Richard Immink appointed as Personal Professor “Plant Reproduction in a Changing Climate”

“We face the challenge of producing enough healthy, high-quality food with less pressure on our natural resources in an increasingly unpredictable climate,” Immink explains. “With our research, we are looking for solutions. As part of the recently awarded CropXR research programme, we are working to make crops more resilient to stress factors such as drought and heat. For example, we are investigating which hereditary traits in plants could be beneficial.”

In addition to traditional molecular-genetic techniques, the researchers are also utilising Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning. These methods accelerate the breeding process, enabling farmers and horticulturists to cultivate crops that can better withstand extreme weather conditions. In doing so, WUR is collaborating closely with other Dutch universities and industry partners.

In recent years, Immink conducted research as an Extraordinary Professor on flower bulbs and ornamental crops. He recently completed the NWO-VICI research programme Climate-Proof Plant Reproduction, which examined how plants determine the optimal moment for flowering and seed germination based on temperature conditions. Imminks’ new role aligns perfectly with this research.

Passion for Plants

Richard Immink studied Plant Biotechnology at the agricultural college in Dronten before continuing his education at Wageningen University & Research. “Throughout my life, I have been fascinated by the versatility of plants, with their immense growth potential and adaptability. I want to understand and explain at the molecular level how plants continuously optimise their development and adjust to our ever-changing environment,” he explains. His research focuses especially on the induction of flowering - after all, without flowers there would be no fruits or seeds. This process is crucial both for biodiversity and for our food supply.

"His expertise in plant reproduction and stress resilience is of great importance in a time when climate change presents significant challenges. That is why I am pleased that Richard Immink has been appointed as a personal professor," says director Richard Harrison of the Plant Sciences Group at WUR. "With his knowledge and experience, he makes a vital contribution to research aimed at achieving more sustainable food production."

Excellent Teaching

According to Immink, good research and appropriate education are essential for tackling complex issues such as the effects of extreme climate conditions. “It is important that students receive an education that goes beyond just the subject matter, because with new technologies like artificial intelligence, the world is changing rapidly. We are adapting our courses in plant development and reproductive biology accordingly. In doing so, we are increasingly collaborating with other disciplines and also training students in soft skills, such as communication and presentation.”

Immink is enthusiastic about the position within the Plant Developmental Biology cluster. In this multidisciplinary team, plant cell biologists, developmental biologists, and molecular biologists work together to address complex challenges. “Here, I feel at home and have the opportunity to deepen research into plant reproduction further and to enhance its impact.”