Leonardo Velasco Varo

GENETIC IMPROVEMENT OF OIL CROPS

My line of research is focused on sunflower, the main annual oil crop in Spain, with two main objectives: development of new sources of genetic resistance to the parasitic plant sunflower bunchy top (Orobanche cumana) and development of new healthier oil qualities and/or with improved properties for the food and non-food industry. I am also researching the development of alternative oil crops for the Mediterranean Basin, including Ethiopian mustard (Brassica carinata), safflower (Carthamus tinctorius), and castor bean (Ricinus communis).

• E-mail: lvelasco@ias.csic.es
• IAS Main Building – Office 16 top floor
• Telephone: 957 49 92 36