iMAS Training Program

We are pleased to announce that under the Generation Challenge Programme (GCP), we are organizing “ iMAS Training programme ” for African NARS at ICRISAT, Nairobi, during 18-19 December 2009.

iMAS provides a single unified computing and decision support platform to facilitate identification of trait-linked markers for use in marker-aided selection and breeding by (a) Integrating and implementing the required computational processes, and (b) providing guidelines for correct application and interpretation of computational tools.

iMAS implements a mapping-population-based approach to identify trait-linked markers. It has six modules: Data Validation, Phenotyping, Linkage Map Building, QTL Analysis, Genome/QTL Display and Marker Assisted Breeding.

The Data Validation module provides facilities to check basic background information on data files and gives an opportunity to correct data files if necessary, before starting to use iMAS.

The Phenotyping helps to (1) select and generate a suitable experimental design for phenotyping and (2) undertake biometric analysis of resulting phenotyping data to obtain average phenotypic values.

The Linkage Map Building module generates a linkage map. The QTL Analysis module undertakes QTL analysis based on a linkage map, the genotyping data used to build that linkage map, and the average phenotypic values.

The Genome/QTL Display module facilitates graphical display of genomic content of progenies and the Marker Assisted Breeding module helps determine the optimal sample size for marker-aided backcrossing.

Participants attending this training programme would be given in-depth training in all the above modules.

We are inviting the applications from NARS from African locations. Please drop your application to Ms B Manjula ( b.manjula@cgiar.org ) with the subject line as “Application for iMAS training programme” by 10 November 2009.

Selected candidates would be intimated by 20 November and would be updated with relevant requisites for the training programme. F ull board and lodging would be provided by the organizers during the workshop.