“Driving innovation and sustainability in Jamaica’s sugar industry through research, protection, and development.”
The Research Projects Branch of the Sugar Industry Authority (SIA) is the driving force behind innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness in Jamaica’s sugar industry. Bringing together three specialized areas — Extension Services, Variety Development, and Plant Protection — the Branch blends applied research with practical field support to address industry challenges.
For decades, the Branch has been dedicated to strengthening sugarcane cultivation by developing new, high-yielding varieties, protecting crops from pests and diseases, and providing farmers and estates with the technical knowledge needed to succeed. Its laboratories, breeding fields, and biological control facilities allow staff to carry out advanced research while staying connected to the needs of growers.
Among its many achievements are the development of over 50 commercial cane varieties (with 23 currently in use), the release of three new varieties in 2025, and the successful establishment of a Biological Control Programme that has reduced sugarcane borer infestations across the island. Farmers, manufacturers, consumers, and export partners all benefit from the Branch’s work, which ensures a reliable, sustainable sugar supply. Through training sessions, stakeholder workshops, technical bulletins, and research publications, the Branch remains deeply engaged with the public while securing the future of Jamaica’s sugar industry.
Three Specialized Units
Extension Services
Bridging research and practice — empowering farmers and estates with knowledge that works in the field.
Learn MoreVariety Development
Fifty years of breeding excellence — delivering resilient, high-yielding cane varieties for Jamaica’s future.
Learn MorePlant Protection
Safeguarding sugarcane health through science, surveillance, and sustainable pest management.
Learn MoreStaff
The Research Projects Branch is led by a multidisciplinary team of researchers, agronomists, and technical support staff working across Extension Services, Variety Development, and Plant Protection.
Uriel Green
Leads the Variety Development Department in breeding and selection programmes.
Cernard Coleman
Specializes in agronomic evaluation of new cane varieties.
Rennix Dixon
Supports breeding and field evaluation across the cane-growing regions.
Anion Gilpin
Supports breeding and field evaluation across the cane-growing regions.
Callie Brown
Leads field operations and variety trials at breeding sites.
Damion Neath
Leads the Plant Protection Unit’s research, surveillance, and biological control programmes.
Damel Swaby
Supports diagnostics, surveillance, and biological control laboratory work.
Kenton Gayle
Provides transportation and logistical support to the Research Projects Branch.