Basic research: The answer to many of life's questions

By Randy Woodson, Glenn W. Sample Dean of Agriculture

When visiting with Purdue Agriculture alumni and friends across the state and nation, I am often asked about the connection that basic research has to the everyday lives of people. Sometimes it is difficult to see the successful application of laboratory findings into the public sector. Since the major role of research is to expand our understanding of the world that surrounds us, this means every new discovery brings us closer to deciphering the mysteries that make up our lives. Basic research answers questions like: how dry is too dry for a plant? how can we better protect our food supply? and  what causes disease?

The importance of basic research cannot be emphasized enough; therefore, it gives me great pleasure to welcome a new research advocate to Purdue Agriculture. Sonny Ramaswamy joins the college this month as associate dean and director of Purdue Agricultural Research Programs. Former head of the Department of Entomology at Kansas State University, Sonny brings vision and optimism to his Purdue post. I know that he is excited about the task ahead and relishes the opportunities to travel Indiana and share the opportunities and benefits of research.

With the challenges that have yet to be conquered in disease, world hunger and environmental preservation, the significance of research has never been more apparent or more important.

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