The new multi-crop and multipurpose research centre will enable to develop advanced and sustainable agricultural solutions for farmers

Szed facility

The new centre in Szeged will focus on developing sustainable solutions for farmers. (Credit: Corteva)

Pure-play agriculture company Corteva Agriscience has opened a new multi-crop and multipurpose research centre in Szeged, Hungary.

The new centre will allow Corteva’s research and development (R&D) team members to work together for the development of advanced and sustainable agricultural solutions for farmers across Europe and the world.

Corteva has developed the new multi-crop and multipurpose research centre with an investment of $1.9m. The new centre employs 34 people, including eight scientists focusing on innovation in seed and crop protection.

Corteva centre includes plant breeding team and integrated field science team

Szeged centre’s plant breeding team will take responsibility for corn and sunflower breeding and product development of Corteva’s elite germplasm.

The team will involve in the development of hybrids with higher yield potential and agronomic qualities, including heat stress tolerance that is extensive in continental Europe.

Corteva’s team already involved in the development of products such as Pioneer brand ExpressSun herbicide-tolerant sunflower hybrids, high-oleic sunflower seeds and Pioneerbrand Optimum AQUAmax corn product line.

The parent characterisation capabilities and production research activities of the team also complement Corteva’s seed production facility in nearby Szarvas.

Also, the integrated field science team at Szeged will engage in the development of new weed, insect and disease management solutions, in addition to seed-applied technologies and biological via in-field research and trials.

Corteva Agriscience Europe Abelardo De La Vega said: “This is a very important milestone in the history of Corteva Agriscience, as three significant R&D units are united to collaborate and deliver advanced solutions for farmers of Hungary and other European countries.

“With this integration, we are establishing a creative environment for innovation and operational excellence using the synergies of three previously separate facilities.”

In July this year, Corteva agreed to purchase a complete stake in PhytoGen Seed Company from J.G. Boswell for an undisclosed sum.