USDA Request for Proposals- 2012 Borlaug Fellowship ...



Norman E. Borlaug International Agricultural Scienceand Technology Fellowship Program (BORLAUG Fellowship Program)FISCAL YEAR 2016 REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTERESTforEGYPT: Seed Potatoes and Biotechnology Application Deadline: May 30, 2016 Email: Karen.Uetrecht@fas. and BorlaugFellowships@fas.Website: of Federal Domestic Assistance Number (CFDA) – 10.777USDA Funding Opportunity Number: BFP-2016-EGYPT- Seed Potatoes and Biotechnology Table of Contents TOC \h \z \t "Heading1a,1,HEADING 1c,1,Heading 2b,2,Heading 3b,3,Heading 4b,4" Summary Of Award Opportunity PAGEREF _Toc413229556 \h 3Section I: Funding Opportunity Description PAGEREF _Toc413229557 \h 4A.Program Description PAGEREF _Toc413229558 \h 4B.Program Responsibilities Of Host Institutions PAGEREF _Toc413229559 \h 4Section II: Award Information PAGEREF _Toc413229560 \h 8A.Estimate Of Funds PAGEREF _Toc413229561 \h 8B.Start Dates And Performance Periods PAGEREF _Toc413229562 \h 9C.Type Of Award PAGEREF _Toc413229563 \h 9Section III: Eligibility Information PAGEREF _Toc413229564 \h 9A.Eligibility Requirements PAGEREF _Toc413229565 \h 9B.Cost Sharing And Matching Requirements PAGEREF _Toc413229566 \h 9C.Funding Restrictions PAGEREF _Toc413229567 \h 9Section IV: Application And Submission Information PAGEREF _Toc413229568 \h 9A.Address To Request Application Package PAGEREF _Toc413229569 \h 9B.Content And Form Of Application Submission: PAGEREF _Toc413229570 \h 9Host University Administrative Checklist PAGEREF _Toc413229571 \h 11C.Submission Deadlines And Times PAGEREF _Toc413229573 \h 13D.Funding Restrictions PAGEREF _Toc413229574 \h 13Allowable Costs: PAGEREF _Toc413229575 \h 13Unallowable Costs: PAGEREF _Toc413229576 \h 14E.Other Submisssion Requirements PAGEREF _Toc413229577 \h 14Section V: Application Review Information PAGEREF _Toc413229578 \h 14A.Review Criteria PAGEREF _Toc413229579 \h 14B.Review And Selection Process PAGEREF _Toc413229580 \h 15Section VI: Award Administration Information PAGEREF _Toc413229581 \h 15A.Award Notices PAGEREF _Toc413229582 \h 15B.Administrative And National Policy Requirements PAGEREF _Toc413229583 \h 15C.Reporting Requirements: PAGEREF _Toc413229584 \h 15Section VII: Agency Contact PAGEREF _Toc413229585 \h 15Section VIII: Other Information PAGEREF _Toc413229586 \h 16Section IX: Borlaug Fellow Proposal And Research Plan PAGEREF _Toc413229587 \h 17U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTUREFOREIGN AGRICULTURAL SERVICEBORLAUG FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMSummary of Award Opportunity USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is seeking U.S. universities to host English-speaking agricultural scientists from low and middle-income countries under the Norman E. Borlaug International Agricultural Science and Technology Fellowship Program (Borlaug Fellowship Program).? These Fellows have been competitively selected based on research priorities, academic and professional accomplishments, commitment to Borlaug Fellowship Program goals, and leadership qualities. The Fellow’s proposal and research plan appears at the end of this notice. USDA recommends that the program begin in Fall 2016; however, priority should be given to a time that is appropriate for the Fellow’s proposed research topic. The program’s duration should be 12 weeks unless otherwise indicated. ?Each Fellow has a specific research topic.? Here is a summary of the applicants and a brief description of their research topics:Fellow #1 (Male); Egypt; US production and certification system of seed potatoFellow #2 (Male); Egypt; Increasing wheat production through use of salinity tolerant cultivars Fellow #3 (Male); Egypt; Polyploidy induction in Borago officinalis (L.) by colchicine treatments Fellow #4 (Male); Egypt; Development of potato with increased salt and drought toleranceFellow #5 (Male): Egypt; Utilization of genome wide association scan approach to establish association between phenotypic and genetic characters for exploration of quantitative trait loci linked to brown rot disease in some potato varietiesFellow #6 (Male): Egypt; Disease-free seed production through in vitro culture technique.Section IX provides each Fellow’s proposal with background information and research plan. This notice identifies the Borlaug Fellowship Program deadline, legislative authority, eligibility and proposal requirements, funding restrictions, cost share requirements, allowable and unallowable costs, reporting requirements, program purpose and priorities, focus areas and recommended topics, application and submission information, application review, selection and notification process, agency program contact information, and mailing address.Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance: This program is listed in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance under 10.777.AWARD TYPE: Cost Reimbursable Agreement for U.S. Universities Deadline: Applications must be received by May 30, 2016.Legislative Authority: The legislative authority for the Borlaug Fellowship Program is provided in 7 USC 3319J, Pub. L. 95-113, title XIV, §1473G, as added Pub. L. 110-234, title VII, §7139, May 22, 2008, 122 Stat. 1231, and Pub. L. 110-246, §4(a), Title VII, §7139, June 18, 2008, 122 Stat. 1664, 1992. Authority also comes from the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 enacted as Title XIV of the Food and Agriculture Act of 1977, 7 U.S.C. 3319(a), 7 U.S.C. 3318(b). FAS reviews proposed project costs to make certain those costs are reasonable and allowable per applicable federal regulations. This program is subject to the provisions of 2 CFR Part 200, grant, cooperative, joint venture, and cost-reimbursable agreement recipients/cooperators (including, universities, non-profits, States, Cities/Counties, Tribes, for-profits, and foreign organizations) are subject to Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations and other legal requirements, including, but not limited to: 2 CFR Part 25, Universal Identifier and Central Contractor Registration2 CFR Part 170, Reporting Subaward and Executive Compensation Information2 CFR Part 175, Award Term for Trafficking in Persons2 CFR Part 180 and Part 417, OMB Guidelines to Agencies on Government wide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement)2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, as adopted by USDA through 2 CFR part 400. University indirect costs for cost reimbursable agreements are limited to 10% of direct costs (7 USC 3319a).Section I: Funding Opportunity Description PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONThe Norman E. Borlaug International Agricultural Science and Technology Fellowship Program promotes food security and economic growth by increasing scientific knowledge and collaborative research to improve agricultural productivity.? This program targets promising, early- to mid-career, English-speaking scientists and policymakers from developing or middle-income countries. Fellows spend 8-12 weeks in the United States and work one-on-one with U.S. scientists in their field.? Mentors coordinate the Fellows’ training, and they visit the Fellows’ countries for 5-10 days within 6-12 months after completion of the training in the U.S. to continue collaborative efforts.During the program, the Fellows learn new research techniques, gain exposure to the latest scientific developments in various fields of agriculture, access fully-equipped laboratories and libraries, and learn about unique public-private partnerships that help fund agricultural research and science.? Equally important, this program provides international scientists and policymakers with opportunities to establish long-term contacts with U.S. scientists and to apply newly gained knowledge from U.S. institutions to their country's research and development programs.? PROGRAM Responsibilities OF HOST INSTITUTIONSAssignment of a Principal Investigator (Training Coordinator)The host institution will designate a contact person as the Principal Investigator (PI) responsible for coordinating all administrative and programmatic arrangements. Assignment of a MentorA key component of the program is matching the Fellow with a mentor. The host institution will select an appropriate mentor for one-on-one work with the Fellow for the duration of the program.Mentor RolesThe mentor will establish a professional relationship, providing guidance