The world's largest federation of scientists is honoring a K- State researcher for his work to ensure the genetic stock for developing future wheat. The American Association for the Advancement of Science has awarded the distinction of Fellow to Bikram S. Gill, university distinguished professor of plant pathology and director of the Wheat Genetics Resource Center. Scientists are elevated to the rank of Fellow because of their efforts toward advancing science or fostering applications that are deemed scientifically or socially distinguished. Gill has directed the K-State Wheat Genetics Resource Center since 1984. The center, part of the department of plant pathology, maintains a large collection of wheat germplasm.
Researchers evaluate the samples for genetic potential to enhance future wheat lines.
Wild relatives of modern wheat relatives contain reservoirs of genes that scientists can draw upon in order to improve wheat lines. Such ancient genetic material bred into today's wheat varieties might bestow improved tolerance or resistance, for example. Bikram Gill joined the K-State faculty in 1979 as assistant professor. He earned the rank of associate professor in 1982 and of professor in 1987. The university honored him in 1997 as University Distinguished Professor, its highest distinction.