Renowned Biologist David Stern Joins Stowers Institute to Advance Research on Insect-Plant Interactions
The Stowers Institute for Medical Research, located in Kansas City, is making waves in the scientific community with its latest recruitment of Dr. David Stern, a prominent developmental and evolutionary biologist. Dr. Stern, who has been a Senior Group Leader at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's (HHMI) Janelia Research Campus since 2011, is set to begin his position at the Stowers Institute in February 2026.
Dr. Stern's research has a particular focus on unraveling the complex interactions between insects and the plants they feed on, offering potential strategies for next-generation pest control. His notable work includes the discovery of "bicycle proteins," a novel family of proteins that enhance aphid survival by tricking plants into developing protective structures known as galls. This groundbreaking finding addresses a question that has perplexed scientists and naturalists since antiquity: how do these insects manipulate plant growth to their advantage?
The implications of Dr. Stern's work extend far beyond basic science; his research addresses crucial agricultural issues. Aphids, often dubbed the "mosquitoes of the plant world," not only feed on a wide variety of plants but also serve as vectors for disease, contributing significantly to crop damage and economic loss in the agricultural sector. By examining the salivary glands of aphids, where these bicycle proteins originate, Stern and his lab may pave the way for innovative pest control measures that are effective, precise, and environmentally sustainable.
President and Chief Scientific Officer of the Stowers Institute, Dr. Alejandro Sánchez Alvarado, expressed enthusiasm about Stern's recruitment, highlighting that his research aligns perfectly with the institute's core mission of pursuing innovative biological science that could lead to substantial advancements in understanding life processes.
Dr. Stern’s interdisciplinary approach spans various scientific fields including genetics, evolutionary biology, and biochemistry, combining lab work with field studies. This holistic methodology is pivotal as he plans to bring the same collaborative spirit to the Stowers Institute's unique research environment. The institute's funding model, supported by American Century Investments, liberates scientists from financial constraints, allowing them to focus on their scientific inquiries without the pressures often faced in traditional research spaces.
"From my very first visit, I could feel the vitality and enthusiasm of the community at Stowers. It was reminiscent of the excitement I felt as a graduate student, with everyone chasing curiosity and discovery," remarked Stern. He is eager to delve into the institute's open-ended questions, leveraging the unique opportunities offered by the institution.
Founded in 1994, the Stowers Institute is a nonprofit biomedical research organization dedicated to exploring fundamental aspects of biological science, with a goal of improving health and quality of life through innovative disease research. With around 500 members, including over 370 scientific staff, the institute boasts a diverse team engaged in various independent research programs.
In summary, Dr. David Stern's arrival signals a promising new chapter for the Stowers Institute as it aims to expand its research capacity and potentially transform future pest control techniques. His pioneering work on insect-plant interactions could lead not only to agricultural advancements but also to a greater understanding of biological processes and evolution itself.
Dr. Stern's research has a particular focus on unraveling the complex interactions between insects and the plants they feed on, offering potential strategies for next-generation pest control. His notable work includes the discovery of "bicycle proteins," a novel family of proteins that enhance aphid survival by tricking plants into developing protective structures known as galls. This groundbreaking finding addresses a question that has perplexed scientists and naturalists since antiquity: how do these insects manipulate plant growth to their advantage?
The implications of Dr. Stern's work extend far beyond basic science; his research addresses crucial agricultural issues. Aphids, often dubbed the "mosquitoes of the plant world," not only feed on a wide variety of plants but also serve as vectors for disease, contributing significantly to crop damage and economic loss in the agricultural sector. By examining the salivary glands of aphids, where these bicycle proteins originate, Stern and his lab may pave the way for innovative pest control measures that are effective, precise, and environmentally sustainable.
President and Chief Scientific Officer of the Stowers Institute, Dr. Alejandro Sánchez Alvarado, expressed enthusiasm about Stern's recruitment, highlighting that his research aligns perfectly with the institute's core mission of pursuing innovative biological science that could lead to substantial advancements in understanding life processes.
Dr. Stern’s interdisciplinary approach spans various scientific fields including genetics, evolutionary biology, and biochemistry, combining lab work with field studies. This holistic methodology is pivotal as he plans to bring the same collaborative spirit to the Stowers Institute's unique research environment. The institute's funding model, supported by American Century Investments, liberates scientists from financial constraints, allowing them to focus on their scientific inquiries without the pressures often faced in traditional research spaces.
"From my very first visit, I could feel the vitality and enthusiasm of the community at Stowers. It was reminiscent of the excitement I felt as a graduate student, with everyone chasing curiosity and discovery," remarked Stern. He is eager to delve into the institute's open-ended questions, leveraging the unique opportunities offered by the institution.
Founded in 1994, the Stowers Institute is a nonprofit biomedical research organization dedicated to exploring fundamental aspects of biological science, with a goal of improving health and quality of life through innovative disease research. With around 500 members, including over 370 scientific staff, the institute boasts a diverse team engaged in various independent research programs.
In summary, Dr. David Stern's arrival signals a promising new chapter for the Stowers Institute as it aims to expand its research capacity and potentially transform future pest control techniques. His pioneering work on insect-plant interactions could lead not only to agricultural advancements but also to a greater understanding of biological processes and evolution itself.
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