Steven Knapp

Steven focuses on the breeding, genetics, and genomics of strawberry, including the development, testing, and deployment of genetically superior cultivars. Steven's lab'sresearch involves identifying and understanding genetic factors underlying economically important phenotypes. Additionally, they enable and apply marker-assisted selection and genomic selection techniques, advancing high-throughput genotyping and phenotyping approaches in the field of strawberry genetics.

Ongoing research at Steven's lab aims to understand how domestication and breeding have reshaped genetic diversity in strawberries. The focus is also on identifying favorable alleles present in exotic and wild germplasm sources but absent in elite germplasm sources. Understanding the genetics of resistance to above-ground and soil-borne pathogens remains a significant aspect of the lab's research. Moreover, the objective is to develop cultivars that exhibit resistance to multiple pathogens. Lastly, Steven's lab initiatives aim to gain insights into the genetics of fruit quality traits important to consumers and producers alike.