Dr. Donald J. Durzan was chair of the former UC Davis Department of Pomology from 1981 to 1985. He is remembered for groundbreaking research in conifer biochemistry and his contributions to the forestry industry, as well as to advances in fruit and nut crops.
First-of-its-kind research on the impact of California's resurgent population of protected gray wolves shows rising predation and costs to cattle ranchers. It underscores the need to move “toward some kind of coexistence,” rangelands specialist Ken Tate says.
Walnut trees don't need water early in the season. UC Davis scientists are field-testing a new method that lets the trees tell farmers when to start irrigation, saving time, money and a precious resource.
Geneticist and Professor Emeritus Carlos F. Quirós Raffo died Feb. 3 of lung cancer. A celebration of life will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 12, in Chula Vista, Calif. He is remembered as a devoted husband, father and friend.
The Horticulture Innovation Lab will end operations in April 2025. Scientists boosted fruit and vegetable sectors in Africa, Asia and Central America, training thousands of farmers and researchers. Innovations including storage and crop varieties improved food security and family incomes.
UC Davis researchers have created the most detailed pistachio genome map to date, aiding the development of more resilient and nutritious varieties. Their study also maps nut growth stages, helping farmers manage crops sustainably amid climate change challenges.
Department Chair Dan Potter has given the initial portion of a $125,000 gift to support students researching in the areas of plant diversity, classification and cultural uses. He invites you to participate through the UC Davis Give Day Challenge, open now.
Former department Chair Chris van Kessel and wife Betsy have given $500,000 to establish an endowment to help graduate students studying field crops. With the UC Davis Give Day Challenge now open, you can be a part of this life-changing, world-bettering opportunity!
Two graduate students the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences — Mia Godbey and Maya Shydlowski — took first place in poster contests at the annual California Plant and Soil conference in Visalia, Calif., hosted by University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources and the California chapter of the American Society of Agronomy.
Scientists have developed a new genetic tool that makes it easier and faster to breed grains that grow more efficiently and are better adapted to different environments. They're using a ground-breaking discovery: micro-RNA.
Central Valley pistachio farmer and industry leader Rod Stiefvater is donating more than $335,000 to develop new rootstocks that will thrive under changing climate conditions.
UC Davis is building on its record of creating an inclusive environment for all. The Department of Plant Sciences is contributing to the award-winning efforts, which were recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Four emerging scientists connected to the Department of Plant Sciences -- Forrest Li, Michele Nalle, Cree King and Jonathan Berlingeri -- have been named Borlaug Scholars for 2025 by the National Association for Plant Breeding.
A course that trains African scientists to use genetic tools to improve food production on the continent has begun its third round, with guidance and support from UC Davis. The African Plant Breeding Academy empowers scientists with cutting-edge tools like CRISPR to tackle complex agricultural challenges and support sustainability on their continent.
Department researchers are revealing important ways that universities, government agencies and other support organizations can help our food producers develop resilience to environmental challenges and remain profitable.
