This spring, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) welcomed six new faculty members, advancing the college’s commitment to pursuing purpose-driven science and improving the lives of people across New York state and around the world.

From breeding plants for more sustainable cropping systems to understanding how cells protect DNA from damage, learn more about what drives their research, teaching and extension activities in this Q&A series.

• Joyce G. Chery, Plant Biology Section of the School of Integrative Plant Science, investigates the evolution of woody vines, or lianas, which she refers to as “the boa constrictors of the plant kingdom.”
• J. Brooks Crickard, Department of Molecular and Genetics, examines how cells protect and repair their DNA from damage — seeking to protect genomic integrity and prevent the development of cancer.
• Heather Feaga, Department of Microbiology, studies how bacteria translate genetic code into protein — knowledge that can ultimately be used to identify new antibiotics.
• Lori Huberman, Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology Section of the School of Integrative Plant Science, researches the way in which fungi sense and respond to their environment, behavior that helps them exploit nutrient resources and break down plant material.
• Matt Marx, Bruce F. Failing Sr. Professor of Entrepreneurship, focuses on reducing the barriers to the commercialization of science and technology. He operates a database that links patents to scientific articles and reveals the heritage of innovation.
• Virginia Moore, Plant Breeding and Genetics Section of the School of Integrative Plant Science, is a plant breeder whose overall goal is to help increase the feasibility for farmers to adopt more sustainable practices.

Read more about the new faculty on the CALS website.

Jana Wiegand is the editorial content manager for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.