and training in the Fellow’s research and studies.The mentor will work with the Fellow before arrival to discuss appropriate work plan, site visits, and other arrangements. A work plan should be agreed upon and finalized no later than 2 weeks after the program start date.The mentor will provide draft of work plan through the PI to USDA/FAS for consultation and approval approximately 2 weeks before the commencement of the program.The mentor agrees to commit a significant amount of time each week for one-on-one work with the Fellow during the program.The mentor will continue communicating with the Fellow beyond the end of the program in the U.S. through the mentor visit. Mentor will submit quarterly progress reports that indicate all program activities conducted (form SF-PPR).The mentor may assign other faculty members to assist with Fellow’s training and research activities.Mentor may not be assigned to multiple Fellows during the same time frame.Mentor Follow-up VisitThe mentor visit is an essential and unique part of the Borlaug Fellowship Program. The reciprocal visit is required, not optional.The mentor will work with the Fellow to plan a follow-up visit to the Fellow’s home country. The trip should occur within 6 months to 1 year after the program ends.The PI should provide USDA/FAS with an agenda for mentor’s travel, including goals and objectives.The PI must consult with USDA/FAS prior to finalizing plans or purchasing plane tickets for the reciprocal visit. Mentor’s travel information must be provided for emergency contact purposes and country clearance (if required by the FAS Overseas Office).The mentor will provide a trip report highlighting the trip’s activities and results through the PI to USDA/FAS within 30 days after the visit.The mentor should plan to meet with the USDA/FAS Attaché or staff from the U.S. Embassy while they are traveling, if feasable. USDA/FAS can assist with coordination prior to the trip.VisaUSDA/FAS will provide a DS-2019 for the Fellow to request and obtain a J-1 Visa. USDA/FAS will provide instructions to the Fellow regarding the application process, the amount of lead-time needed, and any paperwork required. The visa start and end date will be coordinated with the host institution who will be responsible for purchasing round trip plane tickets for the fellow to come to the U.S. for his or her program.Travel and TransportationThe host institution must comply with the Federal Travel Regulations (41 CFR 300 et seq.).The host institution will provide round trip, economy class, international airfare from the Fellow’s home to the university. The host institution is responsible for arranging and purchasing all domestic travel related to the Fellow’s training program.The host institution will provide housing for the Fellow for the duration of the training program, taking into account gender and cultural norms.The host institution will pay lodging fees directly. The host institution will not require the Fellow to pay for his or her lodging expenses, whether through reimbursement or advance payment.Lodging will include a private bedroom, private or shared bathroom, access to a laundry room, and access to a kitchen with pots, pans, and utensils.Basic necessities, such as sheets, towels, and cleaning supplies (if not already provided), will be provided for Fellow’s use. The Fellow should not have to pay for these items.Lodging will be within walking distance to the campus/training location or easily accessible by public transportation.If public transportation is required to access campus/training location, the host institution will provide the Fellow with a bus pass or proper allowance for transportation expenses.When planning lodging options, the host institution should check with the Fellow and account for any special dietary restrictions or preferences.Meals and Incidentals (M&IE)The host institution will provide each Fellow with meal and living allowances for the duration of stay.Daily M&IE allowance shall be calculated based on current GSA per diem rates. The host institution can determine the frequency of per diem allotments, but the Fellow must receive per diem within the first week of the Fellowship. The PI must inform the Fellow and USDA/FAS immediately if this cannot be accommodated.Emergency Health InsuranceThe host institution will purchase emergency health insurance for the Fellow for the duration of stay, as required for all J1 Visa holders (22 CFR 62.14). The Fellow will not be required to purchase his or her health insurance and then be reimbursed.The host institution will educate the Fellow as to what is covered under health insurance policy, especially highlighting that pre-existing medical conditions are not covered.The host institution will alert USDA/FAS staff if any health/medical conditions arise during the municationThe host institution will initiate contact with the Fellow as soon as possible.The host institution will develop the training program in consultation with USDA/FAS and the Fellow.The host institution will keep USDA/FAS informed regarding any logistical or program planning.The host institution will notify USDA/FAS immediately upon Fellow’s physical arrival and departure from the U.S.The host institution will provide USDA/FAS with the Fellow’s temporary U.S. address and phone number, and emergency contact numbers for the PI, mentor, or other appropriate institution personnel. This information is required so that Fellow can be reached in the event of an emergency.Fellowship ProgramThe host institution will provide educational materials and supplies to each Fellow necessary for their full participation in the fellowship.The host institution will pay for all fees related to the Fellow’s training program, such as (but not limited to) technology fees, administrative fees, laboratory fees, etc.The host institution will arrange relevant field visits to a local farm, processing plant, private industry, or other related industry as applicable to the Fellow’s training program.The host institution will ensure the Fellow submits an interim and final report (2-3 pages each) to USDA/FAS before the Fellow leaves the United States. USDA/FAS will provide a report template.OrientationThe PI/Training Coordinator will communicate directly with the Fellow at least 4-8 weeks before his or her arrival in the U.S. to ensure that all pertinent information is provided, including:Name and contact information of PI/Training CoordinatorName and contact information of mentorInstitution information, weather information, and clothing needsHousing and M&IE allowanceProgram plan and anticipated site visitsProfessional development expectationsReminder to bring any necessary prescription medicationsExplain what is and is not covered under emergency health insurance policy (e.g. no pre-existing conditions, no dental, etc.)Institution will provide an orientation upon the Fellow’s arrival to acquaint them with campus and community resources:Explain and demonstrate local bus/transportation optionsExplain cultural and legal expectationsUSDA will provide a welcome and orientation packet for mentorsProgress ReportsThe Principal Investigator or Mentor will submit quarterly progress reports. The Principal Investigator or Mentor will use Performance Progress Report (SF-PPR) to submit quarterly progress reports.The Principal Investigator or Mentor will submit a final report to USDA/FAS within 30 days after the Mentor visit. USDA/FAS will provide additional guidance and a template for the final report.Reports should include the following: Summary of activities, accomplishments, and any problems encountered or overcomePhotographs, when possibleCompleted program evaluations and action planAn invoice cannot be paid if a progress report is past due, and will not be paid until the required report has been received.Financial ReportingFinancial reports will follow the Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Agreements, 2 CFR 215. Invoices will use the Request for Advance or Reimbursement (SF-270).Invoices will be submitted electronically to SF-270InvoicesMailbox@fas. and copied to the USDA/FAS program manager and USD/FAS program assistant.A summary of expenses that aligns expense totals to the agreement’s budget line items must be included.A detailed breakdown of expenses must be included with SF-270. Payment will not be processed without supporting documentation.A final invoice must be submitted within 90 days of the end of the period of performance for