Bayer signs GM research agreement with IPK

Bayer has signed a research agreement with the German Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK).

The former explained the deal will see the two firms collaborating to develop genetically-modified and high-yielding canola hybrids.

Commenting on the move, Dr Michiel van Lookeren Campagne, head of bioscience research at Bayer CropScience, said the firm was "delighted" to be working alongside a partner with the calibre of IPK.

Professor Andreas Graner, managing director of the IPK in Gatersleben, added: "This collaboration with a global company like Bayer CropScience demonstrates that our research is also attracting international attention outside the scientific community."

Canola is a Canadian oilseed rape and the two firms believe there is potential to increase the oil content of the conventional form of the plant.

Earlier this month, Bayer CropScience announced plans to present new data on the biological and chemical properties of its new herbicidal active ingredient indaziflam.