Robert Sharp, Curators’ Distinguished Professor of Plant Science and Technology, recently received the UM System President’s Thomas Jefferson Award for his research. The award recognizes one outstanding faculty member annually who has been nationally or internationally recognized for and demonstrated clear distinction in research, scholarship, teaching and public service.

Sharp, also former director of the Interdisciplinary Plant Group (IPG), received the award for his stellar reputation as an international collaborator furthering the field of plant science, his work overseeing key joint hires at MU and the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, helping with the development of the new East Campus Plant Growth Facility, hosting the International Society of Root Research symposium and leading the effort to expand the IPG’s engagement with the MU South African Partnership program.

“Dr. Robert Sharp’s leadership of the IPG for more than 10 years speaks to the respect he commands among plant scientists,” University of Missouri President Mun Choi said. “The work at the IPG has improved our understanding of the ways in which plants respond to changing environments, which in turn helps us better serve our citizens in Missouri.”