government laboratories are being trained in the use of the test developed by Úrbez-Torres. He is in the process of expanding the DNA diagnostic tool for all 80 to 90 fungal pathogens of grapevine trunk disease.
In time, he wants to adapt the tool for use in identifying fungal pathogens of other crops of economic importance in B.C., such as apples, cherries and blueberries. He has already started work on slip-skin disease of cherries and eventually will be investigating replant disease.
“I also do pathology support work for the tree fruit breeding program led by Cheryl Hampson and the post harvest work of Peter Toivonen,” Úrbez-Torres said.
“He has a broad expertise in other diseases of woody perennial crops including viral, bacterial and fungal diseases of grapes and tree fruits,” Bowen said. “He was able to hit the ground running with several projects to serve our local industries. “With his international connections he keeps us at the global forefront of research in fruit crop pathologies.” Wishing to remain at PARC long- term, Úrbez-Torres has turned down employment opportunities in the United States.
“The facilities here are first class, and I am able to work with a wonderful team of people, including Pat, Dan, Peter, Cheryl, Tom Lowery and others,” he said.
From his extensive international connections Úrbez-Torres has come to realize how well funded the B.C. industry is.
“It’s right at the top of support in relation to its size,” said Úrbez- Torres, who works closely with growers, commodity boards, industry groups and research scientists. His work is funded through the Developing Innovation Agri-Products (DIAP) program in conjunction with the B.C. Wine Grape Council. “His energy is dizzying. Any conversation with him is exciting and inspirational,” Bowen said. Úrbez-Torres is married to Tanya Voegel, a post-doctorate fellow at the University of B.C.-Okanagan working on the effect of irrigation and fertilization management in relation to greenhouse gas production. The couple has a three-year old son and a month-old daughter.
16 British Columbia FRUIT GROWER • Winter 2013-14
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