the agreement.Costs must be reported in accordance with the regulations that govern the agreement, and must follow the applicable Federal cost principles 2 CFR 200. The institution cannot be reimbursed for costs that are contrary to the specific terms of the agreement or are outside its scope. A Federal Financial Report (SF-425) must be submitted quarterly and within 90 days of the end of the period of performance for the agreement. An invoice cannot be paid if a financial report is past due, and it will not be paid until the required report has been received.Section II: Award InformationESTIMATE OF FUNDS Awards are anticipated to range from $25,000 to $40,000 per fellowship. USDA Foreign Agricultural Service will fund agreements for the Borlaug Fellowship Program. For more information on the Borlaug Program, please visit our website at: DATES AND PERFORMANCE PERIODS Activities pursuant to this REI will be for a 2 year period. The estimated start date is on or about July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2018. Fellowships will begin between September 2016 and August 2017, depending on appropriate timing for activities to occur based on any seasonal needs for the program.TYPE OF AWARD USDA will enter into a cost reimbursable agreement (7 CFR 3319a) with State cooperative institutions or other colleges or universities Program staff will maintain involvement in the administration of the Borlaug Fellowship Program. Section III: Eligibility InformationELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTSProposals may be received from U.S. state cooperative institutions or other colleges and universities and minority serving institutions (MSIs). Proposals from smaller academic institutions, MSIs (in particular American Indian, Alaska Native, Pacific Islander, Hispanic, Asian American, and African American institutions) are especially encouraged to apply.A proposal from a consortium of organizations must be submitted as a single proposal with one U.S. institution serving as the lead and all other organizations as team members, when applicable. An individual mentor must be identified for each Borlaug Fellow. A single mentor may not host two fellows simultaneously. The Principal Investigator (PI) and mentor must hold a position at an eligible U.S. institution.COST SHARING AND MATCHING REQUIREMENTSThis program has no statutory formula.This program has no matching requirements. FUNDING RESTRICTIONSThis is a cost reimbursable agreement issued under 7 U.S.C. 3319a.Section IV: Application and Submission InformationADDRESS TO REQUEST APPLICATION PACKAGEThis announcement contains all instructions and links to all forms required to complete the application. All applications must be submitted in a single PDF document. The application deadline is June 3, 2016. No mailed or facsimile submissions will be accepted.CONTENT AND FORM OF APPLICATION SUBMISSION:Institutions may submit proposals to host more than one Borlaug Fellow. Institutions interested in hosting one or more Fellows should submit a proposal following the guidelines below: Complete SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance for a single Borlaug Fellow. USDA/FAS cannot accept applications for multiple fellows in a single application.Indicate the name of the institution applying to host the Fellows.Indicate the country, research interest, and reference number.Identify a Primary Investigator.Identify a Mentor. A Mentor may not be assigned to multiple Fellows who are in the U.S. at the same time.Provide a tentative research plan based on the Fellow’s research proposal and action plan, including topics covered, field visits, and other activities.Include a narrative description of the proposed fellowship, how it will be administered, and the role of the university faculty and support staff.Provide a summary of relevant institutional capabilities for hosting international scientists and policymakers in the proposed field.Briefly describe the research expertise and international experience of the mentor in the Fellow’s field of interest.Provide a one to two page curriculum vitae for the mentor and other collaborating researchers involved in the proposed program.Identify the expected skills or knowledge to be acquired by the Fellow at the end of the programProvide a program budget using Standard Form -424A- Budget Information Non Construction Programs, including a detailed budget worksheet (see page 12). Provide a budget narrative. All line items should be described in sufficient detail to enable FAS to determine that the costs are reasonable and allowable for the project in accordance with federal regulations. If attendance at the World Food Prize in Des Moines, Iowa during October 2016 is feasible, then the Fellowship may be extended one additional week, not to exceed 13 weeks, to ensure the Fellow receives up to 12 weeks of training.If attending the World Food Prize, the budget should include time and funding for the Fellow and Mentor to attend. An adjustment to the Fellow’s M&IE must be made for the time spent in plete AD-3030, Representations Regarding Felony Conviction and Tax Delinquent Status for Corporate plete AD-3031, Assurance Regarding Felony Conviction or Tax Delinquent Status for Corporate ApplicantsComplete the Host University Administrative Checklist on university administrative policiesSubmit all application materials as attachments to a single email. The primary document submitted in response to this REI with all information requested should be titled Statement of Work. Include all application information that is not a specific form in a single PDF document. Successful applicants will be required to submit all relevant national certifications and compliance documents prior to awards being issued.Host University Administrative ChecklistPlease complete the following checklist concerning the university’s policies on providing per diem funds to exchange visitors. This information is for USDA internal use only and does not determine your eligibility to serve as a host institution. Host University PoliciesYESNOWill the mentor listed in the proposal be present for the majority of the fellowship? Will the mentor be able to spend time meeting with fellow individually each week?Will the university be able to provide per diem within the first week of the Fellow’s arrival?Will the university be able to provide fully furnished lodging with kitchen facilities?Does the university withhold federal tax on the participants’ per diem and housing?* If so, you must list this expense as a separate line item on the budget.*Note that Borlaug Fellows (as trainees, not students) are considered EXEMPT INDIVIDUALS under the IRS Substantial Presence Test for tax purposes. The exemption falls under one or both of the following categories: either the Foreign Government-Related Individuals standard or the Closer Connection Exception. The only requirement is to complete IRS Form 8843 (Sections 1 and 2). No taxes should be withheld from Borlaug Fellows since they are exempt.Budget WorksheetHost Institution: Estimated Dates: REI#/Country/Fellow#SF-424 CategoryLine ItemsRateDaysSubtotalFellow's Logistical ExpensesTRAVEL/Housing1. LodgingTRAVEL2. Meals and IncidentalsOTHER3. Federal TaxTRAVEL4. Medical Insurance TRAVEL6. Local Transportation TRAVEL7. Airfare - International TRAVEL8. Airfare - Domestic (If Applicable) SubtotalFellow's Professional DevelopmentTRAVEL1. Field Tours SUPPLIES2. Educational Materials and IT Expenses SUPPLIES3. Shipping MaterialsSubtotalHost Institution FeesPERSONNEL 1. Training Coordinator (Salary)FRINGE BENEFITS1.b. Training Coordinator (Fringe Benefits)PERSONNEL2. Mentor FeeFRINGE BENEFITS2.b. Mentor (Fringe Benefits)SUPPLIES3. Laboratory ExpensesSubtotalWorld Food Prize Symposium (Oct. 2016; If Applicable)TRAVEL1. Domestic Transportation TRAVEL2. Lodging OTHER3. Conference Fee SubtotalMentor Follow up Activity (5-10 Days) TRAVEL1. Mentor Airfare – InternationalTRAVEL2. Mentor Domestic In-Country Travel (If Applicable)TRAVEL3. LodgingTRAVEL4. Meals & IncidentalsSUPPLIES5. Supplies for Trainings/WorkshopsSubtotalTotal Program CostsINDIRECTIndirect Costs/Overhead (10%)Total RequestSUBMISSION DEADLINES and TIMES Submit all application materials in a single email. The following forms are required: SF-424, SF-424A, AD-3030, and AD-3031. Include all application information that is not a specific form in a single PDF document. Funding opportunities will be advertised via the USDA/NIFA listserv. All proposals must be submitted to the email address below with all required forms. Karen.Uetrecht@fas. Borlaug Fellowship Program Email: BorlaugFellowships@fas. FUNDING RESTRICTIONSAllowable Costs: To help in this review and to expedite the award process, budgets must include a narrative detailing all line items. The categories listed below are examples of some of the more common items found in project budgets. All items should be described in sufficient detail that would enable FAS to determine that the costs are reasonable and allowable for the project per federal regulations. 