The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center focuses scientific research at the nexus of food, energy and the environment to improve the productivity and sustainability of agriculture. We assemble interactive teams of scientists and develop unique platforms to discover underlying principles about how plants work. We then convert that knowledge into useful crops and products, and partner with organizations that are best positioned to solve problems where they exist around the world.
Employees: 235 total; 175 scientists (20 Principal Investigators)
Major research areas: Basic plant science discovery and technology development; food security crop improvement and sustainability; next-generation/sustainable bioenergy
2015 Peer-Reviewed Scientific Publications: 115
2015 Operating Budget: $27M – 52% from competitive research grants; 44% from draws on endowment and annual gifts
Top funding agencies/foundations: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, U.S. Department of Energy, and U.S. National Science Foundation
Danforth Center Expansion Project: 79,000 sq. ft. William H. Danforth Wing; addition of up to 100 scientists in strategic areas; development and growth of key technology platforms; growth of the endowment to support expanded operations