By Andi Anderson
Dr. Jonathan Wendel, a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology at Iowa State University, has been honored with the 2024 Cotton Genetics Research Award.
The award was presented during the 2025 Beltwide Cotton Improvement Conference held in New Orleans, recognizing his groundbreaking contributions to cotton genetics.
Dr. Wendel, with a career spanning four decades, began his journey as a geneticist for the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service in 1983 before transitioning to academia in 1986. At Iowa State University, he has been a prominent researcher, authoring over 340 scientific articles and earning more than 54,000 citations.
His work has provided valuable insights into cotton domestication and diversification while offering practical tools for crop improvement.
Throughout his career, Dr. Wendel has received several prestigious accolades, including Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Distinguished Fellow of the Botanical Society of America, and Researcher of the Year for the International Cotton Advisory Committee.
In 2023, he achieved the rare distinction of being elected to both the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, becoming the only U.S.-born cotton researcher to receive this honor.
Dr. Wendel’s contributions extend beyond research, as he is celebrated for mentoring students and young scientists, fostering the next generation of researchers. His nominator, Dr. Peng Chee, highlighted Wendel’s exceptional leadership and described him as a "giant among us," reflecting his lasting impact on the scientific community.
The Cotton Genetics Research Award, established in 1961, recognizes excellence in cotton genetics and breeding research. Dr. Wendel’s achievements underscore his vital role in advancing cotton science and inspiring future breakthroughs in agriculture.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Education