Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology

Dr. Timothy C. Hall, Distinguished Professor, Department of Biology
Dr. John Yu, Research Geneticist, USDA-ARS

Food and fiber are mainstays of economic prosperity. Texas A&M University has leading researchers in the areas of genomics and biotechnology of rice and cotton, and many interactions already exist with Chinese scientists and laboratories. Expansion of these activities through roundtable discussions and subsequent funding opportunities would be very beneficial to both Chinese and American scientists. The following issues will be addressed in the proposed roundtable: 1) The use of transgenic plants for improvement in cotton and rice production; 2) Ways in which integrated physical and genetic maps for cotton and rice can provide opportunities for germplasm improvement and new variety development; 3) Effects of global climate change on rice growth, development, and productivity; and 4) The role of insect systematics, biocontrol, prediction modeling and resistance management in developing and delivering plant protection.