BASF - Developing Technologies for Targeted Large DNA Insertion in Crops

BASF seeks novel genome editing technologies and platform approaches that enable efficient, predictable targeted insertion of large DNA sequences (minimum 7–10 kb) into commercially relevant crops, particularly soybean and oilseed rape, with emphasis on scalable, precise, and heritable integration for crop improvement.

Overview

• Funding of $25,000–$150,000 for proof-of-concept studies, with opportunities for $300,000+ two-year collaborations for exceptional proposals
• Direct collaboration with BASF scientists and subject matter experts in genome editing, plant transformation, and trait development
• Access to advanced genome editing platforms, including CRISPR/Cas systems (with emphasis on Cas12a), vector design capabilities, and targeted DNA integration technologies
• Access to biological materials, transformation systems, selected enhancers, vectors, and relevant compounds and reagents
• Use of specialized research infrastructure for plant transformation, tissue culture, and molecular biology
• Opportunities to leverage genomic, transformation, and performance datasets through joint data generation and analysis
• Partnership models include sponsored research, co-development, and licensing arrangements

Priority Areas

Targeted DNA Integration Technologies

Programmable Nuclease-Mediated Targeted Insertion: Develop CRISPR/Cas- and Cas12a-based approaches that enable precise, site-specific insertion of large DNA sequences into plant genomes.

Donor-Mediated Insertion Optimization: Investigate strategies to improve targeted DNA integration through donor template optimization, repair pathway modulation, donor amplification systems, or related technologies.

Engineered Transposase and Transposon Systems: Explore engineered transposase- or transposon-based systems capable of targeted or semi-targeted DNA insertion in crop genomes.

Integrated Genome Editing Platforms: Develop comprehensive solutions that combine genome editing machinery, donor DNA delivery, and supporting technologies to improve targeted insertion efficiency and predictability.

Eligibility & Requirements

Eligible Applicants:

• Academic researchers
• Startup companies
• Service providers (CROs/CMOs)

Technology Requirements:

Projects should demonstrate:

• A credible pathway for targeted insertion of DNA payloads of at least 7–10 kb, with preference for approaches capable of delivering payloads up to 25 kb
• Evidence supporting transferability beyond model plants, with preference for soybean and oilseed rape; data from other crop systems will be considered with strong justification
• Precise and predictable sequence integration, preferably as single-copy insertions, with evidence or a credible pathway toward stable inheritance across generations
• Limited off-target activity and minimal unintended genomic modifications
• Alignment with enabling technologies, including delivery systems, recombination or repair enhancers, and plant transformation components
• Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3–5, ranging from experimental proof of concept to validation in a relevant environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated high-efficiency, site-specific DNA integration in soybean or oilseed rape
• Validated, IP-protected technologies with licensing potential across multiple crop species
• Compatibility with Cas12a when Cas nucleases are employed
• Willingness to pursue co-development with BASF, including intellectual property collaboration
• Technologies enabling efficient stacking of multiple traits at defined genomic loci in complex polyploid crops such as Brassica napus and wheat
• Compatibility with existing Agrobacterium-mediated transformation methods and breeding pipelines

Out of Scope:

• Technologies that do not demonstrate targeted insertion across multiple genomic loci or crop species
• Prime editing-based targeted integration strategies and related derivatives
• Transgenic approaches incompatible with current or emerging regulatory frameworks for new breeding technologies
• Studies limited to model plant species without sufficient evidence of transferability to commercial oilseed crops

Timeline

• Application deadline: August 7

How to Submit

• Contact BASF through the partnering request platform to discuss proposal details
• Submit a proposal demonstrating alignment with the priority research areas and required technology characteristics
• Include evidence of technology performance, transferability, and a clear development pathway toward commercial application

Please note: The full RFP is attached in the "More Information" section of this page. Faculty and researchers interested in applying for these opportunities based on technologies developed or disclosed at Vanderbilt must submit their proposals through the CTTC.