| Novartis
gives $200,000 to Seed Biotechnology Center |
June 9, 2000
University of California, Davis
New teaching, research and extension facilities are nearer to reality with a gift of $200,000 from
Novartis Seeds to the
UC Davis Seed Biotechnology Center.
Novartis Seeds is one of nearly a dozen seed and plant biotechnology firms thus far to contribute to the $1.5
million center, which will begin construction in 2001.
Dr. Michael Pauly, Research Director, Technology for Novartis Seeds, Inc., presented the gift to Dr. Neal Van Alfen, Dean
of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, in a recent ceremony on the UC Davis campus. "Novartis Seeds is
committed to achieving genetic solutions for the produce industry and recognizes the importance of biotechnology in
achieving that goal," says Pauly. "Universities are vital to our efforts because they conduct leading-edge research,
provide training for highly skilled scientists and help educate the public about new technologies.
For all these reasons, we are pleased to support the Seed Biotechnology
Center at UC Davis."
The Seed Biotechnology Center will promote collaboration among university and industry scientists in many fields,
including seed biology, plant pathology, molecular biology, entomology, agricultural economics and agricultural
engineering. As part of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, the center will also focus on
research, education and public outreach. The center will provide numerous educational opportunities, including
industry short-courses, workshops and conferences related to seed biology, production and technology. It will also work
toenhance public understanding of issues surrounding seed biotechnology.
"Most U.S. and international seed companies have research and production facilities in California because of the state's
optimum growing conditions," said Dr.
Kent Bradford, center director, vegetable crops professor and international
authority on seed physiology. "The wide range of industry representation, combined with the research and outreach
expertise at UC Davis, make this the ideal location for the Seed Biotechnology Center. We appreciate the support of
Novartis Seeds and look forward to working with the seed industry to develop safe and effective methods
for increasing crop yield and quality."
Novartis Seeds is part of Novartis, a world leader in life
sciences with core businesses in pharmaceuticals, consumer health, generics, eye care, and animal health. In 1999, the
Swiss-based firm (including Agribusiness) achieved sales of $21.7 billion and invested more than $2.8 billion in research
and development.
UC Davis news release
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