Walter Gassmann, professor in the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) Division of Plant Sciences, was recently named the director of the Bond Life Sciences Center (LSC).

Gassmann has served as the interim director at Bond LSC since July 2017. He is a member of the Interdisciplinary Plant Group (IPG), one of CAFNR’s Programs of Distinction. Gassmann joined the University of Missouri in 2000 as an assistant professor in the Division of Plant Sciences. He became an associate professor in 2006 and a professor in 2013.

Gassman’s research is aimed at understanding the function of an important class of plant genes. He and his colleagues are focusing on the Arabidopsis RPS4 gene specifying resistance to Pseudomonas syringae expressing the cognate avirulence gene avrRps4.

Gassmann received the Frederick B. Mumford Award for Outstanding Faculty during CAFNR’s 2020 virtual Celebration of Excellence awards celebration.

“Dr. Gassmann has been an active scientist at the center since its inception, and his collaborative research focuses on the inner workings of the plant immune system, in particular, how it is activated and kept in check to prevent harmful side effects from overactivity,” said Tom Spencer, interim vice chancellor for research and economic development, in a release announcing Gassmann’s new role. “His lab will continue its work as he officially moves into the permanent director role.”

Click here to read the official announcement from Spencer.