University of Pretoria
Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute
A world-class centre of excellence at the University of Pretoria dedicated to advancing biotechnology research in forestry, agriculture, and the natural sciences.
240+
Members
20+
Academic Staff
150+
Postgraduate Students
30
Languages Spoken
The Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI) was established in 1997 as a centre of excellence within the University of Pretoria. FABI is recognised as one of the leading plant pathology and biotechnology research institutes in Africa and internationally renowned for its cutting-edge science and innovative research.
FABI undertakes research on a wide range of organisms including bacteria, fungi, insects, nematodes, oomycetes, phytoplasmas and viruses with the aim of finding solutions for serious biological threats to trees and agricultural crops in South Africa and globally.
FABI's research is fundamentally based on an understanding of the biology of pathogens and pests and how they interact with their hosts and environments. This allows us to devise new and effective strategies for their management and control in sustainable and environmentally sound ways.
Our Community
Today FABI is home to approximately 240 members including more than 20 academic staff and research leaders and more than 150 postgraduate students at the Honours, MSc and PhD levels. FABI also hosts many postdoctoral fellows and visiting researchers from across the globe.
The institute is a vibrant multicultural community where more than 30 languages are spoken. This diverse team works collaboratively, bringing together a breadth of expertise and perspective that makes FABI's science truly global in outlook while remaining deeply rooted in addressing African challenges.
Industry Partnerships
FABI has strong partnerships with the forestry and agricultural industries and maintains close collaborative ties with government departments and international research institutions. These partnerships enable FABI to ensure that our research has real-world impact and practical relevance.
Through these collaborations we have contributed to the development of new diagnostic tools, resistant plant varieties, biocontrol agents, and management strategies that protect billions of rands worth of forest and agricultural resources each year.
Forestry
Protecting commercial plantations and natural forests from pests, pathogens, and emerging threats.
Agriculture
Developing disease-resistant crops and sustainable solutions for South Africa's food security.
Biotechnology
Pioneering genomic, molecular, and bioinformatic tools to advance our understanding of plant health.