Sunil Kumar Kenchanmane Raju, an agronomy graduate student specializing in plant breeding and genetics, was awarded the distinguished Henry M. Beachell Fellowship.
Kumar’s current research involves utilizing induced epigenetic variation in plant breeding. His work on soybeans is providing valuable insights into understanding the potential of using MSH1-derived epigenome changes in developing lines with enhanced yield and yield stability. His work on Arabidopsis, a model plant, is helping to understand the role of abiotic stress in enhancing epigenomic plasticity that can be used in breeding for agronomically important traits.
Kumar is advised by Sally Mackenzie, Ralph and Alice Raikes Professor of Agronomy and Horticulture.
This fellowship recognizes academic excellence and research potential in the agronomic and horticultural sciences. Beachell, a plant breeder and native Nebraskan, graduated from the department in 1930. He received the 1996 World Food Prize in honor of his contributions in the alleviation of world hunger.
