The Seed Biotechnology Center at the University of California Davis
recognizes University Research Partner
Dr. Allen Van Deynze

Dr. Allen Van Deynze is a Professional Researcher in the Department of Plant Sciences and the Director of Research for the Seed Biotechnology Center at the University of California, Davis.

Dr. Van Deynze’s research interests focus on development of tools for plant breeding and the seed industry. Specifically, his laboratory works on development of DNA markers and high-throughput analysis of DNA markers in tomato, cotton, carrot, potato, pepper and lettuce. The laboratory is also involved in development of transgenic crops. Several collaborative projects Dr. Van Deynze has recently been involved in include:

• A whole genome approach to marker discovery in lettuce, in collaboration with Rijk Zwaan, Vilmorin, Enza Zaden and the UC Discovery grant.

• Ecology and development of switchgrass for bioenergy in California in collaboration with Ceres Inc.

• Gene flow analysis of Pima and Acala cotton in partnership with the California Crop Improvement Association and Cotton Incorporated.

• Solanaceae Coordinated Agricultural Project (SOLCAP) to translate genomic research in potato and tomato in collaboration with four other universities. Funding is provided by the USDA/NRI.

In addition to his research activities at the SBC, Dr. Van Deynze conducts a diverse range of outreach activities for the Center, teaches short courses related to plant breeding and molecular markers, and is actively involved in biotechnology regulations at the national and international levels. Dr. Van Deynze is a co-founder of the Plant Breeding Academy.

For further discussions with Dr. Van Deynze, please contact him directly at avandeynze@ucdavis.edu.