Jochen C. Reif

Prof. Dr. Jochen C. Reif is Professor of Cytogenetics and Genome Analysis at the University of Halle and Head of the Department of Breeding Research at the Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) since 2013. His research focuses on quantitative genetics, plant breeding, and genomic analysis of crop plants, particularly wheat. He leads the Quantitative Genetics research group at IPK Gatersleben.

Reif completed his studies in Agrobiology at the University of Hohenheim (1997-2001), followed by PhD studies at the Institute of Plant Breeding, Seed Science, and Population Genetics at the same university (2001-2004). He earned his PhD in Agricultural Sciences in 2004 and completed his Habilitation in Plant Breeding and Crop Biodiversity in 2007. From 2008 to 2012, he served as Head of the State Plant Breeding Institute and the Experimental Station of Plant Breeding at the University of Hohenheim.

Prof. Reif's research interests span multiple areas of plant genetics and breeding. His work primarily focuses on:

• Quantitative genetics and genomic prediction in crop plants
• Wheat breeding and hybrid development
• Utilization of plant genetic resources for crop improvement
• Genome-wide association studies and genomic selection
• Heterosis and hybrid breeding strategies
• Integration of big data in plant breeding programs

His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on leveraging genomic data for wheat and barley improvement, with particular emphasis on hybrid breeding, genomic prediction, and the utilization of genebank resources. His research group has made significant contributions to understanding the genetic architecture of complex traits in cereals and developing methods to improve breeding efficiency.

Among his notable achievements are:

• Josef G. Knoll Science Award (2006)
• Hans H. Ruthenberg Award (2002)
• Eiselen foundation Fellowship (2000)
• Extraordinary (APL) Professorship at the University of Hohenheim (2010)

Prof. Reif has supervised numerous PhD and Master's students, contributing significantly to the training of the next generation of plant breeders and geneticists. His research group collaborates extensively with international partners and has secured funding for various projects focused on crop improvement through advanced genomic approaches.