SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Our objectives are to increase knowledge and understanding of seed diversity, particularly in relation to four key traits: seed maturity (development); seed desiccation tolerance; seed storability; and seed dormancy (germination). These traits have direct relevance to improving the seed conservation practices of seed 'collecting', 'processing', 'storing' and 'monitoring and using'. The group's work is divided into seven themes.

The science and technology team comprises around 20 staff and students based in the UK and a similar number of international PhD students, working in 12 countries, from the USA to China. We have developed a network of seed conservation scientists and technologists, extending to government laboratories, applied institutes and universities in more than 30 countries, with particularly strong connections in Africa and Australia.

Our role is to serve as a nexus between the science and practice of seed conservation, to develop innovative tools for conservation, including models, to effectively supervise students and support visiting scientists, and to have open dialogue with the public, government policy makers, scientists and conservationists.

Contact: Prof. Hugh W. Pritchard or Dr Robin Probert