b'2024 NEXT-GEN LEADERS8Marc ZienkiewiczPEOPLE WHO REPRESENTTHE NEW SEED INDUSTRYThese 2024 Next-Gen Leaders are changing the seed and plant science landscape for the betterin a number of different ways. WELCOME TO Seed World Canadas Next-Gen Leaders of 2024He arrived in Canada in 2012 to pursue his graduate studiesa glimpse into the trailblazers redefining the landscape ofat the University of Saskatchewan. This move would shape the plant science and agriculture. In a realm where tradition meetstrajectory of his career.cutting-edge technology, these visionary minds are pushing theBrar pursued a masters degree in wheat pathology and later boundaries and reshaping the very essence of what it means toa PhD focusing on wheat breeding under the mentorship of work in plant science. With their dedication to diversity andPierre Hucl. His pursuit of excellence propelled him to join the inclusion and a passion for their work, they are not just culti- faculty at the University of British Columbia in January 2020, vating crops but cultivating a new era of agricultural excellence.where he embarked on pioneering research in wheat genetics Join us as we honour these pioneers who are boldly charting theand resistance breeding.course for a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable future inHaving recently been recruited by the University of Alberta plant science and beyond. to take on the breeding program there, Brar is becoming a true leader in western Canadian wheat breeding.The opportunity to lead an established wheat breeding pro-Making Wheat for the North gram at the University of Alberta was a dream come true. With Gurcharn Singh Brar the necessary resources and infrastructure in place, Im excited Edmonton, Alta.to drive innovation and develop high-yielding wheat varieties tailored to the unique conditions of northern Canada.In the world of wheat breed- Brar has become known for identifying novel sources of ing, not everyone possessesresistance to priority diseases and his efforts in developing the blend of passion, exper- wheat germplasm with multiple disease-resistant traits.tise, and perseverance thatIn addition to his groundbreaking research, Brar is commit-comes naturally to Gurcharnted to mentoring the next generation of agricultural scientists.Singh Brar. Hailing fromI believe in nurturing talent and empowering students to Indias Punjab state, thepursue their passions, he says. Watching my students grow 33-year-olds journey toand thrive in their research endeavours is hugely rewarding.becoming a leading figure inAs he looks ahead, Brars vision for the future of wheat Canadian wheat breeding isbreeding is clear: My number one target is to develop high-getting noticed. With his new position at theyielding wheat varieties adapted to the northern climates of I often say, I grew upUniversity of Alberta, the 33-year- Canada. By focusing on early maturity and strong straw traits, with wheat, Brar shares,olds journey to becoming awe can maximize yield potential while ensuring resilience to reminiscing about his familysleading figure in Canadian wheatenvironmental challenges.agricultural background. Mybreeding is getting noticed.Despite his demanding schedule, Brar remains grounded by father cultivated wheat and rice in rotation, giving me a deephis family and roots. His wife Ramandeep is a mathematician appreciation for farming. by training.Upon completing his bachelor of science in agriculture atShe really is my pillar of support, he says. Her under-Punjab Agricultural University, Brar set his sights on Canadastanding and enthusiasm for agriculture have been invaluable, for his graduate studies. and I am grateful for her encouragement every day.4 SEEDWORLD.COM/CANADAMARCH 2024'