Translational Plant Science

The ultimate goal of plant research is to improve the human condition. In many ways, the most significant stumbling block is not the research and discovery process but the ability to translate this science to agriculture and commercial products. Many academic institutions, however, lack the resources for translational science. Carrying out proof of concept experiments and field trials, especially in developing nations, carry great expense and is generally not well-supported by conventional funding agencies. There are also complications with securing proper intellectual property for each potential product. In many developing nations, onerous or undeveloped regulatory mechanisms serve as a major barrier.

The Danforth Center is committed to moving our discoveries from the laboratories to the field. For products with commercial potential, the Danforth Center teams with biotech companies within the region and around the world to fund research and development. We also encourage the development of startup companies that can attract investor funding. For products that can benefit developing nations, we seek partnerships with private foundations and institutions in the home country to help move projects forward.

Labs conducting research in this area include:

Roger Beachy Lab
Mark Manary Lab
Dilip Shah Lab
Thomas Smith Lab
Sam Wang Lab
Office of International Programs