For many years the size and complexity of the wheat, barley and rye genomes have hampered the development of genomics and its application to produce Triticeae crops with improved composition and characteristics. Recently, however, new and more efficient scientific capabilities and resources have been developed that allows robust genomic programs to be established for the Triticeae.

TriticeaeGenome project (Genomics for Triticeae improvement) is designed to achieve significant progresses in Triticeae genomics and support efficient breeding of improved varieties for the European agriculture. This European project was launched on 1st June 2008, for a duration of 4 years, and mobilises 14 European research institutes and 2 industrial partners, from 9 different countries. TriticeaeGenome will receive 5.3 million Euros in funding over a four-year period, from the 7th European Union Framework Programme under the "Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, Biotechnology" priority.