Radovan I. Bošković, PhD

Serbian citizen | UK Indefinite Leave to Remain
Mrdjenovac, Serbia

Academic Qualifications

  • PhD, University of London, 1998
  • MSc, University of Belgrade, 1991
  • BSc, University of Belgrade, 1982

Academic and Research Appointments

  • Division of Biology, Imperial College London, UK
  • Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Serbia
  • Breeding & Genetics Department, East Malling Research, Kent, UK
  • Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Serbia

Research Expertise

Dr. Bošković’s research focuses on molecular genetics, reproductive biology, and breeding of Rosaceae species, particularly mechanisms of self-incompatibility and genetic mapping in tree fruit.

His expertise includes:

  • Genetic and biochemical analysis of RNase-based self-incompatibility in Rosaceae
  • Stylar ribonuclease analysis (IEF, activity staining)
  • 1D and 2D protein electrophoresis and protein blotting
  • PCR and RT-PCR (allele-specific and consensus primers)
  • DNA cloning and sequence analysis (DNASTAR, DnaSP)
  • Phylogenetic analysis (PAUP)
  • Ethylene perception in apple (cloning of ETR1 alleles)
  • Tree fruit breeding: cross design, seedling selection
  • Isoenzyme markers and genetic interpretation
  • DNA marker systems: AFLPs, RFLPs, SSRs
  • Linkage mapping (LINKEM software)
  • Characterization of rosaceous genetic resources (morphological and marker-assisted)
  • Academic teaching, supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate students
  • Preparation of scientific reports and peer-reviewed publications

Major Research Projects

Dr. Bošković contributed to numerous national and international research programs, including:

  • Genetic Improvement of Pome Fruit (MAFF/Defra, UK)
  • Genetic Improvement of Stone Fruit (MAFF/Defra, UK)
  • Genetic Improvement of Farm Woodland Species (MAFF/Defra, UK)
  • Genetic Mapping of Apple (EU)
  • Genetic Mapping of Stone Fruit (EU)
  • Genetic Resources of Stone Fruit (EU)
  • Rosaceous Genomics (BBSRC, UK)
  • Rosaceous Genomics (Defra, UK)

Research Grants

  • British Council
  • Royal Horticultural Society
  • East Malling Research Association
  • Royal Society
  • Mount Trust

Scientific Output

  • h-index: 24
  • Author and co-author of numerous peer-reviewed publications in leading international journals including Theoretical & Applied Genetics, Molecular Genetics & Genomics, Plant Breeding, Euphytica, Tree Genetics & Genomes, and Journal of Experimental Botany.

His research has significantly advanced understanding of:

  • S-locus genetics in cherry, almond, apple, strawberry, and other Rosaceae species
  • Molecular mechanisms of gametophytic self-incompatibility
  • Development of allele-specific molecular markers
  • Linkage mapping in Prunus species
  • Application of molecular tools in fruit breeding

Several of his publications have been cited over 100 times, reflecting substantial international impact in plant genetics and breeding research.

Selected Peer-Reviewed Contributions

Dr. Bošković has authored and co-authored highly cited papers on:

  • Cloning and characterization of S-alleles in cherry and almond
  • Genetic mapping of Prunus species
  • Molecular basis of self-compatibility in almond
  • Ethylene biosynthesis and perception genes in apple
  • Inheritance and linkage of isoenzyme loci

(Complete publication list available upon request.)

Additional Academic Contributions

  • Conference presentations at major international symposia in plant genetics, horticulture, and molecular biology
  • Contributions to FAO and international horticultural newsletters
  • Development of molecular marker methodologies in Prunus breeding programs
  • Supervision and mentoring of graduate researchers