Hermann Bürstmayr

Hermann Bürstmayr is a University Professor at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU), holding dual appointments at the Institute of Biotechnology in Plant Production and the Institute of Plant Breeding within the Department of Agricultural Sciences. With over 434 publications and numerous ongoing research projects extending to 2027, he maintains an active research program focused on improving cereal crops through advanced breeding techniques.

Professor Bürstmayr's research interests center on developing disease-resistant wheat varieties, particularly targeting Fusarium head blight, common bunt, and other fungal pathogens that affect cereal crops. His work integrates traditional plant breeding with cutting-edge genomic approaches, including genome-wide association studies, genomic prediction models, and marker-assisted selection. His research spans fundamental genetic studies to practical breeding applications aimed at developing climate-resilient varieties with improved yield and quality traits.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on genomic selection for disease resistance, particularly against Fusarium head blight in both bread and durum wheat. His work increasingly incorporates AI and drone technology for field phenotyping, reflecting the digital transformation of plant breeding. His research addresses critical challenges in food security, including mycotoxin contamination reduction and adaptation to climate change impacts on crop production.

Professor Bürstmayr has secured substantial funding from diverse sources including the Austrian Science Fund, European Commission, Austrian Research Promotion Agency, and industry partners. His projects often have international dimensions, with collaborations extending to Africa (Kenya, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe), Canada, and other global partners.

He has supervised numerous theses and has been actively involved in knowledge transfer activities, including public lectures, media appearances, and participation in scientific conferences worldwide. His work bridges the gap between fundamental research and practical agricultural applications, with significant contributions to both scientific understanding and practical breeding solutions for cereal crop improvement.