Continuing the tradition of recognizing scientists whose biotechnology research has significantly contributed to the advancement of cotton, Dr. Randy Allen, professor at Texas Tech University, has been selected as the winner of the 2007 Cotton Biotechnology Award.

The award was presented by Dr. Linda Trolinder during the Cotton Improvement Conference at this year’s Beltwide Cotton Conferences. Dr. Linda Trolinder is the daughter of Dr. Norma Trolinder, who originally endowed the award. “Randy has done a great deal of research in gene discovery especially in the area of cotton fiber quality,” explains Trolinder. “Over the last 6 to 8 years, he has also been very successful with his work in abiotic stress, developing transgenes currently being tested in the field. I can’t think of anyone else who deserves this award more,” concludes Trolinder.

Dr. Allen’s career in cotton spans 18 years. He has a master’s degree from UT Arlington and a Ph.D. from Texas A&M. “Cotton Incorporated’s Dr. Don Jones contacted me and asked if I’d be attending Beltwide and I had to tell him it wasn’t in my travel plans at the time,” states Allen. “After he told me I’d been selected to receive this award, I made my reservations very quickly,” laughs a humble Allen. “There are many scientists in our industry who deserve this award so I’m feeling very honored today,” adds Dr. Allen.

Dr. Allen has strong ties with Cotton Incorporated. He has conducted research funded through both Cotton Incorporated’s State Support and Core Programs and is currently training a Cotton Incorporated “Fellow”, Dr. Lorenzo Aleman, as he works to conclude his post-doctoral work. “Cotton Incorporated has done so much for our industry and the ‘Fellows’ program is an example of how their funding perpetuates much-needed talent in the area of cotton breeding and genetics,” concludes Dr. Allen.

Dr. Allen’s current work includes research with hormone signaling pathways that affect cotton’s fiber development.

In addition to a plaque, Dr. Allen received a check for $2,000.