Scientists at the VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology and VIVES University College have developed a new method to genetically improve poplar trees without introducing foreign DNA into its genome. This advancement could pave the way for faster and more widely accepted use of gene-edited trees in forestry and the bio-based economy. The work appeared in New Phytologist.  

Each year, Clarivate honors the world's ‘Highly Cited Researchers’ – exceptional scientists whose work ranks among the top 1% most cited in their field, showcasing their groundbreaking influence on global research. This year, we're excited to announce that 21 VIB researchers have earned this prestigious recognition for their remarkable contributions to science.

Professors Wout Boerjan (VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology) and John Ralph (University of Wisconsin-Madison, US) have been awarded the 2024 Marcus Wallenberg Prize for their pioneering contributions to understanding lignin biosynthesis and its structural diversity. The prize was presented by King Carl XVI Gustaf in Stockholm on November 11.

Did you know that engineering plant cell walls might be the key to a sustainable, plant-based future? In our latest Scientist on Stage blog, Lennart Hoengenaert, a postdoctoral researcher at the VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology, tells you all about it!