GEVES attended the UPOV TWM meeting
A particularly rewarding week took place in Cambridge during the 4th session of the UPOV Technical Working Group on Methods and Techniques (TWM), held from 2 to 5 June 2026. Hosted by Defra, the APHA and the NIAB, alongside colleagues from the AFBI and SASA, in the exceptional setting of Jesus College, the event brought together DUS experts from around the world, as well as representatives from international organisations and the seed industry.
The discussions highlighted the rapid developments in variety evaluation methods, with a strong emphasis on the integration of innovative technologies. Key topics included the development of databases, the growing use of molecular techniques, image analysis and the rise of artificial intelligence in phenotyping and DUS testing processes. These discussions highlighted the importance of international collaboration to support these changes and ensure harmonised approaches, while respecting the UPOV framework of best practices for DUS examinations.
The excellent organisation and warm welcome from the British teams fostered an atmosphere conducive to sharing experiences and collective reflection. The visite of NIAB’s research facilities and DUS test station provided a practical illustration of the advances presented throughout the week.
Colleagues from GEVES played a major part in the success of the week by delivering several presentations: two presentations on statistical analyses combining several years’ worth of testing in the assessment of distinctness and uniformity (COY), a presentation on the potential for using molecular markers in the DUS examination of soft wheat in France, and an oral report on the ongoing discussions amongst experts regarding the terminology relating to molecular markers used at UPOV, the OECD and ISTA, including the extent to which these terms converge and the possible need for harmonisation.
The meeting concluded with the proposal to appoint our GEVES colleague René Mathis as the next Chair of the TWM group for the next three years.
