Hosted by The UWA Institute of Agriculture, this public lecture will examine crop-ecophysiological research focused on understanding the resilience mechanisms of agronomic crops under abiotic stresses. Conducted at Clemson University, this work integrates molecular physiology with production agronomy to support the development of climate-resilient agricultural systems that balance economic viability with environmental sustainability.
The presentation is structured around two main themes:
- crop responses and adaptation to climate change
- sustainable cropping systems
The first section highlights efforts to identify key traits, mechanisms, and genotypes suitable for breeding programs aimed at developing crops adapted to future climatic conditions. The second section explores strategies for improving management practices to boost water use efficiency, soil health, and environmental stress tolerance, thereby enhancing the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of agricultural systems.
About the lecturer
Dr Sruthi Narayanan is an Associate Professor of Crop Ecophysiology at Clemson University, South Carolina, USA, specializing in the resilience mechanisms of agronomic crops under abiotic stresses.
Growing up in a farming family in Southern India, she experienced firsthand the challenges of production agriculture, which motivated her to pursue a career as a crop scientist. She holds a Ph.D. & M.S. in Agronomy from Kansas State University, USA, and has extensive experience in both research and teaching.
Dr Narayanan’s research program focuses on developing innovative strategies to establish climate-resilient production systems that achieve the delicate balance between economic viability and environmental sustainability. In the face of climate change, her work is critical to supporting sustainable agricultural practices and moving toward climate-smart agriculture. Her research and teaching programs have been recognized nationally.
She received several awards, including the Crop Science Society of America Early Career Award, the highest honor for a young crop scientist in the USA. She has also served in multiple leadership roles within professional societies and academic committees and is currently the Chair-elect of the Crop Physiology and Metabolism Division of the Crop Science Society of America.
If you cannot attend in-person, this lecture will be recorded and shared on the IOA Youtube Channel shortly followig the event.
