BioDiagnostics, Inc., a leader in genetic purity and standard germination seed testing, is proud to announce the addition of Chandra-Shekara A.C., Ph.D., as Research and Development Scientist. This is an important step in BioDiagnostics’ ongoing commitment to provide innovative DNA-based technologies to its customers.

“Hiring Dr. Chandra-Shekara strengthens BioDiagnostics’ goal of hiring professionals committed to fostering innovation through research excellence. He will not only lead and strengthen our research and development sector, but he will also create new DNA-based technologies that can be commercialized,” said Michael Thompson, Manager of DNA Technologies. “Filling this position represents a solid commitment to delivering our mission of creating innovative solutions to meet the changing needs of the seed industry and of our customers.”

With a doctorate of genetics from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Dehli, India, Chandra-Shekara brings a wide range of research experience to BioDiagnostics. Chandra-Shekara performed postdoctoral research in plant molecular biology and plant pathology at the University of Kentucky. Through his research, Chandra-Shekara identified a novel fatty acid mediated resistance mechanism (patent pending) that aides in the prevention of disease in agricultural crops. Chandra-Shekara is widely published and has contributed to the book “Advances in Virus Research” and has published articles in international journals such as Euphytica, Field Crops Research, Journal of Plant Biochemistry and Biotechnology, and Plant Journal. In addition to Chandra-Shekara’s published research, he is the recipient of numerous awards and scholarships, including recognition by the American Phytopathological Society and invitations to present at international scientific conferences. His work is also incorporated into course curriculum at Purdue University and Lanzhou University, China.

BioDiagnostics, Inc. (BDI) is the chosen partner and trusted authority for the agricultural seed industry. With its
thorough perspective of the biotech landscape and a keen awareness of current industry challenges, BDI helps
clients determine ‘best practices’ in seed production. BDI offers excellence and expertise in seed testing, combining a full line of genetic purity and germination tests with state-of-the-art instrumentation throughout its  20,000 sq. ft. facility located in River Falls, Wisconsin. As the nation’s first USDA accredited testing lab, BDI has continued to raise the standard in seed testing by combining professional expertise, state-of-the-art technology and expert consultation for more than 10 years.