Plant Biotechnology - W. Gruissem emeritus

Prof. Wilhelm Gruissem has retired from ETH Zurich at the end of July 2022. His Plant Biotechnology laboratory in the Institute of Molecular Plant Biology and ETH Department of Biology is now closed.

During his 22 years at ETH Zurich, Prof. Gruissem and his colleagues have developed new traits in the globally important crops cassava, rice and wheat. Advances in basic research often provide the principles for improving crop function, performance and nutritional qualities. He recognizes the importance of applying biotechnology skills to provide solutions in major staple crops. Cassava, the staple crop of more than 800 Million people worldwide and also commercially important for its high-quality starch, is affected by severe virus diseases in Africa and India that are now threatening Asian countries as well. Moreover, cassava yields in many countries are often far below their agronomic potential. Rice and wheat, which feed more than half of the world population, are deficient or low in essential micronutrients such as iron, zinc and vitamins. Using gene engineering and CRISPR-Cas technologies his laboratory has developed improved varieties that contribute to food security and healthier nutrition. His research publications can be found on external pageGoogle Scholar.

Prof. Gruissem is continuing his research in the Advanced Plant Biotechnology Center ( or via his .