Exploited the feeding biology of subterranean termites that led to Dow’s Sentricon® termite control system. Dr. Nan-Yao Su’s research revolutionized the way subterranean termites are controlled.

Characterized and overcame mineral deficiencies in livestock species. Dr. George Davis’ research findings saved the Florida beef cattle industry, and he was the first scientist from UF elected to the National Academy of Sciences.

Developed and released ‘Florunner’ peanut in 1969. Florunner generated a significant yield advantage over other cultivars and was the foundation of future elite peanut cultivar releases.

Developed the Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT) crop model that identifies management practices for maximum productivity. It is currently used worldwide to manage 42 distinct crops.

Greatly impacted Florida’s tropical foliage plant industry through cultivar development; fertilization, water and temperature; disease and pest management; contributions to shipping and transportation; and indoor lighting research.

Released the Centennial soybean in the 1980s, the first soybean cultivar resistant to soybean root knot and soybean cyst nematode. It was planted on more acreage in the Southeast than any other soybean cultivar.

Provided the first comprehensive studies on the host-feeding patterns of mosquitos in the Southeast U.S. that formed the basis of effective mosquito control.

Developed the genetic material for a vast majority of Florida’s 4 million acres of planted pine.

Established the folic acid requirement during pregnancy that led to the establishment of food fortification procedures worldwide to prevent birth defects.

Saved soybean farmers approximately $300 million per year by combatting Asian soybean rust through integrated pest management programs, monitoring the annual spread of the disease, and working with breeders to develop disease resistant plants.

Developed the UF Critical Thinking Inventory (UFCTI) in the early 2000s, an assessment that measures critical thinking style on a continuum.

Developed the coleus breeding program that has produced 55 cultivars, 10 U.S. Plant Patents, and seven U.S. Trademarks. More than 25 million coleus plants have been sold on four continents.

Originally an extension unit, the department now has an undergraduate program, a master’s program, and a PhD program helping achieve careers in human service, community development, cooperative extension, and youth professions.

Developed cutting-edge science and management tools to protect water quality and influence policy. This included remediation of contaminated soil and water, and establishing best management practices for urban and agricultural systems.

Populated leadership positions internationally, including directors of the national wildlife agencies in Mexico and Uganda, and the current Minister of State in Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development in Belize.

Guided the development of crop production practices that made citrus Florida’s iconic agricultural commodity, including improved irrigation and fertilization programs, freeze protection practices, and pest and disease management practices.

Genetically engineered E. coli bacteria to produce biofuels and chemicals using farm and forest waste.

Developed mass-rearing techniques for sterile fruit fly release that led to the biological control of Caribbean fruit flies throughout the U.S. and prevented significant crop damage.

Developed, evaluated, and disseminated forage cultivars and sustainable management practices for subtropical and tropical cattle grazing ecosystems.

Developed and implemented Best Management Practices for Florida water quality and use by focusing on water volume, sediment transport, pesticides and metals, nutrients, and aquatic weeds.

If you would like a hard-copy of these accomplishments, contact Mary Anne Sanders at mary.sanders@ufl.edu.