Fast next-gen evolution to create new-to-nature crop resistance genes

This project aims to establish a novel high-throughput screening method to improve disease resistance in crops againstharmful fungal pathogens. Fungal pathogens cause some of the most harmful crop diseases and yield loss in Australia andworldwide. Managing these diseases is a major challenge to agriculture. This project is expected to accelerate artificial proteinevolution towards rapid engineering of natural plant immune receptor genes for better recognition and response to fungalattacks. Outcomes of the project will contribute to global food security and sustainable agricultural practices which requirereduced fungicide usage.