1. Salaries and Fringe Benefits: Requested funds may be allocated toward salaries, fringe benefits, or the combination thereof. No more than 20% of the requested funds may be allocated toward salaries, consultant fees, fringe benefits, or the combination thereof. Only individuals that hold positions at eligible U.S. institutions should be listed in this category. 2. Travel: For domestic travel, provide the purpose of the travel and information used in calculating the estimated cost, such as the destination, number of travelers, and estimated cost per trip. There are several restrictions associated with traveling on federal funds. In most cases, airfare must be purchased in economy class from a U.S. carrier. Travelers must also adhere to federally mandated domestic per diem guidelines. Additional information may be found in the circulars listed in the “Legislative Authority” section of this announcement. 3. Supplies:All personal property excluding equipment, intangible property, and debt instruments as defined in this section.4. Other Direct Costs: Other Direct Costs are those anticipated charges not included in other budget categories, including materials and supplies, lab fees, publication costs, reasonable consultant fees, computer services, sub-awards (the level of detail required for the sub-award budget is the same as the recipient organization), equipment rental, facility rental, conferences and meetings, speaker fees, honorariums.5. Indirect Costs: Indirect Costs may not exceed 10% of direct costs. 6. Tax Withholding: Borlaug Fellows (as trainees, not students) are considered EXEMPT INDIVIDUALS under the IRS Substantial Presence Test for tax purposes. The exemption falls under one or both of the following categories: either the Foreign Government-Related Individuals standard or the Closer Connection Exception. Tax treaties might also exist between the U.S. and the Fellow’s home country. The only requirement is to complete IRS Form 8843 (Sections 1 and 2). No taxes should be withheld from Borlaug Fellows since they are exempt.Unallowable Costs: General purpose equipment (no particular scientific, technical, or programmatic purpose) and scientific equipment exceeding $5,000 or more; entertainment; capital improvements; thank you gifts, and other expenses not directly related to the project are not allowed. OTHER SUBMISSSION REQUIREMENTSAll applications must be submitted electronically as indicated above.Section V: Application Review InformationAll proposals are carefully reviewed by USDA/FAS Program Officers and other FAS staff against the criteria listed below, including others who are experts in a particular field, as appropriate.REVIEW CRITERIATechnical Expertise and Experience (40 points): Mentor must have appropriate technical background to provide the desired, advanced training. If necessary, other appropriate collaborating scientists should be identified to meet any of the objectives which the mentor cannot address. Mentor’s experience and knowledge of relevant agricultural conditions within the Fellow’s country or a similar location will be considered as appropriate. Overall Program (35 points): The overall program plan and design should be relevant to the Fellow’s objectives background. The program plan should be thorough, and it should help achieve the desired post-program deliverables and the Fellow’s research goals and objectives. Relevant agricultural practices within the region of the university will be considered as appropriate. Relevant university resources should be identified. Additional resources/organizations should be identified as appropriate. Site visits and meetings should be meaningful to the content of the program, if included.Budget (25 points): The proposed budget should be appropriate for the length of the program. The budget should include appropriate cost savings where available. Salary and fringe benefits expenses should not be excessive.REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESSOther factors may also be taken into consideration such as regional diversity and MSI status in the review process. After review by appropriate offices, it is expected that all applicants will be notified within 2 months after the closing date for applications.Section VI: Award Administration InformationAWARD NOTICESApplicants should expect to be contacted by program staff for clarification and additional discussion on any budget related issues before final determination of successful applicants. Any notification by the program office regarding the selection of an institution is not an authorization to begin performance. No pre-award costs can be charged. The notice of award signed by the Deputy Administrator of USDA/FAS/OCBD is the authorizing document. This document will be sent by electronic mail to the university. Both parties must sign this document before the agreement is in force. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified of the status of their application by email.ADMINISTRATIVE AND NATIONAL POLICY REQUIREMENTSCertifications regarding debarment Suspension, Drug Free Workplace, Felony Conviction and Tax Delinquent Status, and other national administrative assurances and policies are required. The cooperator must adhere to administrative requirements, cost principles, and audit requirements as contained in 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards.REPORTING REQUIREMENTS: Primary Investigators are required to submit mid-term and final Fellow’s performance reports on the U.S. portion of the Borlaug Fellowship. A final mentor’s visit report including a final evaluation should be submitted no later than 30 days after the completion of the mentor visit. Financial reports will use SF-425.Progress Reports will use SF-PPR.Invoices will use SF-270.Section VII: Agency ContactApplicants can direct questions or request help before the deadline for submission of the application for these funding opportunities via the contact information below:Borlaug Fellowship General Email: BorlaugFellowships@fas.Borlaug Africa: Karen Uetrecht, (202) 690-3359 or Karen.Uetrecht@fas.Borlaug Asia/Latin America: Sarah Librea, (202) 720-2018 or Sarah.Librea@fas.Section VIII: Other InformationThe USDA Borlaug Fellowship Program began in 2004. More than 750 Fellows from 64 countries have been trained to date. Additional program information is available at Requests for Expressions of interest will be distributed by region and topic including: Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, North Africa, East/ Sub-Saharan Africa. This will be posted on the NIFA listserv.Section IX: Borlaug Fellow Proposal and Research PlanNo. CountryProposal SummaryFellow 1EgyptTo understand the US production system and certification scheme of seed potatoFellow 2EgyptIncrease wheat production through producing salinity tolerant cultivars by identifing molecular marks and physiological traits associated with salt tolerance to be useful in wheat breeding .Fellow 3EgyptPloyploidy in Borago officinalis (L.)Fellow 4EgyptIdentification of Drought and Salinity Tolerant Germplasm in Potatoes.Fellow 5EgyptUtilization of genome wide association scan approach to establish association between phenotypic and genetic characters for exploration of quantitative trait loci linked to brown rot disease in some potato varieties.Fellow 6EgyptDisease-free seed production through in vitro culture technique.Fellow #1 (Male); Egypt; US production and certification system of seed potatoGoal: To understand the US production system and certification scheme of seed potato.The global demand for food puts a stress on our limited natural resources and pushes them to the exhausting edges. One of the consequences of global increase in human population is the need to double the main crops production by 2050 (Tilman et al., 2011), which will require an average yield increase of 2.4% per year for the major crops (Ray