Researchers in the Department of Plant Sciences found lab-based tissue culture leads to more somatic mutations. They suggest not leaving clones in culture for extended periods, and DNA review early in the process.
Arnold Bloom proposes a newly identified “Bloom cycle” within photorespiration, offering new insights for breeding crop plants that are productive, nutritious and resist pests amid warming temperatures.
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.
The inaugural Global Food Systems Research Day, held Oct. 24 at UC Davis, underscored the role of scientists in the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences in the effort to build sustainable agricultural and distribution systems providing nutritious and affordable food to people all over the world.
At a Kenya event, the African Orphan Crops Consortium planted a jackfruit tree to symbolize food security and peace. UC Davis' Allen Van Deynze and partners are breeding resilient orphan crops to help small farmers combat climate change and hunger.
UC Davis doctoral student Samjhana Khanal received a $50,000 Schlumberger Foundation grant for her research on disease-resistant lettuce using CRISPR. Her work aims to reduce crop losses and support sustainable agriculture, including in Nepal.
UC Davis’ SCOPE program develops new tomato, zinnia, wheat, and spinach varieties for small-scale organic farmers. Student breeders focus on traits like disease resistance, climate adaptation, and market appeal, collaborating with local growers.
Two undergraduates in the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences – Khushi Chawda and Deysi Alvaro Ceja – have been named to the Borlaug Scholars class of 2024. The National Association of Plant Breeders’ Borlaug scholarships pair students with an NAPB mentor.
AI is transforming food systems from plant breeding to nutrition. At UC Davis, researchers use AI to improve crop resilience, optimize processing, and enhance dietary insights, making agriculture more efficient, sustainable, and data-driven.
Marie Klein, a Ph.D. student in plant sciences at UC Davis, was named a 2023 Borlaug Scholar for her work in poplar genetics and renewable jet fuel. The award offers career mentoring and supports her global research goals.
