The continuation of New Zealand's reputation of agricultural excellence relies on the constant application of cutting-edge technology. Our research and development targets innovative methods of pest and disease control, helping New Zealand maintain its position as a world-leader in sustainable agriculture.

Systems biology offers unheralded opportunities for the development of superior crops with enhanced resistance to pests and diseases.

Research in this theme focuses on:

• understanding the molecular basis of interactions between pathogens, including host recognition, molecular modelling, host colonisation and damage, and host resistance
• developing new technologies for host protection.