58th Annual Vegetable & Flower Seed Conference

Robert Pyne
Plant Breeder
Van Drunen Farms


Robert Pyne received a PhD in Plant Breeding and Genetics from Rutgers University in New Jersey. His research focus has encompassed understanding the genetic mechanisms behind plant disease resistance, plant secondary compound production and other important plant traits for new variety development. In 2017 Robert joined Van Drunen Farms Specialty Seeds in Southern California where he works with a talented team to produce new varieties of specialty crops. VDF Specialty Seeds offers sweet basil varieties bred for improved downy mildew resistance with high quality flavor and agronomic characteristics. Current research aims are targeting improved cold tolerance and post-harvest shelf life while maintaining focus on improved disease resistance.

Sessions :