Dr. Michael Jones is the Foundation Director of the WA State Agricultural Biotechnology program. His research focuses on the molecular basis of interactions between crop plants and pests/pathogens (nematodes, insects, viruses), and innovative control methods. He is particularly interested in transgenic plants, new breeding technologies, gene editing (e.g., wheat, potato), and technology regulation, with a strong desire to translate R&D into societal benefits. He has authored over 300 publications and supervised 70 PhD students.