Hello and thanks for visiting my web page

I am a University Distinguished Professor housed in the Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society at Oregon State University, and have a joint appointment in the interdepartmental Molecular and Cellular Biology Program . I am also the creator and Director of the Tree Biosafety and Genomics Research Cooperative (TBGRC) at OSU, a university-industry consortium conducting research on genetically engineered trees that might be useful in forestry, bioenergy, and horticulture. I direct the OSU Program for Outreach in Resource Biotechnology , aimed at promoting public understanding of biotechnology issues.

I earned degrees in biological sciences from Cornell, Yale, and the University of California at Berkeley; published more than 160 scientific papers; given more than 160 invited lectures; and earned several million dollars in research grants. I served on a number of scientific review panels at the United States National Research Council, National Science Foundation, and Department of Agriculture.

My research is focused on genomics and genetic engineering in eucalypts and poplar trees. My focus areas presently are:

1. Modification of flowering to reduce environmental and social concerns over gene flow from genetically engineered trees.
2. Description of epigengenetic variation in the poplar genome during its growth and development (http://poplar-epigenomics.cgrb.oregonstate.edu/).
3. The use of gibberellin signaling genes for modifying plant growth rate and form.
4. The production of biological plastics in tree leaves, as a possible renewable and carbon-netural feedstock.

I also study how government regulations affect the ability to do research and use genetic engineering for public and economic benefit, and am actively involved in public outreach and teaching about crop biotechnology generally. I teach in and coordinate an interdisciplinary course to give students and the public scientifically reliable information about the use of genes and chemicals in agriculture and natural resources.

I mentor high school, undergraduate, and graduate students on the potential of biotechnology to improve productivity and environmental soundness of agriculture and forestry, as well as about its ecological risks, social and legal issues, and ethical complexities. The laboratory usually hires or hosts several student research interns, especially in summer.

When not at work, I am a soccer referee at the high school and competitive club level, play tennis, hike, and run—all for fitness and relaxation. I prefer to walk and run in the many lovely forests and parks in Corvallis and the Oregon Cascade Mountains.

See the links on this page for more information on Dr. Strauss' research, publications, teaching, and university environment.

This information was last updated January 1, 2010.