Ralph Obendorf

Ralph L. Obendorf, Professor Emeritus, is a specialist in Seed Biology with teaching and research responsibilities. His research addressed factors and functions that regulate seed growth, seed maturation, tolerance to desiccation, and seed performance. His work on soluble carbohydrates in seeds as related to desiccation tolerance and germination led to the discovery of new health-related compounds in seeds. Obendorf's research emphasized the training of 2-12 undergraduate students in research each semester. He had 13 undergraduates in his lab in 2007 and 52 undergraduate coauthors since 1997. His research and teaching are globally recognized. Obendorf was active in numerous professional societies nationally and internationally. He was president of the International Society for Seed Science (1999-2005) and is owner/editor (1995-present) of SEED-BIOLOGY-L [at] cornell.edu, a highly successful mailing list promoting global exchange of information on seed research among 450 subscribers residing in 50 countries and 45 states.