Implementation Team

The Plant Systems Biology (PSB) team investigates molecular and physiological mechanisms that enhance stress tolerance, contributing to climate-resilient agricultural solutions. Dr. Hilde Nelissen's group studies drought-induced growth effects, from early drought signaling to recovery processes, testing crop performance under controlled and field conditions. Dr. Thomas Jacobs’ group specializes in adapting plant genome editing technologies to improve crops for future environmental contexts.

The Sirinka Agricultural Research Center (SARC), part of the Amhara Regional Agricultural Research Institute (ARARI), is one of Ethiopia's oldest and most innovative agricultural research hubs. Located in northeastern Ethiopia, SARC focuses on developing crop varieties adapted to the region’s challenging agroecological conditions, particularly drought-prone areas. Its breeding programs prioritize moisture-stress-tolerant crops like sorghum and chickpea, releasing early-maturing varieties suited to short rainy seasons. SARC also works closely with farming communities through participatory breeding and dissemination efforts, despite challenges such as limited access to modern technologies and capacity constraints.

The Bio and Emerging Technology Institute (BETin) is a government organization established in 2016 to lead biotechnology research and development in Ethiopia. It supports advancements in crop, livestock, and microbial industries, focusing on improving food production and promoting climate-smart agriculture. BETin’s work spans research, capacity building, and outreach, including developing drought-tolerant crops for dryland farming and enhancing Enset processing for food products.