Faculty

TOM GRADZIEL 2055 Wickson Hall (530) 752-1575 tmgradziel@ucdavis.edu

Ph.D. (1987) Plant Breeding, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY   Membership in Graduate Groups: Horticulture & Agronomy, Plant Biology, Genetics,  International Agricultural Development.  More Information:  Cling Peach Index Almond Index

My research goal is to develop the genetic elements of integrated solutions to the serious problems facing the Prunus tree crop industries brought about by losses of agri-chemicals, labor, and good crop land. Three areas have been identified where genetic improvements offer promise for resolving production problems: brown rot of clingstone peach, aflatoxin contamination of almond, and pollination efficacy in almond. Methods of gene transfer utilized include intergeneric and interspecific introgression, intraspecific hybridization, and genetic transformation via Agrobacterium spp., particle bombardment, and pollen mediated transfer of exotic genes. More efficient gene introgression and gene identification are being pursued through the application of a low density Prunus linkage map using DNA and phenotypic markers.

My lab is attempting to circumvent regeneration barriers in recalcitrant woody tree cultivars by targeting meristem competent tissue for transformation. Procedures are being developed to sort out inevitable genetic mosaics and to stabilize mosaics as epidermal chimeras. Resulting capability to synthesize genetically binary organs and tissue would provide a very powerful tool for crop improvement as well as for studying the basic nature of cell-tissue and tissue-tissue interactions in plant development.