Liuling Yan

Dr. Liuling Yan is a Regents Professor in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at Oklahoma State University. His research focuses on wheat molecular genetics, vernalization mechanisms, and plant architecture optimization. He has developed several high-impact molecular tools and resistance genes for agricultural improvement.

• Appointments: Regents Professor (2021-present), Dillon and Lois Hodges Professor (2012-2026)
• Prior Positions: Postdoctoral Fellow at University of California, Davis; Visiting Scientist at University of Melbourne

Dr. Yan's work encompasses:

• Cloning vernalization genes (VRN1, VRN2, VRN3)
• Identifying yield-enhancing genes (TaCol-B5, TaGW2-TaSPL14)
• Developing disease resistance markers (Lr34, SgR1)
• Genome editing for climate-resilient wheat

His research team has released 26 wheat varieties through the Oklahoma Wheat Improvement Team, with field-tested yield improvements up to 12%.

Scientific Recognition:

• USDA Secretary's Honor Award (2011)
• James A. Whatley Award (2012)
• Staff of Life Award (2015)
• Sarkeys Distinguished Professor (2016)
• Master of the Code Award (2019)
• Regents Distinguished Research Award (2024)

He teaches graduate courses in plant molecular breeding and biotechnology, while maintaining active research grants exceeding $4 million from federal and industrial sources.