Charles Chen

Charles Chen is an Assistant Professor of Bioinformatics at Oklahoma State University (OSU), holding a dual affiliation with the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Institute for Biosecurity & Microbial Forensics (IBMF). His research office is located in Room 348G of the Noble Research Center in Stillwater, OK, where he conducts interdisciplinary work at the intersection of genomics, bioinformatics, and agricultural security.

Dr. Chen's research program focuses on deciphering the genetic, environmental, and evolutionary mechanisms driving biological diversity, with particular emphasis on plant systems. His work spans:

• Genomic analysis of climate adaptation in conifers, wheat, and peanut
• Microbiome dynamics in agricultural biosecurity contexts
• Drought stress response mechanisms and breeding for climate resilience
• Development of computational frameworks for genomic prediction and breeding optimization
• Integration of UAV-based phenotyping with genomic data

His recent publications (2023-2025) reveal a cohesive research trajectory centered on applying advanced genomic tools to solve pressing agricultural challenges. Key thematic areas include drought adaptation in forest trees and crops, genomic selection methodologies, and the fusion of computational biology with field-based phenomics. His work consistently bridges theoretical genomics with practical breeding applications, particularly in climate-vulnerable systems.

Dr. Chen actively collaborates with the Oklahoma Wheat Commission and Oklahoma Wheat Research Foundation, as evidenced by his involvement in wheat microbiome projects. While specific advisees aren't listed in available materials, his research scope suggests mentorship of students in computational genomics and plant breeding. His work receives support from agricultural research initiatives focused on climate-resilient crop development.

As a core member of OSU's Institute for Biosecurity & Microbial Forensics, he contributes bioinformatic expertise to agricultural security projects. His laboratory likely integrates high-performance computing with molecular biology approaches, maintaining collaborations across plant science, forestry, and computational disciplines to address food security challenges through genomic innovation.