David A. Van Sanford

David A. Van Sanford is Professor of Plant and Soil Sciences at University of Kentucky's Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, leading the university's wheat breeding program.

His research develops improved soft red winter wheat cultivars with resistance to Fusarium head blight, enhanced nitrogen use efficiency, and climate resilience. The program utilizes molecular breeding techniques and field trials to address agricultural challenges in the mid-south region.

Recent publications demonstrate application of genomic selection, genome-wide association studies, and physiological screening to improve disease resistance and climate adaptation. Research consistently integrates traditional breeding with modern genomic tools to develop commercially viable cultivars.

Scientific Awards:

• University of Kentucky Research Professorship Award
• Thomas Poe Cooper Award for Research
• Fellow of American Society of Agronomy and Crop Science Society

Dr. Van Sanford mentors graduate students in wheat genetics and teaches courses in plant breeding and quantitative genetics. He has released multiple wheat cultivars including Pembroke 2014 and Pembroke 2016 through the Kentucky Small Grain Growers Association.