Sustainable Production
Dr Ken Breen
Principal Scientist and Team Leader, Berry and Stone Fruit Physiology
My current research is concentrated on the physiology of deciduous fruit crops especially fruit development and production in apples, pears and almonds in intensive orchard systems. The focus is on whole tree physiology, specifically flowering and fruit set physiology, canopy light relations, crop load management and fruit quality. Some of this work is related to development and global commercialisation of new scions and rootstocks. This research involves significant collaboration with breeders, postharvest physiologists and sensory scientists, and requires alliance with international scientific and industry networks. I provide science leadership and advice across multiple crops (apples, pears, almonds, cherries, apricots, mango, avocado, citrus) and multiple disciplines (physiology, environment, technology, breeding) in NZ and Australia. I support international scientific and grower groups, our clients, and our products, through speaking at international conferences, leading and participating in discussion panels and field days, and providing support to growers internationally.