Famoso Named Director Of LSU AgCenter H. Rouse Caffey Rice Research Station

OLIVIA MCCLURE

CROWLEY, LOUISIANA

The LSU AgCenter has named Adam Famoso resident director and research coordinator of its H. Rouse Caffey Rice Research Station near Crowley.

Famoso, a rice breeder who has been central to the station’s variety development efforts, assumed the role Jan. 1.

He now oversees an acclaimed research facility where scientists not only create new rice varieties but also study strategies for managing pests and overcoming agronomic challenges — work that is critical to keeping farmers profitable.

Rice has an annual economic impact of more than $550 million in Louisiana. And the benefits of the station’s research can be seen in countries around the world where rice is a staple crop.

“By becoming resident director and research coordinator while still directing the LSU AgCenter rice variety development program, Dr. Famoso will be able to maximize the efficient use of Rice Research Station resources going forward to continue to support and enhance the development of rice varieties, which are so critical to the economic viability of the Louisiana rice industry,” said Michael Salassi, executive associate vice president of the AgCenter and director of its research arm, the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station.

Kurt Guidry, an economist and the previous resident director, is now an assistant resident director providing support to Famoso and helping lead station operations.

Famoso came to the AgCenter in 2015. A native of New Jersey, he earned his doctorate in plant breeding and genetics from Cornell University in 2010. He previously worked for DuPont Pioneer (Corteva).

At the AgCenter, he has used his expertise in molecular genetics and incorporated new technologies to advance the rice breeding program. 

“I am excited to work with our faculty, administration, producers and the rice industry in this capacity,” Famoso said. “Our commitment remains steadfast in optimizing resources to deliver industry-focused and impactful research and extension services.” ∆

OLIVIA MCCLURE: LSU AgCenter