Dr. Brad Morris

Geneticist (Plants)

Responsibilities

I am a Geneticist and Curator for special-purpose legumes, industrial crops, miscellaneous crops, warm season grasses, and clovers. My responsibilities include management, conservation, evaluation, and enhancement for plant and seed regenerations as well as related information for these crops. My research encompasses genetic variability of morphological, fatty acid, flavonoid, oil %, lignin content, protein concentrations, and mineral concentrations in several of these crops. Specific research projects include development of edible functional food products such as jelly, chutney, and tea from roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) calyces, and edible flowers from butterfly pea. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and hyacinth bean (Lablab purpureus) germplasm development for high protein content. Variability for lignans, protein, oil %, and fatty acids in sesame germplasm. Evaluation of Desmodium and Lespedeza spp. germplasm for intestinal parasite control in livestock and the identification of the biochemical(s) providing the control mechanism. Jute (Corchorus spp.) evaluation for composites and functional food properties. 

Research

Research Programs
Projects and Publications

Education