By Andi Anderson
Roger Innes, a Distinguished Professor of Biology at Indiana University, is leading groundbreaking research that could help farmers grow more while spending less. His work focuses on strengthening plant immune systems to resist pests and diseases—especially in key crops like soybeans.
Innes was recently elected to the National Academy of Sciences for his major contributions to plant biology.
His research aims to reduce farmers’ dependence on pesticides by creating disease-resistant crops through genetics. “Our current agricultural practices are not sustainable,” Innes said, pointing to pesticide runoff and collapsing insect populations.
One major breakthrough from his lab, in collaboration with Iowa State University, identified a protein in soybean cyst nematodes that weakens the plant’s immune response.
These nematodes cause over $1.5 billion in losses annually in the U.S. By understanding how these pests operate, Innes’ team is developing methods to trigger stronger plant immune reactions.
“Plant immune systems work like alarm systems,” said Innes. His research may lead to engineered crops that can respond to a wider range of threats, offering a safer and more sustainable farming future.
The impact of his work goes beyond soybeans. Fellow IU scientist Craig Pikaard says Innes is helping “hack” plant immunity to expand resistance to many pests. Innes has also inspired the next generation of researchers.
Under his mentorship, scientists like Meenu Singla-Rastogi have made discoveries such as plant RNA on leaf surfaces that help regulate plant health—similar to how gut RNA supports human immunity.
As Innes continues to explore plant immunity, his research is paving the way for stronger crops, lower costs, and more sustainable agriculture—offering farmers real solutions for a resilient future.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Indiana, Sustainable Agriculture