Yordan Dolaptchiev

I conduct innovative gene editing in crop plant species, with a primary focus on diploid potato. My research centres on developing efficient methods for targeted gene insertions—an area that remains technically challenging in plants.

A key goal is to achieve precise integrations without residual sequences such as T-DNA borders, recombinase sites, or other “scar” sequence. The genes I deliver are typically disease resistance genes sourced from potato relatives, offering protection against major pathogens like Late Blight. This work is closely aligned with evolving regulatory frameworks around Precision-Bred Organisms in the UK and products of New Genomic Techniques in the EU.

In addition to targeted insertions, I employ classical gene editing strategies to generate novel alleles of agronomic interest—alleles that are absent from the existing crop gene pool. Ultimately, my research aims to enhance potato productivity and contribute to global food security.