Early farmers grew enough crops to feed themselves and their animals. A twenty-first century farm produces crops that feed populations around the world. The Department of Crop Sciences has played a large part in making Illinois a leading exporter of grain. The department offers a broad range of study and research opportunities ranging from cropping systems, plant breeding, and pest management to biometry, molecular genetics, and bioinformatics.
Research objectives of the department include the improvement of crops and soil-crop management; developing disease, insect, and weed management strategies for crops; discovering useful genes from new or unique sources to improve crops; and protecting the environment. All these endeavors can flourish with funding.
The department remains locally relevant with outdoor laboratories located in each of Illinois’ different major climate zones. It oversees the Plant Clinic, serving the people of Illinois for more than 20 years, and it provides leadership in more than 30 outreach and Extension programs.
Senior Director of Development
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