Jared Crain

Jared Crain, PhD, is a Research Assistant Professor at the Department of Plant Pathology, Kansas State University. He serves as the director of the Feed the Future Applied Wheat Genomics (AWG) lab, focusing on climate-resilient wheat development for Southeast Asia and collaborates with the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT). Additionally, he leads genomic breeding efforts for intermediate wheatgrass domestication with The Land Institute. His research spans genomic selection, high-throughput phenotyping, and perennial crop development.

Education: Ph.D. in Genetics (Kansas State University, 2016); M.S. and B.S. in Plant & Soil Science (Oklahoma State University, 2012 and 2010).

Research emphasizes applying genomics to improve crop resilience and sustainability. Key areas include wheat breeding under climate stress, perennial grain domestication (Kernza), and developing genomic tools for efficient selection. His work integrates advanced phenotyping and genomics to accelerate genetic gains in crops like wheat and intermediate wheatgrass.

Collaborations include national programs in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan, as well as The Land Institute. He directs projects enhancing wheat germplasm and improving breeding methodologies through genomic approaches.