Verdesian Life Sciences, a worldwide leader in nutrient use efficiency technologies for agricultural use, announces the appointment of Robert Fraley to its board of directors. Fraley spent nearly four decades as chief technology officer at Monsanto, and his appointment shows Verdesian’s continued focus on attracting the brightest minds and pioneering individuals in agriculture. The addition of Fraley to the board also showcases his interest in nutrient use efficiency technologies.
“I have been passionate about ag technology throughout my entire career, and I’m so excited to join Verdesian Life Sciences,” Fraley says. “As an industry, we are constantly learning more about soil science, crop nutrition optimization, and sustainable food production, and Verdesian is leading the way.”
Fraley led a team during his time at Monsanto that helped to develop the first genetically modified seed. His leadership there led to solutions centered on sustainable ag technologies around plant breeding, biotechnology, ag biologicals, ag microbials, precision agriculture and crop protection innovations. He earned the prestigious 2013 World Food Prize for breakthrough achievements in founding, and in 1999, President Clinton awarded him the National Medal of Technology.
“It is truly an honor to welcome Dr. Fraley to Verdesian,” says Verdesian CEO Kenneth Avery. “I have followed his journey for decades, and he has put together one of the truly stellar careers in all of agriculture. His work in research and development has improved technology across food production all over the world. Verdesian is blessed to have him on our board.”
Fraley is the author of more than 100 publications and patent applications relating to technical advances in agricultural science. He earned a bachelor of science and Ph.D. in microbiology/biochemistry from the University of Illinois and an executive degree in business management from Northwestern University, and was a biophysics postdoctoral fellow at the University of California San Francisco.