Paul Arens

Paul Arens is a Researcher at Wageningen University & Research, specializing in plant breeding and genetics. His work focuses on polyploid crop genomics, particularly in ornamental species like roses and chrysanthemums.

• Active in genetic mapping, haplotype resolution, and disease resistance breeding
• Develops advanced imaging and computational tools for phenotyping
• Leads projects on chrysanthemum genome diversity and Botrytis resistance

His research integrates genomics with practical breeding applications, addressing challenges in allopolyploid species like Fragaria x ananassa (strawberry) and tetraploid potatoes. Recent work emphasizes automated disease scoring (Spotibot) and haplotype-specific genome assembly.

Current projects include:

• LWV22014: Tapping into chrysanthemum genome diversity
• LWV20112: Sequence-based markers for polyploid breeding
• Breaking the bond with Botrytis: Genetic resistance in Rosaceae

He collaborates internationally on polyploid genome sequencing and contributes to plant genotyping methodologies.