Lav Kumar Yadav

Lav Kumar Yadav serves as an Assistant Professor in Ornamental Horticulture and Bioinformatics at the University of Georgia's College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, specifically within the Horticulture Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics and Genomics (IPBGG) at the Griffin Campus. His appointment consists of 80% research, 15% instruction, and 5% service, reflecting his balanced commitment to scholarly inquiry, teaching, and institutional contributions.

Education:

• B.S., Agriculture, Institute of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Nepal, 2013
• M.S., Biotechnology, West Virginia State University, WV, USA, 2017
• Bioinformatics Certification, University of Georgia, USA, 2021
• Ph.D. in Horticulture, University of Georgia, USA, 2021
• Center for the Integration of Research, Teaching and Learning (CIRTL), Associate Level of Certification, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, USA, 2023

Dr. Yadav's research focuses on ornamental species, plant breeding, genomics, and bioinformatics, with particular emphasis on cultivar development for species including Azalea, Franklinia, Rose, Redbud, Dogwood, and Stewartia. His work integrates molecular techniques with traditional horticultural practices to improve plant traits for conservation and landscaping purposes. A significant contribution includes identifying the max2 gene responsible for dwarfism in Piedmont Azalea during his Ph.D. research.

Analysis of Dr. Yadav's publication record reveals a consistent research trajectory centered on genetic diversity, population structure, and trait improvement in ornamental woody plants. His recent work (2022-2024) has increasingly focused on molecular breeding techniques and gene expression analysis, demonstrating evolution from population genetics toward more precise molecular interventions in plant breeding.

Dr. Yadav has demonstrated strong commitment to mentoring, having supported the academic and professional development of over ten graduate and undergraduate students. His teaching expertise spans bioinformatics and genomics instruction, complemented by leadership in student organizations and mentoring initiatives. His research program combines laboratory-based genomic analysis with field studies of ornamental species, creating a comprehensive approach to plant improvement.