The Center for Research on Programmable Plant Systems (CROPPS) is excited to welcome Liz Jones as the Center’s first Assistant Director for Research. Jones brings more than 20 years of experience in research management and scientific leadership, specializing in molecular and genomic applications that drive innovation in agriculture.

In her role at CROPPS, Jones will coordinate research activities across interdisciplinary teams based at six research institutions: Cornell University, Boyce Thompson Institute, Colorado State University, Tuskegee University, the University of Arizona, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She will work closely with CROPPS principal investigators and research leads to develop and manage translational research for CROPPS technologies, and ensure timely delivery of project milestones. With her proven expertise in collaboration and team management, Jones will also enhance CROPPS’ collaborative research culture as part of its focus on team science.