Alexandria, Virginia, USA
January 12, 2012

Internationally known for his innovative work in both basic and applied plant science, and for his ability to take new technologies to the consumer marketplace, David Clark will discuss "Consumer-Assisted Selection of Flowers and Vegetables that Appeal to Human Senses" Jan. 24 during the American Seed Trade Association's Vegetable & Flower Seed Conference in Tampa, Fla.

A University of Florida professor of Floriculture Biotechnology in the Environmental Horticulture Department, Clarks' research focuses on developing flowers and plants that have maximum sensory appeal to human. Recently, he developed the UF Plant Innovation Program, a multidisciplinary group that has established the concept of using "Consumer Assisted Selection" for developing new plants for future consumers. The group comprises expertise in the human olfactory sensing, food science and human nutrition, plant science, consumer science and business development to develop innovative new products.

His academic group is widely recognized as a leading force focusing on the genetic improvement of floral crops. In the basic science arena, his group was the first to produce genetically-engineered plants with flowers that last twice as long as normal flowers. Building on that success, his lab engineered plants to not only producer larger flowers, but also to produce leaves that remain green longer, and to enhance floral fragrance.

To learn more about Clark and his research, join ASTA for the 51st Vegetable and Flower Seed Conference Jan. 21-24. More about the conference and registration information is available at http://www.amseed.org/mtg_vegflo12_intro.asp. 

For questions and additional information, contact Jennifer Crouse, ASTA director of meetings and services, at 703-837-8140 or jcrouse@amseed.org.  
 

Website: http://www.betterseed.org/

Published: January 12, 2012