The American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) hosts an annual conference for horticulture researchers, scientists, industry, academia, government, and students to learn about and showcase new technology and advances in horticultural science.
A very big congratulations to our very own Dr. Michelle Jones, who was elected as a Fellow of the American Society for Horticultural Science! This is a great career accomplishment for those in the Horticultural Science sphere. Thankfully, Dr. Jones had a second to talk to us about what being elected means to her before she heads to the conference...
What does being elected as a Fellow of the ASHS mean to you?
Being selected as an ASHS fellow is a great honor, and I am extremely grateful to the members of the selection committee as well as my OSU colleagues and everyone involved in my nomination. It is humbling to be joining such an accomplished group of Horticulturists.
Can you highlight some of the key research + accomplishments that contributed to this recognition?
Over the last 25 years, my research has contributed to our understanding of the molecular regulation of flower senescence and postharvest quality. Providing practical solutions to reduce postharvest losses of cut flowers and potted plants by manipulating plant hormone synthesis and plant responses. My lab has studied plant-bacteria interactions and identified novel beneficial bacteria that can promote plant growth and improve crop tolerance to environmental stresses and plant pathogens. This research has provided important insights into the importance of the microbiome in soilless substrates for plant health and nutrient use efficiency. We are one of only a few programs working with the chemical companies and growers to understand how biostimulants and biofertilizers can be used effectively within the greenhouse industry.
What inspired you to pursue horticultural science, and how has your work evolved over the years?
As an undergraduate student at Iowa State University, I was in a major called Agricultural Biochemistry. I had the opportunity to conduct an internship and then an honors research project in the Department of Horticulture. It was this research experience with flowers and the professors in that department that inspired me to pursue my PhD in Horticulture.
Since graduate school, I have continued to work on research in floriculture crops, but that research has changed from a focus on postharvest physiology to my current focus on plant-microbe interactions and practical applications for floriculture.
What/who got you involved in the ASHS?
I have been a member of ASHS since I was a graduate student. My graduate student advisor, Dr. Randy Woodson, encouraged me to become involved in ASHS and provided me with the opportunity to attend the ASHS Annual conference and other conferences (national and international) to present my research.
What are you most looking forward to at this year’s ASHS Annual Conference?
I am looking forward to catching up with colleagues and hearing about all their amazing research. This year I am fortunate to be able to bring five members of my lab to the annual conference in New Orleans. I am excited to see them shine as they give their oral and poster presentations. They have done amazing work, and it is great to see the pride they take in presenting their research results to other scientists.
Looking ahead what areas of horticultural science are you most excited about?
There are a lot of exciting innovations in Horticulture that are being driven by new technologies and a growing interest in more sustainable practices. I am excited to see the CEA industry grow in Ohio and can’t wait to find out what crops we are growing and how we are growing them in controlled environments ten years from now.
What advice would you give to students entering the field today?
Get involved early with your professional societies like ASHS. ASHS has great scholarships and opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. Their annual conference (or regional conferences) allows students to network and learn about research and innovations within Horticulture.
Curious about the conference? Click below.