James Kelly

James D. Kelly is a University Distinguished Professor in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University. His research program develops improved dry bean varieties in several commercial classes for Michigan growers and industry.

Research focuses on:

• High-yielding disease and stress resistant cultivars
• Upright plant architecture
• Improved canning quality
• Molecular markers for trait selection

Dr. Kelly's international activities include collaborative research in Uganda, Ghana, Kyrgyzstan, and Central Asia. He has released multiple bean varieties including 'Zenith' black bean, 'Alpena' navy bean, and 'Samurai' otebo bean.