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"As Director for Biotechnology in International Programs/CALS, I lead a global, comprehensive, and highly collaborative program to: (i) promote the safe and effective use of agricultural biotechnology as a tool in improving food security and agricultural productivity; (ii) address technical, regulatory, communications and intellectual property issues affecting the adoption of biotechnology; (iii) assess the socioeconomic, health and environmental impacts of biotechnology and; (iv) build national capacities in developing countries to facilitate efficient and safe management and regulation of biotechnology.
The work involves elements of Cornell's research, extension, and education activities that range from enhancing the nutritional value of crops and increasing the food supply to controlling or preventing disease in animals.
I interact with faculty and administrators at Cornell and other U.S. universities to catalyze international collaboration and consortium-building among biotechnology stakeholders. The latter include other universities, private companies, non-governmental organizations, national agricultural research systems, regional organizations, international research centers, farmersí organizations, advanced research institutions, international development agencies and investment banks, the media, and representatives of the public.
As an International Professor of Plant Breeding (Adjunct), I plan to teach at the advanced undergraduate and graduate levels on issues associated with international biotechnology. Details are under discussion.
In addition to conducting my work at Cornell, I consult extensively with private and public sector clients in industrialized and developing countries."