The primary objective of the Clemson University Soybean Breeding Program is to release high-yielding soybean varieties that are well adapted to the environmental conditions and biotic stresses throughout South Carolina. To do this, research focuses on incorporating genetic diversity to broaden and improve sources of pest resistance, seed composition and yield in soybean, using molecular markers to improve selection for important agronomic traits and releasing varieties and germplasm adapted to the southeast. Key areas of focus include reniform nematode resistance, drought tolerance, rust resistance, resistance to other nematodes, new herbicide resistant traits as they become available and disease resistance. Other efforts focus on selection and identification of soybean genes controlling protein synthesis and storage along with the development of markers for those genes.

Key Benefactors:
farmers, agronomists, extension agents, soybean breeders, seed companies