et al., 2012). Egypt is not an exception. The gap in food production is increasing annually, and some national development plans have suggested culturing more land in the desert, but that is challenged by limitation in water resources (Salama, 1992; Amin, 2013). Alternative proposed plan in to increase crops productivity and minimised losses due to pests (Oerke, 2006) . That can be only attained when crop productivity arrives at the crop yield potential (Yp), which is defined as the maximum attainable yield per unit land area that can be achieved by a particular crop cultivar in an environment to which it is adapted when pests and diseases are effectively controlled and nutrients are non-limiting (Arnold, 1994). Pest damage account for about 20% of crop losses in Egypt, which could have secured food for millions of people. Moreover, invasive pests are representing the highest risk for crop damage and moreover for increasing risks in agriculture production business. Egypt is a major exporter of potato with total annual production 4.8 million tons (FAOSTAT 2014) and annual exports on 2013/2014 season exceeded 650,000 tons, with increasing markets for Egyptian potato in Russia, EU, and Arab countries. Potato production is representing a very promising field of development, and potato as a cash crop can cover major part of finances for food security. Although that, potato crop management system in Egypt still has a potential to improve the potato crop yield in Egypt. The average yield for potato crop in Egypt 27 ton/Ha which is less than the European average 30 ton/Ha and much less than US average yield 46 ton/Ha. Good Agriculture Practices GAP usually starts with the selection of high quality seeds. And as Egypt does not have national production of potato seeds, importations of them is the main revenue of seeds for potato crop production. Traditionally, Egypt relies mainly on potato seeds imported from Netherlands and Scotland. Till 2012, Egypt was obliged to export table potato to EU produced only in Pest Free Areas PFA from certified imported EU potato seeds. Upon fruitful negotiations with EU, Egypt currently can export table potato to EU produced in PFA from certified seed potato from any origin. Egypt authorities have considered that as a major achievement that will remove any obstacles toward free trade of potato seeds in Egypt. But according to general inexperience of potato seeds from origins other than EU, most of potato growers and accordingly potato seeds importers, production systems – such as the US – are still challenged to find a way in the market. The main three concerns that potato growers raise usually are: suitability of those varieties for Egyptian environmental conditions and possibility of inadaptability and therefore, lower yield; general acceptance of those potato varieties in EU and Russia as the main destinations for Egyptian exports of table potato; and lastly the alien pests that could be introduced on imported seeds.Problem definitionThe Egyptian market of seed potato is dominated by imports from EU, which commonly show advantages over new origin; familiarity of certification and production system, understanding the particularities of consumers preferences from EU potato varieties, experience of required agriculture practices for European varieties cultivation, convenience of trading and logistics systems because of long history of trading potato seeds between Egypt and EU, and government officials concerns about alien pests have received comprehensive explanationand SPS regulations were settled.Research Action PlanObjective: Production and certification systemActivities? Seminars and suggested readings? Meetings with representatives of inspection, laboratory, and seed growers? Field visits to main seed production areasTime frame Week 1&6&10&12OutcomesUnderstanding:? The regulations and requirements? Field inspection and laboratory testing? Role of governmental bodies? Responsibilities of seed growersObjectiveCharacteristics of US varietiesActivities7 of 10? Seminars and suggested readings? Meetings with representatives of breeders, growers, retail chain, and consumer organisations? Visits to cold stores, potato processing industry, and supermarketsTime frame Week 2&3OutcomesUnderstanding:? The preferences of US consumers in comparison to Egyptian and EU consumersObjectiveRequirements for cultivation and optimising productivityActivities? Seminars and suggested readings? Meetings with representatives of potato growers? Visits to potato production areasTime frame Week 1&6&10&12OutcomesUnderstanding:? The potato agriculture system in US? The main input componentsObjectiveImportation procedures and estimated costs for importing US seed potatoActivities? Seminars and suggested readings? Meetings with representatives of seed potato US exporters, logistics officers, SPS inspectors at harbours, laboratory diagnosticsspecialists, and exporting specialists.? Visits to harbours and exportations facilitiesTime frame Week 4&5&9&11OutcomesUnderstanding:? The regular steps for importing US seed potato? The role of governmental bodies in exporting high quality, pest-free potato seeds.? Responsibilities of exporters? Estimates of costs and pricesObjective: Requirements for SPS measurements and risk management of potential invasive pestsActivities? Seminars and suggested readings? Meetings with representatives of SPS inspectors at harbours, and laboratory diagnostics specialists, and pest risk management experts.Time frame Week 7&8&9Outcomes: Understanding the potential pest risks and possible phytosanitary measurements.Fellow #2 (Male); Egypt; Increase wheat production through producing salinity tolerant cultivars by identifing molecular marks and physiological traits associated with salt tolerance to be useful in wheat breeding .The goal of my research is to increase wheat production through producing salinity tolerant cultivars by application of the followingapproaches:1- Identify molecular markers associated with salt tolerance to be useful in wheat breeding programs using SSR.2- Identify biochemical genetic markers associated with salt tolerance using SDS-PAEG.3- Identify physiological traits that related with salt tolerance to be useful in wheat breeding4- Determine the productivity of the best genotypes with salt tolerance.Being the stable food bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the most important cereal crop in Egypt as well as in the world. It supplies nearly 55% of the carbohydrates consumed worldwide. Soil salinity is one of the principal a biotic factors affecting crop yields in arid and semiarid irrigated areas. Wheat is commonly classified as a moderately salt tolerant crop (Mass and Hoffman, 1977). The threshold value for wheat is about 7 dS/m corresponding to 4480 mg/l. Salt tolerance in wheat is mostly related to enhance ability to discriminate between K and Na during transport of these ions to the shoot (Gorham, 1990). Salty soils are a major problem because if sodium starts to build up in the leaves it will affect important processes such as photosynthesis, which is critical to the plant’s success,” Dr Gilliham said.Almost three quarters of the surface of the earth is covered by salt water and so it is not surprising that salts affect a significant proportion of the world’s land surface. In Egypt there are about two million feddans of the irrigated land adversely affected by the accumulation of salts. The traditional phenotype selection which is currently used in Egypt is time consuming, expensive and applied only to traits that can measured phenotypically.In contrast, the new genotype selection, that used in advanced countries and depends on identification of genes controlling superior traits, is more accurate, quicker, and can be applied for a wide range of traits. To date, there are fewer reports of genes or QTL identified for salinity tolerance in wheat. Therefore, the present study will be focused on QTL mapping and physiological traits of salt tolerance in some Egyptian genotypes of wheat. This research will allow us to develop functional markers associated with salt tolerance and is a part of a long-term strategy to produce new higher-yeilding cultivars, including tolerant genes to salt in wheat.General Overview of Research Area and LiteratureSalinity is one of the main problems that negatively affect soil fertility and limit plant production (Richards, 1954). In Egypt there are about two million feddans of the irrigated