In this episode of our special series on corn production on The Crop Science Podcast Show, Dr. James Schnable from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln breaks down how genetics, genomics, and machine learning are reshaping modern hybrid development. He explains how breeders use genomic prediction and high-throughput phenotyping to tackle climate variability, stress tolerance, and yield stability. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Hybrid breeding and statistical analysis really are what moved hybrid cornfields in the US from around 26 to 30 bushels an acre to now north of 200."

Meet the guest: Dr. James Schnable is the Nebraska Corn Presidential Chair at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he leads research integrating quantitative genetics, genomics, and machine learning to improve crops like corn and sorghum. His work focuses on advanced phenotyping, climate resilience, and genetic discovery to support breeders and the crop industry.

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What you will learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:06) Introduction
• (04:19) Breeding changes
• (08:33) Climate-ready hybrids
• (11:02) Key trait priorities
• (14:55) Genomic prediction
• (18:50) Gene editing limits
• (23:17) Final three questions

The Crop Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- KWS

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