Wojtek Pawlowski serves as Professor at Cornell University's School of Integrative Plant Science, holding dual appointments in the Plant Biology Section and Plant Breeding and Genetics Section. His laboratory is housed in the Plant Science Building at Cornell's Ithaca campus, where he conducts cutting-edge research on meiotic processes in plants. Dr. Pawlowski's research focuses on three interconnected themes: (i) mapping and understanding meiotic recombination patterns in maize genomes, (ii) investigating chromosome dynamics during early meiotic prophase using advanced microscopy techniques including restorative deconvolution and structured illumination microscopy, and (iii) studying genome rearrangements in newly formed polyploids. His work bridges fundamental chromosome biology with practical plant breeding applications, particularly through NSF-sponsored research on increasing crossovers in recombination-depressed genomic regions. Analysis of his publication record reveals consistent focus on maize as a model system, with significant contributions to understanding double-strand break formation, crossover distribution mechanisms, and chromatin features influencing recombination outcomes. His most recent work extends into commercial applications through Meiogenix, a chromosome-editing startup advancing non-GMO plant breeding solutions. Dr. Pawlowski actively contributes to education and outreach through courses in genetics and evolution, including Plant Evolutionary Biology (PLSCI 3440), and co-directs the NSF-sponsored SUMMIT program providing research internships for minority undergraduate students. His laboratory collaborates internationally through ERA-CAPS/NSF initiatives focused on chromosome axis dynamics.






