Kandukuri Raman

Kandukuri Raman is an Adjunct Professor in Cornell University's School of Integrative Plant Science (Plant Breeding and Genetics Section) and a Faculty Fellow at the David R. Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future. He has been affiliated with Cornell since 1993, leading the multi-semester India-Agriculture Development Program (IARD 4020/6020) for over 20 years, engaging faculty from multiple countries and over 1,000 students. His work focuses on enhancing food production in developing nations through collaborative international programs in agricultural biotechnology, crop improvement, and capacity development.

Education

• Postdoctorate in Entomology/Plant Breeding, Cornell University (1977-78)
• Ph.D. in Agriculture & Horticulture, University of Reading (1977)
• M.S. in Crop Protection, University of Reading (1974)
• B.S. in Agriculture, Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University (1972)

Research Interests

Raman's research emphasizes global agricultural development, with a focus on crop biotechnology, integrated pest management (IPM), and agricultural innovation. His work includes:

• Facilitating technology transfer of biotech tools to developing countries
• Developing pest/disease-resistant GM crops
• Designing regionally relevant agricultural curricula
• Strengthening seed industry development and agri-business management

Awards

• King Baudouin Award (for potato improvement work at the International Potato Center)

Outreach & Grants

Raman has led major initiatives like USAID's Agricultural Biotechnology Support Project II and the Agricultural Innovation Partnership Project. His programs integrate teaching, research, and extension to address challenges in South Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Current efforts include advancing Cornell's India-focused capacity-building programs and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Labs/Teams

Associated with Cornell AgriTech, the Department of Global Development, and the Plant Breeding and Genetics Section, Raman collaborates with global institutions to drive agricultural innovation.