Each objective includes integrated research and extension/outreach [E/O] approaches:
Obj. 1. Develop genomic approaches and tools for cucurbit species.
- Develop genomic and bioinformatic platforms for: genotyping by sequencing (GBS); sequence data processing and analysis; and genotype, phenotype and QTL databases
- Perform GBS analysis of PI collections and core populations of the four species to provide a community resource for genome wide association studies (GWAS) for current and future traits of interest
- Provide access to cucurbit genomics tools and databases via the International Cucurbit Genome Initiative (ICuGI) website, and by genomics and bioinformatics workshops open to all members of the cucurbit scientific and breeding communities
Obj. 2. Perform genomic-assisted breeding to introgress disease resistance into cucurbit cultivars.
- Utilize genomic approaches to map resistance loci for key cucurbit diseases
- Develop and verify molecular markers for efficient trait selection and gene pyramiding
- Introgress resistances into advanced breeding lines
- Provide web-based and face to face information via field trials, extension venues, and scientific meetings regarding breeding materials, markers, and breeding progress
Obj. 3 Perform economic impact analyses of cost of production and disease control and provide readily accessible information to facilitate disease control.
- Define, parameterize, simulate, and validate production variables based on cucurbit production crop budgets
- Use a risk-based simulation model to analyze economic potential of the disease resistant cucurbit cultivars
- Develop a centralized cucurbit disease website, including content in English and Spanish, providing information about diagnostics and links to disease clinics; disease control recommendations; disease alerts and links to forecasting tools
