China-Australia Joint Center for Wheat Improvement

The China-Australia Joint Center for Wheat Improvement was established in 2013 with the aim of fostering long-term collaboration in wheat breeding between China and Australia, focusing on enhancing the efficiency of molecular breeding, particularly in the discovery and utilization of genes related to quality traits. The center was jointly established by the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Capital Normal University, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, in collaboration with Murdoch University, Australia.

By June 2025, the center has introduced 175 high-quality, high-yield, and disease-resistant varieties, six genetic populations, and 25 near-isogenic lines with high and low molecular weight glutenin subunits. Ten genes related to yield and quality traits have been cloned, and five new genes conferring resistance to stripe rust have been discovered. Three varieties developed using molecular markers have been approved for release, and 135 new breeding lines have been developed. Fifty-seven research papers have been published, 11 patents have been granted, and the center has trained one postdoctoral researcher, six PhD students, and eight master’s students. More than 30 researchers have been sent to Australia for academic exchanges and visits, significantly contributing to the advancement of wheat genetic breeding research in China and the cultivation of international talents. In recognition of the outstanding collaboration, the Australian director, Rudi Appels, was awarded the 2023 International Cooperation Award by the Crop Science Society of China, and Professor Ma Wujun received the 2024 Zhuang Qiaosheng International Cooperation Award.