Episode #6: Research and development – in the field

The Bayer Cotton Research Facility in Toowoomba is a crucial part of our R&D efforts. Situated in a prime agricultural region, the Toowoomba facility is strategically placed to conduct relevant and impactful research. The facility employs both laboratories and testing fields to trial new products and technologies, under real-world conditions.

The team collaborate with local universities, research institutions, and farming communities to ensure their research addresses practical agricultural challenges. These partnerships also help in the dissemination and adoption of new technologies among Australian farmers.

Show notes

Our host Ed Gannon is joined by Dr Kristen Knight, Facility Lead at the Bayer Toowoomba Research Facility.

• [02:40] Kristin’s path into agricultural entomology and cotton traits.

   

• [04:18] The role of the Toowoomba research facility in Bayer’s R&D efforts.

   

• [05:37] What is Bollgard and how does it work?

   

• [06:57] How does resistance management planning operate at the facility?

   

• [08:40] How is a change in resistance managed?

   

• [09:41] How does a change in resistance impact the development of Bollgard 3?

   

• [14:28] Screening for the cotton pipeline (Bollgard 4) and other crops.

   

• [16:30] How long between new variations of Bollgard has there been, and when can Bollgard 4 be anticipated?

   

• [18:10] The role of farmers in Bayer’s cotton research; regional variations for cotton growing in Australia.

   

• [24:20] What’s on the horizon for cotton traits? What would be the holy grail for cotton trait research?

Guest details

Dr Kristin Knight is an entomologist, working in agriculture – specifically biological controls – for over three decades. Her deep knowledge of cotton traits has been honed in her role as IRM Scientist and Facility Lead at Bayer. Kristin runs the resistance monitoring program for Bollgard 3 Cotton. Her research optimises weed and insect control for cotton growers in Australia, New Zealand and abroad.