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Thompson new head of OSU department of biochemistry and molecular biology
STILLWATER, Okla. – Gary A. Thompson has been appointed head of the Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources’ department of biochemistry and molecular biology at Oklahoma State University, effective Aug. 1.
“Dr. Thompson’s leadership experience as well as his applied research programs and successful extramural funding record make him uniquely qualified for department head. He brings a wealth of land-grant experience and an outstanding record of accomplishments and leadership to the position,” said Robert E. Whitson, vice president, dean and director of agricultural programs at OSU. “We are very pleased that he is joining our agricultural leadership team.”
As department head, Thompson will provide leadership for planning, developing, integrating and implementing departmental teaching, research, extension and international programs; diversity efforts of the department to recruit and retain outstanding faculty, staff and students; and the pursuit of competitive grants, research contracts, gifts and other special funding to include endowments for scholarships, fellowships, chairs and professorships.
Thompson comes to OSU from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where he served in several important leadership roles for the UA Division of Agriculture since 2000.
“I am excited about becoming part of the OSU community and for the opportunity to work with the excellent faculty and staff in the department of biochemistry and molecular biology,” Thompson said.
Thompson received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska in 1979, his master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin in 1985, and his doctoral degree from Purdue University in 1989, and was a Postdoctoral Fellow in the department of plant sciences at the University of Arizona.
Thompson has held consecutive summer appointments as a visiting research professor in the department of plant biology at the Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 2003 through 2005.
His research has focused on the molecular biology of plant vascular systems and plant responses to insects that feed on the food-conducting tissues of plants.
He is a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, American Society of Plant Physiologists, Alpha Zeta and Gamma Sigma Delta.
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REPORTER/MEDIA CONTACT:
Janet F. Reeder, BA, MS
Agricultural Communications Services
Communications Specialist
142 Agriculture North
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK 74078
Phone: 405-744-3651
Fax: 405-744-5739
E-Mail: janet.reeder@okstate.edu
Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.
