Transformation refers to the tools to introduce functional foreign genes into plant species.
The decision to begin research at the URI campus was made to take advantage of synergies that are expected to benefit both parties. A major consideration in ABT's decision to integrate its programs at URI is the university's new Environmental Biotechnology Initiative that is designed to build capacity for environmental and agricultural biotechnology in the university and the state through enhanced research investment, academic programs and links to the business community. Work at the ABT laboratory at URI will focus on forage and turfgrass seed species. He is the author of important published work in the areas of molecular biology and plant transformation. He is also the author or co-author of twelve patents in these areas.