land adversely affected by the accumulation of salts. This environmental stress is a complex trait controlled by a large number of genes which make them elusive to selection for tolerant by conventional breeding programs (Abo-Eleninet al., 1981).The development of new wheat tolerant of biotic and a biotic stress (especially salt stress) is an essential plant of the continued improvement of the crop.The salt-tolerant gene works by excluding sodium from the leaves. It produces a protein that removes the sodium from the cells lining the xylem, which are the pipes plants use to move water from their roots to their leaves..Marker assisted breeding can offer an efficient and rapid mean to identify and incorporate adapted germplasm into Egyptian cultivars (Bendary 2000). Using Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS) requires detailed information on the plant genome. A basic pre-requisite for any molecular breeding program is a robust set of polymorphic markers for the species under investigation. Among the different marker systems available and more popular is Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs) (Tautz and Rentz, 1984). (Dubcovsky et al. 1996) concluded that QTLs were detected on chromosomes 2B, 2D, 3D, 4B, 4D, 6D, 7A and 7D that were significantly associated with sodium exclusion. Of these, only the chromosome 4D region has previously been reported as associated with sodium exclusion in bread wheat and thereby contributing to salt tolerance.Bennett and Khush (2003) developed an integrated program to develop salt tolerant crops, based on a detailed physiological, biochemical and molecular understanding of the impact of salt on growth and reproduction. They argued that the G x E for individual mechanisms should be simpler to understand than for tolerance as a whole. Li et al., (2007) mapped a large number of Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) for drought and salinity tolerance related traits including physiological and biochemical traits such as osmotic adjustment capacity, proline content, stomatal conductance, water-soluble carbohy.Methodology ? Biochemical and genetic studies: using electrophoresis analysis for proteins and other related enzymes and /or antioxidant to study the genetic diversity of these wheat genotypes including physiological /biochemical traits such as Chlorophyll fluorescence, osmotic adjustment capacity, proline content, stomatal conductance, water soluble carbohydrates, relative water content, leaf turgor, ABA content, transpiration efficiency, water use efficiency and carbon isotope discrimination; and developmental/ morphological traits such as height, leaf emergence,leaf area index, tiller development, flowering time, maturity rate and root characteristics.? Molecular genetic markers: to find some molecular markers can offer an efficient and rapid indication to identify Egyptian genotypes and how they are diverse?, total protein of the these genotypes will analyzes using SDS–PAGE and Select some important genotypes from all the experiments and use molecular genetic markers such as RAPD or SSR.? Genetic materials preservation after final experiments: to identify the superior genotypes from Egyptian genotypes in desired characters, Understand the genetic basis of key agronomic traits for the development of molecular markers and studying QTL analysis to discover agronomically usefulThis research will be allowed us to address several important questions. What are genes that associated with salt tolerance? What specialized functions for salt tolerance? And what is the best genotype for salt tolerance which could be useful to improve the Egyptian wheat? so this information leads to breading wheat under salt soils in Egypy, thus enhance agriculture productivity and food security in EgyptResearch Action PlanWeek 1: lecture on breeding wheat for salt tolerance and the most important steps that must be followed in salinity breeding program.Week 2: lecture on physiology and anatomy for wheat affected by salinityWeek 3: field visit to some of the land affected by salinity and see plants affected by salinityWeek 4: identify the devices used in the estimation of soil salinity and plants and training for itWeek 5: Identify molecular markers associated with salt tolerance to be useful in wheat breedingprograms using SSR. Identify biochemical genetic markers associated with salt tolerance using SDS PAEG? Week 6: training on estimate physiological /biochemical traits such as Chlorophyllfluorescence, osmotic adjustment capacity, proline content, stomatal conductance, water soluble carbohydrates, relative water content, leaf turgor, ABA content, transpiration efficiency, water use efficiency and carbon isotope discrimination; and developmental/ morphological traits such as height, leaf emergence, leaf area index, tiller development, flowering time, maturity rate and root characteristics Fellow #3 (Male);Egypt; ployploidy in Borago officinalis (L.)The goal of my research is to induce ployploidy in Borago officinalis (L.) by colchicine treatments. Specific objectives of this project are to 1) Treat Borage seeds with different colchicine concentration to induce tetraploid Borage with doubled gene dosage; 2) Isolate solid, stable tetraploid Borage plants; 3) Characterize the morphological changes in tetraploid Borage vs.diploid Borage; 4) and determine the nuclear DNA content of newly induced tetraploid Borage.Seeds of Borage (Borago officinalis L.) contains 16 volatile compounds in the seed oil of Borago officinalis , among others: β-caryophyllene (26%), p-cymene-8-ol (19.7%), small amounts of nonadecane (0.7%) and hexanol (0.7%). There are also large amounts of oil monoterpens(17.2%) and sesquiterpenes (26%). In addition, fatty acids have been isolated such as: γ-linolenic acid (10–28%), linoleic acid (35–40%) and α-linolenic acid (4–5%). The plant has a great medicinal importance as follows γ--linolenic acid, this compound has important therapeuticproperties and has been used in medical tests to treat rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, and psoriasis with good therapeutical results.Also, The results of some studies indicate that Borago officinalis L. is commonly used adjunctively in disorders of the respiratory system, urinary tract,arthritis and skin problems. Biologically active compounds found in borage oil are used as additives in the treatment of atherosclerosis, as well as in the regulation of certain metabolic processes.so the aim of this study was to find a suitable level of colchicine that would effectivelyinduce maximum polyploids and determine if chemically induced tetraploids were stable and high production of secondary metabolites which has a great medicinal value.I hope to finish a good part from this work , such as chromosome number, phenotypic evaluation, ploidy level determination , genome size, stomata size , pollen viability number, pollen size. When I was in Florida university I have learned many cytological and molecular biological skills, including tetraploid induction and identification, ploidy analysis, DNA content and genome size determination, chromosome squashing, microscopy and DNA isolation. I will work under my mentor supervision in the laboratory, greenhouses, or the field to accomplish my work. Borlaug Fellowship program can contribute in increasing agricultural productivity by supporting scientific projects in plant breeding to enhance plant resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses also, making a lot of fellowship programs for Egyptian researchers to benefit more from American experts.Research Action Plan1-From 1st to 2st week: Induction of tetraploid Borage with doubled gene dosage as follows, 100 seed for each treatment, with three replications, will be soaked in various concentration of colchicine (Sigma-Aldrich, St. Luis, Mo.) aqueous solutions (0, 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2 (w/v)pH=6) and 2% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and Tween 20? as a surfactant, at room temperature on a shaker at 150 r.p.m. for the periods of 6,12, 24 and 36 h. Then the treated seeds will be rinsed thoroughly with distilled water and planted carefully in the seedling pots filled with amixture of one part mold leaf and one part sand and one part loam soil in greenhouse under normal condition (16 h light period, temperature 25-27 °C and humidity 65% and 60% sun light).2- From 2nd to 5th week: Ploidy analysis, Chromosome