10/01/2026
For more than 36 years, NDSU University Distinguished Professor of Plant Sciences Elias Elias has been working to improve one of North Dakota’s most important crops: durum wheat.
His research in durum wheat breeding focuses on developing varieties that meet the needs of farmers, manufacturers and consumers. That includes improving yield and protein, enhancing pasta quality, increasing disease resistance and developing varieties with lower cadmium uptake.
That work spans research fields across North Dakota, helping ensure new varieties perform across different growing environments. Today, Elias’ varieties are grown on about 90% of North Dakota’s durum acreage, contributing to the state’s strong reputation for high-quality durum wheat.
But for Elias, research success extends beyond the varieties developed. It also means preparing the next generation of agricultural researchers.
“Without the students, you cannot do it all by yourself,” Elias said. “The students play a critical role.”
From advancing crop genetics to mentoring students who go on to careers across industry and academia, Elias’ work demonstrates how agricultural research can create impact from the research field to the marketplace.
Read the whole story: https://www.ndsu.edu/story/innovating-solutions-farmers-manufacturers-and-consumers
