Biomass and Biofuels

Gene “boosts” hope for plant-based jet fuel, plentiful food

A team of scientists, including Gail Taylor of the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences, has identified a gene in poplar trees that enhances photosynthesis and can boost tree height by as much as 200 percent. Discovery of the “Booster” gene has enormous potential for both the nation’s efforts to create plant-based jet fuel and to boost the yield of key food crops.

Gail Taylor

  • Distinguished Professor Emerita, Former Chair of the Department of Plant Sciences and past John B. Orr Professor of Environmental Plant Sciences (2020-2024)
  • Emeriti
Plant adaptation to a changing climate, genetics and genomics of leafy salad crops, non-food woody biomass crops for bioenergy. Sustainability, ecosystem services, plants and the Sustainable Development Goals.
1210 PES
UC Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis CA 95616

Daniel H. Putnam

  • Professor Emeritus of Cooperative Extension
Alfalfa and forage crop systems, cellulosic biofuels, crop ecology, new/alternative crops and cropping systems. Strong interest in irrigation, salinity, forage quality, genetics & varieties.
2240 PES
UC Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis CA 95616