Thomas Ranney
J.C. Raulston Distinguished Professor | Program Leader of the Mountain Crop Improvement Lab
828-585-3579 [email protected]Bio
Bio
Tom is the JC Raulston Distinguished Professor of Horticultural Science at NC State University, where he leads a research program at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center in Mills River, NC. His research program focuses on the evaluation, selection, production, and development of new landscape, bioenergy, and specialty crops. His lab has produced a broad array of research publications (310) and new cultivars (82), resulting in economic development and competitive advantages for the horticultural industry. He has mentored many students (52 graduate students and 26 undergraduate interns) who have become successful faculty members, scientists, teachers, horticulturists, and plant breeders across the country. In collaboration with their partner, Spring Meadow Nursery, they have raised over $1.2 million for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation through the sales of their Invincibelle™ hydrangeas. Tom lives his motto of “Growing a greener and more prosperous world.”
Area of Specialization
Research (100%): Evaluation, improvement, and production of nursery and specialty crops. Major research areas include:
- Development of new nursery and specialty crops with greater adaptability, pest resistance, and commercial potential.
- Enhancing production efficiency and quality of crops.
- Basic research and technology development in plant science, cytogenetics, biotechnology, and reproductive biology.
Additional Information