Genomics and Systems Biology

MISSION

Develop and enhance research using state-of the-art technologies in genomics and systems biology for sustainable agriculture

 

ACTION PLANS

Current technology platforms in genomics and systems biology will be deployed to develop products and services for agriculture and agriculture related industries. The research focus of the cluster will be in crop biotechnology, plant and animal health care aspects and novel bio-products.  Research thrust areas of the cluster and its contributions to sustainable agriculture and related industries are illustrated in Figure 1.

Figure 1Specific research groups formed under this cluster are:

Biomolecular Mechanisms and Interactions

  • Sequencing and functionality of tropical parasite and fish genomes

Plant Systems Biology

  • Utilisation of systems biology approaches to understand biosysnthesis of secondary metaboties to increase production of potential compounds

Plant Genomics and Breeding

  • Utilisation of genomic and bioinformatics approaches for the understanding of genes controlling qualitative and quantitative traits of economic value in agriculture and forestry

Marine Functional Genomics

  • Application of functional genomic approaches including functional annotation based on protein networks in biosynthesis of hydro-colloids and anti-fouling marine products

Pathogenic And Industrial Microbe Functionality

  • Understanding of gene functions and protein structures with potential antimicrobial targets and applications in industry. Increase potential of microbes in industrial applications through manipulation of genome and metabolic pathways

Molecular Crop Improvement

  • Isolation and elucidation of function of genes involved in tropical flower and fruit quality. Production of new planting materials through genetic manipulation

Cytotechnology and Cell Development Research

  • Mammalian cell development and application

 

STRATEGIC PLAN

Execution of the action plans of the cluster will be guided by the following strategic plans:

  •  Research and development (R&D) system able to generate knowledge at the frontiers as well as new technologies demanded by the production and services sectors
  • Capacity building:
    • Education system to produce a large pool of skilled workforce in science, technology and other innovative, creative and enterprising professional
    • Continuous skill development
  • Networking and partnerships with research institutes, unversities and industries within and outside the country
  • Acquisition and utilization of platform technologies
  • Development of indigenous technologies
  • Translational activity; technology transfer activity, IP, prototyping
  • Utilization of tropical bioresources

 

CLUSTER LEADER: PROF. DR. WICKNESWARI RATNAM

School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences

Faculty of Science and Technology

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia

43600 Bangi, Selangor

Tel: 603-89213840

Email: wicki@ukm.edu.my