Steven Strauss

Steven Strauss is a University Distinguished Professor of Forest Biotechnology at Oregon State University's College of Forestry, Department of Forest Ecosystems & Society. He leads the Oregon State Forest Biotechnology Lab and serves as a graduate major advisor. His work focuses on genetic engineering of trees for forestry and horticulture, and interdisciplinary policy analysis for GMO regulations. He teaches FS-TOX 435/535 on genes and chemicals in agriculture.

• Education: B.S., Cornell University (1978); M.F.S., Yale University (1980); Ph.D., UC Berkeley (1985)

Research interests include genomic approaches for tree improvement, field testing of transgenic trees, and public outreach on biotechnology. Awards include the 2014 OSU Industry Partnering Award and 2009 Forest Biotechnologist of the Year. He advises graduate students and collaborates with industry and academic partners through the Forest Biotechnology Partners initiative.

His lab has produced thousands of transgenic trees and conducted field trials under regulatory permits. He emphasizes balanced policy discussions on GMOs, combining scientific rigor with societal considerations.