Wanlong Li

Professor Wanlong Li is affiliated with the Department of Biology and Microbiology at South Dakota State University, with an associated appointment in the Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science. His primary research focuses on genetics, genomics, and epigenetics, particularly in polyploid wheat evolution and crop stress tolerance. Current projects include the RSA project investigating root length regulation via the Vsr1 locus and CRISPR editing for enhanced grain yield. His work bridges genetic mapping with physiological mechanisms underlying heterosis and abiotic stress resilience.

Research interests emphasize the genetic and epigenetic basis of plant adaptation, leveraging tools like CRISPR to address agricultural challenges such as drought and salinity tolerance. The Li Lab, located in the Edgar S. McFadden Biostress Laboratory, actively explores pathways related to wax inhibitor genes and grain regulatory systems. While no specific awards or grants are listed, his contributions to wheat germplasm enhancement and hybrid vigor studies reflect significant scholarly engagement.