On the Vine - January

Members of the Taylor lab in a Danforth Center greenhouse.

Resilience for Rwanda

The Danforth Center is part of a new international initiative to develop high-yielding pest-and disease-resistant varieties of three Rwanda staple crops: cassava, maize, and potatoes. Through research and collaboration, the program hopes to get these improved crops into farmers’ hands and benefit more than 500,000 farm households. Read more.

SuperCrop

Sorghum is a remarkable crop, and it could help save the world. Recently, several Danforth Center scientists traveled around Texas to discuss the modern significance of this ancient grain, explain the sorghum research taking place at the Center, and forge connections to harness the crop’s game-changing potential. Read more.

In the Media: Dr. Jim Carrington on KMOX

KMOX News recently invited Danforth Center President & CEO Jim Carrington, PhD, to talk innovation, impact, and the future of St. Louis. “You can think of the Danforth Center as a scientific engine but also as an economic engine,” he said. Listen to the full interview.

Meet the Scientists: Getu Beyene Duguma

Growing up on a farm in Ethiopia, Dr. Getu Duguma understood the importance of plants from an early age. Today, through his work to improve crops like cassava and teff, he is helping to better the lives of smallholder farmers like his parents. Learn more about Getu’s life and career.

Katie Murphy and Clara Lebow at the Kernals of Culture exhibit.

In the Media: Kernels of Culture

Dr. Katie Murphy was featured in a KMOV-TV segment about the Kernels of Culture exhibit at the Missouri Botanical Garden. The exhibit highlights her efforts, alongside others at the Center, to breed better, healthier corn varieties—and tells the fascinating history of this a-maize-ing crop. Exhibit closes March 31. Watch the segment.

Become a Perennial Partner

Recurring gifts drive progress. By giving to the Center monthly, quarterly, or annually, you’ll provide steady funding for research, STEM education, and the training of young scientists—ensuring these efforts continue year-round. Even small, regular contributions help bring us closer to a better world. Set up a recurring gift today.