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Exploring the Heart of Rice Research: A Visit to the International Rice Research Institute
UCPH MSc student Christopher Steiness (third from the left) in his science visit to IRRI HQ with IRRI Senior Scientist Amelia Henry (fourth to the left) with their colleagues at the submergence field.
In a step towards learning more about rice submergence tolerance, University of Copenhagen (UCPH) master's student Christopher Steiness spent a month at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Headquarters in the Philippines. This journey is a crucial part of his MSc project, funded by DANIDA, as part of the Climate-Smart African rice research project.
Christopher studied more than 60 rice genotypes, all part of the 3K Rice project, where 3000 rice accessions underwent sequencing. His work included leaf traits studied in the laboratory and the complete submergence of rice plants at the IRRI rice submergence facility.
Guided by senior scientist Amelia Henry, Christopher's journey was made possible through DANIDA's support and additional funding secured from a private Danish foundation. His experience at IRRI involved long working days and interactions with scientists specializing in abiotic stress tolerance in rice.
Now that he is back in Copenhagen, Christopher is now immersed in the analysis of data and leaf samples shipped from the Philippines. His efforts promise valuable insights contributing to ongoing research in our Climate-Smart African rice project.
As we await the outcomes of Christopher's endeavors, we appreciate his dedication and work during his visit to IRRI. Well done, Christopher – your commitment to advancing our understanding of rice submergence tolerance is commendable!