Position Title
In Memoriam
Professor Emeritus, Department Chair
1928-2022
LAWRENCE “LARRY” RAPPAPORT
Birth: May 28, 1928, New York City, New York
Death: October 5, 2022, Davis, California
Education
- B.S., University of Idaho
- Ph.D., Horticulture, Michigan State University
- U.S. Army service in Korea, Battalion Sergeant Major
Employment
- Faculty Member, Department of Vegetable Crops, UC Davis, 1956–1991
- Department Chair, Department of Vegetable Crops, UC Davis, 1978-1984
- Founder, UC Davis Plant Growth Laboratory
- Emeritus Professor, Department of Plant Sciences, UC Davis, 1991–2022
Research Contributions and Impact
Rappaport’s early work in postharvest physiology focused on storage and dormancy in crops such as potatoes. He became a pioneer in the study of gibberellin action in plant growth and development, particularly in hormonal regulation and tissue culture. At UC Davis, he created the Plant Growth Laboratory, an interdisciplinary center that laid the groundwork for plant biotechnology and genetic engineering research, contributing to the innovations that later produced the Flavr Savr tomato.
Publications and Scholarly Leadership
In addition to his scientific publications, Rappaport co-led a major international project in Egypt aimed at improving vegetable production, where research and extension efforts helped triple tomato yields. His administrative leadership revitalized the Vegetable Crops Department by recruiting a new generation of faculty across genetics, physiology, and crop management.
Teaching and Mentorship
Rappaport was a dedicated instructor of plant growth and development. His teaching career spanned a period of surging student enrollment in agriculture, and he inspired many students to pursue plant science research and careers in agriculture. He was known for strong mentorship and support of young faculty and graduate students.
Collaboration and Community
Beyond campus, Rappaport was deeply engaged in the Davis community. He and his wife, Norma, co-founded Congregation Bet Haverim and helped establish Hillel of Davis and Sacramento, supporting Jewish students. He was also a founder of the Davis Human Relations Council, advocating for tolerance and diversity.
Legacy
Rappaport left a lasting legacy as a scientist, educator, and community leader. His contributions to postharvest physiology, plant hormones, and biotechnology shaped modern plant science. His leadership renewed UC Davis’s Vegetable Crops program, while his community engagement built institutions that continue to serve Davis and UC students.
References
For additional tributes, interviews, and biographies, see the following resources: