Who’s who at NCSU

Each month, the Kannapolis Citizen & Researcher will introduce one of the universities at the N.C. Research Campus. This month, meet the faculty and staff at N.C. State University.Plants for Human Health Institute

www.ncsu.edu/fvsi/phhi/

Dr. Mary Ann Lila, director

Focuses on identifying bioactive compounds and understanding how they work, especially those that counteract chronic disease and enhance human metabolism.

Dr. Penelope Perkins-Veazie, professor and postharvest physiologist

Specializes in how crops are handled after they are harvested, shelf life and phytochemical changes. Investigated watermelon and blackberries.

Dr. Allan Brown,  assistant professor and applied molecular geneticist

Specializes in conventional vegetable breeding and molecular genetics. Investigated  broccoli.

Dr. Jeremy Pattison, assistant professor and strawberry breeder

Specializes in genetic improvement of strawberries, including health-promoting attributes, extending the growing season and strengthening resistance.

Tara L. Vogelien, director for business and  research administration

Oversees daily operations, including budget, human resources, facilities and grants management.

Program for Value-Added & Alternative Agriculture

www.ncvalueadded.org 

Dr. Blake Brown, director 

Focuses on providing business management expertise to help tobacco-farm families transition to other enterprises, as well as fresh produce safety, horticultural skills education, more.

Gary Bullen, Extension associate

Specializes in evaluating new enterprises, helping farmers develop business skills, direct marketing and financial management. 

Leah Chester-Davis, coordinator of communications and community outreach

Oversees communications, Web site development, marketing and media relations. (www.the producelady.org.)

Diane Ducharme,

Extension associate

Specializes in horticulture and food safety, serves as co-chair of the N.C. Fresh Produce Safety Task Force. 

(www.ncfreshproducesafety.org)

Rod Gurganus, Extension associate 

Specializes in entrepreneurial horticulture. Works with agribusinesses, economic development officials and farmers.