Strauss, Steven

Position Type: 
Faculty
Job Title: 
University Distinguished Professor of Forest Biotechnology
Department: 
Forest Ecosystems & Society
Office Location: 

338 Richardson Hall

Phone Number: 
(541) 737-6578
Activities/Awards: 
OSU Industry Partnering Award, 2014
Forest Biotechnology Partners Forest Biotechnologist of the Year, 2009
Leopold Leadership Fellow, 2005
Barrington-Moore Memorial Award from the Society of American Foresters, 2001
Education: 
B.S., 1978, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
M.F.S., 1980, Yale University, New Haven, CT
Ph.D., 1985, University of California, Berkeley
Research Areas: 
  • Genetics and Physiology
Research Interests: 
  • Biotechnology
  • Forest Genetics
Genetic engineering and genomic approaches to understanding and improving trees for plantation forestry and horticulture. Interdisciplinary analysis to understand, and propose, improvements to regulations of genetically engineered crops and trees.
Bio: 
I have been working in tree and plant biotechnology—teaching, providing outreach to the public, and conducting research—for more than 35 years. I run an active genetic transformation (gene insertion) lab that has produced thousands of transgenic trees for basic science and forestry or horticulture goals. We have also tested many of trees these in the field under government permits. Because of the demand for reliable information on GMO crops and trees by the public, I have given numerous lectures to the public, wrote papers about policy options for improved regulations, and for ~15 years taught an interdisciplinary course on the science and social views of genes and chemicals in agriculture. It is offered spring term. When not working, you can usually find me running in the hills around Corvallis, refereeing competitive high school soccer, road biking, or enjoying the many fine beers and wines produced here in Oregon. My BIO statement, CV, and publication list gives the gory details! Please email me if you are a journalist, or interested in undergraduate, graduate, or postdoctoral research. Please email me if you are interested in undergraduate, graduate, or postdoctoral research.

Advising

Graduate Major Advisor
Graduate Students: 
Courses Taught: 
  • FS-TOX 435/535
    Genes and Chemicals in Agriculture: Value and Risk
    3 credits FS 435 / 535, TOX 435 / 535 Satisfies Bac Core Course in Synthesis category of Science, Technology & Society

Complete Publications List:

For a complete list of publications, visit Publications