First Molecular Biology and Plant Genetics Workshop in West Africa

LMI LAPSE organized a first "Training Workshop in Plant Molecular Biology and Genetics" from 19 to 28 November 2012 in Dakar (Senegal) at the Research Center of Bel Air (IRD / ISRA) and the University Cheik Anta Diop.

Collaboration between French and Senegalese researchers has allowed the organization of this workshop to improve and expand the knowledge of PhD students particularly in molecular physiology and genetics. Twenty-five students from nine countries in West Africa and Central Africa were trained.

The specific objectives were the following ones: i) Review the theoretical bases of molecular biology and genetics in plants, ii) Acquire different techniques in molecular biology and genetics, iii) Discuss the potential uses of these techniques to plant breeding in general and for research students involved in particular. Conferences and TD / TP were provided in the following areas: gene cloning, gene expression analysis, use of molecular markers to characterize the genetic diversity and mapping, computerized data analysis.

This workshop had also for ambition to bring participants together around a network of young scientists conducting research on the adaptation of plants to environmental stresses. Between speakers, scientific committees, organization and teaching, and the students, the event involved more than fifty persons whose trade will initiate new collaborations.