Andrew Daymond

Andrew Daymond is a researcher affiliated with the University of Reading, with a focus on cocoa (Theobroma cacao) physiology, climate change impacts, and sustainable agricultural practices. His work spans plant physiology, germplasm management, pest/disease control, and soil health. He has contributed to over 39 peer-reviewed articles and edited technical guidelines for cocoa germplasm movement.

• Key affiliations: University of Reading, Bioversity International, and international cocoa research networks.
• Research emphasizes climate resilience in cacao, viral/pathogen detection in germplasm, and bridging yield gaps in Ghana/Indonesia through soil management.

Major contributions include:

• Development of physiological models to predict cocoa productivity under climate change.
• Advocacy for safe germplasm movement protocols to prevent disease spread.
• Field studies on organic soil amendments and pest control strategies.

Recent work highlights the differential effects of climate variables on cacao genotypes and the role of soil acidity in nutritional responses.