Yiping Qi

Yiping Qi is a Professor in the Department of Plant Science & Landscape Architecture at the University of Maryland, College Park. His research focuses on plant genome engineering, CRISPR-Cas systems, and synthetic biology. He leads the Qi Lab, which develops genome editing tools for diverse plant species, including rice, maize, wheat, and trees. His work aims to enhance crop resilience, improve food security, and engineer sustainable agricultural systems. Dr. Qi has received repeated recognition as a Clarivate Web of Science Highly Cited Researcher (2021–2025) and holds prestigious awards such as the UMD Invention of the Year Award (2021) and the NSF Plant Genome Early Career Award (2018).

Education:

• Ph.D., Plant Biological Sciences, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 2009
• M.S., Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 2003
• B.S., Microbiology, Nankai University, 2000

Research Interests: The Qi Lab pioneers cutting-edge tools like CRISPR-Cas9, CRISPR-Cpf1, and base editors for genome editing and transcriptional regulation. These tools enable precise manipulation of plant genomes to address challenges in crop yield, disease resistance, and environmental adaptation. Recent breakthroughs include the development of CRISPR-Combo systems for simultaneous editing and gene activation, and engineered trees with enhanced wood properties.

Grants & Collaborations: Dr. Qi collaborates globally to apply CRISPR tools in diverse plant species. His lab has deposited materials at Addgene, facilitating global research access. Notable grants include the FFAR New Innovator Award (2018) and multiple AGNR Dean’s Grantsmanship Awards.

Labs & Teams: The Qi Lab operates within the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration across plant biology, synthetic biology, and agricultural innovation.