The aim of this module is to provide an understanding of the basic principles of plant breeding and genetics and to explore the principles and applications of the newer technologies in the manipulation of traits in crop improvement. On completion the students' understanding will include: The principles, analysis and application of Mendelian, population and quantitative genetics in plant breeding; the background to and application of molecular techniques such as the generation and use of doubled haploid populations and marker assisted breeding and selection; breeding strategies and selection procedures; principles and application of heterosis and hybrid breeding.