number determination to determine tetraploid Borage plants3-From 4h to 6th week :Phenotypic evaluation of diploid and tetraploid Borage (Leaf area, Leaf thickness number of leaves and stem length)4-from 6th to 10th: Determine the DNA content of tetraploid Borage (Flow cytometry (FCM)5-From 10th to 12th :Perform pollinations to obtain seeds from tetraploid Borage (Emasculation and hybridization)Fellow #4 (Male); Egypt; Identification of Drought and Salinity Tolerant Germplasm in PotatoesThe goal of my research is to the development of potato with increased salt and drought tolerance. By 2050 the world human population is projected to reach 9.2 billion from its current 6.8 billion. Projected population growth rates for the next 30 years will require an increase in food production equal to 20% in developed countries and 60% in developing countries to maintain present levels of food consumption. It is estimated that >40% of the arable land in the world is found in arid and semi-arid lands and >7% of arable land is affected by excess salt, irrigation use increased 300%, which inevitably leads to the salinization of soils and water bodies. In the United States yield reductions due to salinity occur on an estimated 30% of all irrigated land. World wide, crop production is limited by the effects of salinity on about 50% of the irrigated land area. Human, industry and agricultural production now compete for limited fresh water resources, and this is likely to continue into the future and become more problematic. The development of crops with increased salt tolerance is important to facilitate the use of saline water for irrigation and crop production.Potatoes produce more per unit growing area than any other crop. However, potatoes are sensitive to both salinity and drought stress. A positive relationship between root biomass and salinity tolerance and drought stress has been reported. Field trial evaluations of potato germplasm for salinity and drought tolerance are complicated by the uneven distribution of these factors within a field and across the growing season. Various salinity and/or drought treatment methodologies involving potted plants in greenhouses or growth chambers, hydroponics, stem cuttings, or tissue culture have been suggested for identifying tolerant genotypes but there has often been little correlation with field grown plants under such stresses. With recent advances in molecular biology, it is now possible for breeders to screen large numbers of accessions for desirable traits by using DNA markers. Such DNA markers allow indirect selection and/or comparison of different accessions or groups of accessions; the development of new lines with desirable traits has, hence, become faster and more efficient.Research Objectives: 1) Phenotype a segregating potato family (the plant materials will be decided according to the host lab materials) for water- and salinity-stress tolerance, 2) Study root morphological parameters in potato germplasm under salinity and drought stress conditions, 3) Determine correlation of in vitro drought/salinity tolerance screening with plants grown under drought/salinity stress in the greenhouse; 4) develop quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with tolerance to water- and salinity-stress, 5) Determine the correlation between measures of water- and salinity-stress, and , 6) Estimate the amount of genetic variation in this potato family for water- and salinity stress tolerance.In my PhD study in Iwate University, Japan, I have tried to identify and characterize the genes related to storage root formation through two approaches. In the first approach, the direct isolation of the candidate genes has been done in radish. On the other hand in the second approach, a genetic map for genes involved in the storage root development in turnip has been constructed. So, i had a chance to learn many advanced molecular techniques. on the other hand, during my post-doctor fellowship, USDA/ARS, Genetic Improvement of Fruits and Vegetables Laboratory, USA, I have worked mainly with the development of salinity stress tolerance in potato.Plants are subjected to different biotic and abiotic stresses from their environment. Salinity and inadequate water are among the most serious and widespread of agricultural problems contributing to lost crop yield and arable land. One of the best examples of salinity was observed in Egypt in 1970 when the Aswan High Dam was built in addition to the increasing compete for limited fresh water resources, and this is likely to continue into the future and become more problematic. Meanwhile, the overall objectives in this study is the development of crops with increased salt and drought tolerance which is important to enhanced agricultural productivity and/or food security in Egypt.Research Action Plan1st week-4th week1) Potato families (diploid potato family and widely grown tub varieties) will be evaluated in vitro for drought tolerance using polyethylene glycoland for salinity tolerance. Root and shoot morphological characteristics will be recorded.4th week-8th week2) The best genotypes of diploid and tub will be selected for validation of the drought and salinity for root and shoot morphological characteristics using tubers in a greenhouse.1st week-12th week3) QTLs associated with water- and salinity-stress tolerance will be identified.4) A large number of families will be screened to detect linkage between molecular -markers and beneficial genes.Plant materials:-Diploid Solanum chacoense (chc), modern cultivars of Solanum tuberosum (tub) will be used if it is possible.The USDA/ARS-Beltsville Potato Breeding Program has a long-day adapted diploid hybrid population of S. phureja-S. stenomtomum (phu-stn) that can be utilized in crosses with chc to try to combine favorable traits from both populations.Expected Results and Outcomes:Identify potato germplasm with tolerance to water- and salinity-stress for future breeding efforts and QTLs associated with water- and salinitystress tolerance. The cooperation with the American partner will enable the Egyptian scientist to learn valuable new research methodologiesto improve his capacity to do research on high priority goals in Egypt when he returns to his University. This will lead to promising new avenues of research in plant breeding and molecular genetics in the area of abiotic stress tolerance. Results will be published in peerreviewedjournal(s). Fellow #5 (Male): Utilization of genome wide association scan approach to establish association between phenotypic and genetic characters for exploration of quantitative trait loci linked to brown rot disease in some potato varieties. 1. The goal of my research is to explore the molecular diversity of potato genome (utilizing Infinium potato SNPs) for brown rot tolerance in a panel of potato germplasm, this will potentially lead to QTL discovery for disease resistance and performance under Egyptian environment condition.My research objectives are:A. Cultivar selection and cultivation in replicatesB. Preparation of the inoculum and artificial infectionC. Phenotypic characterizationD. DNA extraction and quantificationE. Genome wide association scan (GWAS)F. Data analysesF.1. Statistical analysis for the phenotypic collected data and testing for the validity of the studied traitsF.2. Population structure studyF.3. Principle component analysisF.4. Association scanG. Association result analyses.Of course these objectives will take 2 years to accomplish however I would like to have the profession assistance from Borlaug to establish it.Potato plant has one of the richest genetic resources of any cultivated plant (Spooner and Hijmans 2001). The genome consists of 12 chromosomes and has a (haploid) length of approximately 840 million base pairs, making it a medium-sized plant genome. However, potatogenetics is complicated by its polyploid genome and many important qualitative and quantitative agronomic traits are poorly understood. Yet, an understanding of its genetic composition is a basic requirement for developing more efficient breeding methods. The potato genomesequence has provided a major boost to gaining a better understanding of potato trait biology, underpinning future breeding efforts. Nevertheless, genetic variation is the basis for the biodiversity of life (Schlotterer 2004). Hence, variations in the DNA sequence of genesunderlie most of the phenotypic variation that has been exploited in modern crops (Bryan et al. 