In conversation with Professor Yan Jianbing
Cell Press takes great pleasure in welcoming Professor Yan Jianbing to share his vision for the future of sustainable agriculture. We warmly invite researchers worldwide to join us at the Cell Symposia on sustainable agriculture and explore new frontiers together!
Prof. Yan examines crop growth at a maize breeding base in Hainan
(Photo: Jan 2023, courtesy of Huazhong Agricultural University)
About Prof. Yan Jianbing
- Professor & Doctoral Supervisor, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University
- President of Huazhong Agricultural University
- Research focus: crop genetics, molecular breeding, functional genomics, and domestication genetics of maize
- Published multiple groundbreaking findings in top-tier journals including Cell
Q&A with Prof. Yan Jianbing
Cell Press: What is your perspective on the field of plant/agricultural research? How do you value research efforts in this field?
Prof. Yan Jianbing: Agricultural research is profoundly significant for both humanity and the planet. Its foremost contribution lies in safeguarding food security. Besides, it will continue to play a pivotal role in ensuring health and advancing sustainable development. The mission of our Hubei Hongshan Laboratory is to “provide abundant food that nourishes both human and the Earth”.
Cell Press: What do you think are the most inspiring breakthroughs in this field for the past few years?
Prof. Yan Jianbing: From my point of view, there are three most inspiring breakthroughs.
- Gene editing – dramatically accelerating genetic improvements in crops and livestock.
- Intelligent agricultural machinery – drone technology revolutionizing farming practices.
- Artificial intelligence – though still in its infancy, already transforming agricultural research and production.
Cell Press: What do you perceive as the most critical challenge currently facing this field?
Prof. Yan Jianbing: The paramount challenge lies in the growing disconnect between fundamental research and practical implementation in agriculture. A vast number of our foundational research findings are yet to be effectively translated into tangible agricultural applications. This stems from misalignments in research objectives, paradigms, and methodologies. Agricultural research, particularly fundamental studies, is in bad need of transformation and has not yet delivered.
Cell Press: What are your expectations for this symposium?
Professor Yan Jianbing: I wish this Cell Symposia will bring together global plant and agricultural scientists for rigorous discussions and exchange of ideas, and showcases more technological innovation, especially innovative industrial applications.
Join us at the Cell Symposia: Towards sustainable agriculture: Genomics, bioengineering, and smart technologies and be part of the conversation shaping the future of food and farming.