The Maize Research Institute, Zemun Polje, is the leading research and development organisation in Serbia, in the development, production and introduction of new high-yielding, quality maize hybrids, soya bean cultivars and small grains varieties, adapted to diverse agro-ecological conditions and growing practices, and suitable for varied purposes and uses.

ACTIVITIES

  1. Research and development
  2. Production
  3. Marketing and advertising
  4. Commercial and financial activities

1. Research and development

  • development of maize hybrids, soya bean cultivars and small grains varieties of high-yielding potential and superb quality for different growing conditions, purposes and needs
  • basic research in applied and development programmes focused on plant breeding, seed production, cultivation and utilisation of ZP cultivars, varieties and hybrids
  • development and application of a ZP crop production system for obtaining high and stable yields under diverse agro-ecological conditions of cultivation
  • development of technological methods and processing procedures for the production of food, feed and for industrial processing
  • educating and training of experts

2. Production activities

Production activities of the Institute are mainly related to the organisation of the seed production of ZP maize hybrids, soya bean cultivars and small grains varieties, and production of commercial field crops.

  • production of basic (foundation) and certified seed of ZP maize hybrids, soya bean cultivars and small grains varieties;
  • drying, processing and storage of seeds of ZP maize hybrids, as well as, soya bean cultivars and small grains varieties;
  • field crops production on the in-company agricultural estates in Zemun Polje and Krnješevci.

3. Marketing and advertising

  • Drawing up of monthly and annual plans and programmes of activities;
  • Market analysis;
  • Promotions via electronic media, newspapers and in direct contacts with buyers/clients;
  • Creating and broadcasting advertising spots.

4. Commercial and financial activities

  • sales of certified and basic (foundation) seed of ZP hybrids of maize, soya bean cultivars and small grains varieties preparation of short-term (annual) production and financial plans, and long-term (5-year period) research and development plans;
  • preparation of short-term (annual) production and financial plans, and long-term (5-year period) research and development plans;
  • short-term and long-term monitoring of business efficiency;
  • development of management information systems

RESOURCES

  • Maize Gene Bank with more than 5,500 accessions of local and introduced maize genotypes;
  • seed processing plant with an annual capacity of 8,700 t;
  • six research laboratories;
  • 1,400 ha of arable land;
  • Maize Breeding Station for development of early maturity ZP maize hybrids, located in Planinica, near Valjevo (central Serbia), at an altitude of 670m.

HUMAN RESOURCES

  • 312 employees
  • 49 PhD
  • 1 MSc
  • 64 BSc