2000; Masouleh et al. 2009). The potato single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) represents the most abundant type of genetic variation that can be used as a molecular marker approach.Such SNPs can be unlocked using bioinformatic tools (Anithakumari et al 2010). The increased availability of high throughput genotyping technology, is now able to profile thousands of SNPs markers on large numbers of samples with high reliability and cost-efficiency (Tuberosaand Salvi, 2006). With these advancements, it is now possible to fast-track quantitative trait loci (QTLs) to potential candidate genes using approaches based upon association mapping and synteny conservation with sequenced genomes (Waugh et al., 2009).This study will lead to potential QTL discoveries based on the response of potato different cultivars to the brown rot disease infection. A comparative study by comparing the outcome of the project information with the existing potato genomic maps will potentially lead to the identification of important loci on the potato genome, that can be utilized for further studies and would result in some recommendations to be considered for future molecular potato breeding.Since Borlaug organization is committed to fund plant health concerned project, I find it a good body to understand and help bringing my idea to the light and boost it forward.Research Action PlanWeek 1:- Induction and orientation.Week 2,3:- Project idea discussion and confirming points to be carried out + Cultivar selection panel.Week 4,6:Experimental designWeek 5,6,7:- Preparation of the inoculum for artificial infection.Week 8-12:- Establishment of Genome wide association scan panel (Potato infinium SNPs - SolCAP).Fellow #6 (Male): Egypt; Disease-free seed production through in vitro culture technique.The goal of my research is to practice the protocol of meristem culture and micropropgation to produce disease-free seed potato, and to follow practically the whole process, in available.The research objectives that will achieve this goal are:- To participate in conduction an experiment at a specialized tissue-culture lab starting from establishing the meristem culture and passingthrough in vitro multiplication techniques.- To conduct field visits to watch from a short distance the stages and techniques that can’t be done during the period of the scholarship.- To attend lectures and seminars and conduct meeting with professionals in the field, if applicable.- To prepare a future working plan by the end of the training period through which I can conduct further research when I am back home.BackgroundIn Egypt, like any other developing countries, potato production is highly affected by shortage of good quality seed. In order to facilitate rapid multiplication of disease-free seed potato, meristem culture combined with microprogation has been successfully used over the years. Presence of pathogens in seed potatoes is a major concern according to the International Plant Protection Convention. The conventional potato seed is the vegetative tuber which is a modified stem with eyes on its skin. Each eye has more than one bud. For planting, well sprouted tubers are used. Conventional potato seed production involves a long process starting from production of basic seed which is used to produce certified seed under strict practices. This circle starts every year with fresh true-to-type and healthy tubers. In addition to low multiplication rate in conventional system, progressive accumulation of viral diseases during clonal propagation is the mainproblem. The need for sizable disease-free seed stock to initiate each seed production cycle.This causes degeneration of seed stock and consequently non-availability of quality seed at adequate quantities and at affordable price. Because of that, the cost of seed potatoes alone accounts for about 40-60% of the total production costs of the potato seeds. In vitro culture technique provides a proper solution for the aforementioned problems. Using meristem culture, pathogen-free plants could be produced and maintained indefinitely in tissue culture, with the need of some regular grow-out tests to confirm clonal identity. Establishing a meristem culture is the first step to ensure availability of pathogen-free starting material. The reason of using meristem culture is the fact that many viruses are unable to infect the apical/axillary meristems. Pathogen-free plants produced from the meristem culture need to pass through in vitro multiplication “micropropagation” to ensure a constant flow of disease-free plant stock.Strictly speaking, micropropagation of potato could be done through the following:- Multiplication of mericlones, where axillary/apical buds are used to produce new plants which are further sub-cultured as many times as needed. Theoretically, about 14.3 million microplants can be obtained from a single virus-free mericlones in a year.- Production of microtubers, which are very small tubers convenient for handling, storage and long distance transportation. Microtubers are produced in vitro using liquid culture technique.- Production ok minitubers, which are intermediate stage between lab micropropagation and field multiplication. Minitubers are produced through planting cuttings from in vitro-raised plants in glasshouse where 80-90% cuttings establish and produce about 8-12 minitubers/plant.They also can be produced from microtubers in nursery beds. All these advantages of in vitro culture technique in production and multiplication of virus-free plants provide a viable option for potato seed production in Egypt and other countries where production of disease-free seed potato cannot be done. During the scholarship, I hope I could join a reputable plant tissue culture lab working on production of disease-free plants in vitro. I hope as well that there could be a chance to be in contact with some professionals, experts and industrial men in this field. My background in plant in vitro culture and production of horticultural plants strongly relate to the goal of this proposal. In such a new country to visit, one can never enter the labs and nursery without a mentor. In addition, working with a mentor helps facilitate any arrangements for field visits or meetings with professionals. Enhancing agricultural productivity is the viable choice in the future to guarantee food security with the decline in agricultural land area and the increase in population. Such a projects and a training funded by Borlaug Fellowship aiming at reduction of production cost of potato in Egypt by intervention in the seed system largely contribute to enhanced agricultural productivity and ultimately economic development, and food security in Egypt.Research Proposal Week 1: Familiarizing with Lab research team, equipment and facilities. Discussing the work sequence during the assigned period of timeWeek 2: Preparation for meristem culture of potato through selection of healthy plants and testing these plants or tubers for freedom ofviruses using ELISA for example. In this stage plant material in addition to kits for ELISA test are required.Week 3: Establishment of in vitro cultures form the tested plants even if no plant was found free from viruses.Week 4: Thermotherapy of 7-day-old in vitro cultures for three weeks. This requires a thermotherapy chamber or BOD incubator and GA3 to treat infected tubers.Week 5-6: During the two weeks, thermotherapy is still done and therefore other activities could be explored like meetings with professionals and experts in the field and arranging visits to big commercial nurseries and private seed companies, if applicable. Information gathered duringthis period will help decide the trend of the future work.Week 7: meristem culture. This requires equipment, growth media and hormones. For the meristem culture to develop into full plantlets it takes about 5 months. Therefore, the rest of the following steps are to be done on old meristem cultures maintained at the lab.Week 8-9: Testing meristem-derived plantlets for freedom from Viruses by Elisa. Multiplication of virus-free plants through nodal cuttings.Week 10-12: Training on microtuber and minituber production. Two weeks are not enough to conduct any of these experiments and therefore training on the steps of the protocol could be done at the lab and the field. By the end of this period, noticed taken will help me prepare a planto conduct ................
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