Agricultural Research Award goes to molecular ecologist
Andrew DeWoody
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Andrew DeWoody, a professor in Purdue University's Department of Forestry & Natural Resources, is the winner of the 2011 Purdue Agricultural Research Award for his work at the interface of genetics and ecology.
The Agricultural Research Award is given each year to a faculty member in the College of Agriculture with less than 15 years of experience beyond a doctoral degree. It is for scientists who have demonstrated a high level of excellence in research and made significant contributions to agriculture, natural resources and quality of life for Indiana citizens.
"Andrew's research combines cutting-edge techniques in genetics and genomics with conservation biology and molecular evolution," said Karen Plaut, associate dean and director of Purdue Agricultural Research Programs. "He has helped us to develop our thinking and practices to maintain biodiversity for the future. He has impacted many other scientists and mentored a cadre of students that will undoubtedly have an impact on our future."
DeWoody's research in genetics has covered a wide range of life - from land mammals, to aquatic life, to birds. He has created methods to understand mating systems in fish and developed tests that allow scientists to more easily study endangered or threatened species through DNA.
"Andrew has made exceptional contributions in the areas of wildlife, fisheries and aquatic science through his research that helps answer genetic questions about wildlife species, populations and their habitats," said Jay Akridge, Purdue's Glenn W. Sample Dean of Agriculture. "He is most deserving of our college's top research award."
DeWoody said he enjoys working in genetics because he can often eliminate doubt about research findings.
"I like the way genetics can be used to get crisp, clean answers," DeWoody said. "Genetics can give answers to otherwise intractable questions that you wouldn't be able to solve any other way."
The award includes a plaque, a $1,500 award from the Charles Guthrie Patterson Memorial Endowment and Matthew Morgan Hamilton Funds, and $10,000 for the recipient's research program.
Writer: Brian Wallheimer, 765-496-2050, bwallhei@purdue.edu
Sources: Jay Akridge, 765-494-8391, akridge@purdue.edu
Karen Plaut, 765-494-8362, kplaut@purdue.edu
Andrew DeWoody, 765-496-6109, dewoody@purdue.edu
Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722;
Keith Robinson, robins89@purdue.edu
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