UK: Centenary fruit science conference at East Malling Research

A two day meeting organised by East Malling Research (EMR) and the Association of Applied Biologists will explore past, current and future research leading to improved production and quality of fruits. "Fruits and Roots: a celebration and forward look" is the scientific centrepiece of EMR's 100th anniversary celebrations and will take place at EMR on 6-7 November. It is an international meeting featuring speakers from the USA, New Zealand, UK, Europe, and Japan.

Each group of talks will be opened by a world-leader in their field, followed by presentations by more than 15 other scientists from around the globe. The full programme including titles from the additional poster session, can be found on EMR's website at www.emr.ac.uk

With its array of basic and strategic research covering a range of fruits, the event will present those attending with an invaluable educational and networking opportunity. It offers a chance to discover and discuss the emerging science in related fields, and advances in knowledge that will lead to the development of superior varieties with the quality attributes industry desires.

The scientific programme includes the Bewley Lecture. The Bewley lectures were established in 1978, at the Glasshouse Crops Research Institute (GCRI), Littlehampton, UK, and is named after the first Director, Dr William Bewley. Bewley lectures continue to highlight important advances in horticultural and agricultural science and policy associated with the past scientific remit of GCRI. This year's prestigious lecture 'Understanding the genetic basis of fruit ripening - science discovery into commercial practice' will be given by Graham Seymour, Professor of Plant Biotechnology and Head of the Plant and Crop Science Division at the University of Nottingham.

The speech following the conference dinner will be given by Prof. Sir John Beddington of the Martin School at the University of Oxford and former UK Government Chief Scientific Adviser from 2008 until 2013.

EMR's Chief Executive, Prof. Peter Gregory, will present the opening lecture and said, "Following our long history of scientific excellence, EMR remains committed to developing the knowledge that will lead to commercial innovation for the horticulture industry. EMR are delighted to host this event that focuses on advances in science that will assist fruit growers to compete in global markets, over the next century."

The event costs £190 for delegates and £140 for students with a £25 charge for late booking. The cost includes attendance, lunch, refreshments, poster reception, conference dinner, a copy of the Aspects of Applied Biology 119 and VAT.

Anyone wishing to attend, should contact Bernadette Lawson, AAB at Bernadette@aab.org.uk or Tel: +44 (0)2476 575195.