Dr. Haider Abbas leads the canola research program, bringing over 20 years of experience
across continents, crops, and production systems. He bridges science and practice
by combining smallplot agronomic R&D with active grower engagement. He works closely
with industry and research partners and delivers field-driven problem solving through
independent, third-party research services. With previous roles at Ag-Quest, Cargill,
and Corteva, his focus is clear: empowering growers with practical, data-driven solutions
for more productive and sustainable farming.
His current work is centered on unlocking canola’s genetic potential through precision
spraying and smarter input management, strengthening crop strategies to address pests
and climatic extremes while driving higher yields and supporting a stronger future
for Canadian canola.
Education:
- PhD in Plant Germplasm Conservation, University of Karachi, Pakistan
- MSc in Horticulture & Commercial Propagation, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad,
Pakistan
- Diploma in Botanic Garden Management (Plant Conservation), University of Cambridge
& Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, UK
- Certificate in Public Education & Plant Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences
& Beijing Botanical Garden, China
Areas of expertise:
- Applied agronomy research
- Crop input optimization
- Crop stress resilience (biotic and abiotic)
- Herbicide resistance and weed systems management
- Nitrogen use efficiency & 4R nutrient stewardship
- Regenerative agriculture and soil health
- Small-plot research and experimental design
Current projects
Project: Development of a regional blackleg disease nursery for canola variety assessment
Dates: 2024 - long-term field trial
Funders: Western Canada Canola/Rapeseed Recommending Committee (WCC/RRC), Canola Council
Project: Unlocking canola yield potential through improved nitrogen use efficiency
Dates: 2025-2027
Funders: Lakeland College Applied Research
Project: The impact of two soil temperatures on performance of enhanced efficiency fertilizer
on nitrogen use efficiency in canola production
Dates: 2026-2029
Funders: Agriculture Funding Consortium (AFC) (proposal submitted, awaiting funding decision)
Completed projects
Project: 4R nutrient stewardship demonstration trial (public education)
Dates: 2023
Funders: Canola Council of Canada
Project: From full coverage to spot control: Transforming weed management for growers and
the environment
Dates: 2023–2025
Funders: Lakeland College Applied Research, Weed-IT Canada (in-kind)
Project: Utilization of atmospheric nitrogen for canola production
Dates: 2023-2024
Funders: Lakeland College Applied Research