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Bonnie Johnson
October 16, 2026
Media ArticlePatrick “Pat” Schnable, C.F. Curtiss Distinguished Professor and Iowa Corn Endowed Chair of Genetics at Iowa State University, has been selected to receive the 2027 Barbara McClintock Prize for Plant Genetics and Genome Studies. The award recognizes his significant contributions to maize genetics, breeding, and genomics.
The McClintock Prize and medal will be presented during the 2027 Maize Genetics Meeting in Chicago. Schnable is also scheduled to deliver a plenary address to an international audience of researchers and plant scientists.
Throughout his career, Schnable has made major advances in maize genetics and genomics. His achievements include cloning genes that restore fertility in male-sterile maize, co-leading the sequencing of the maize genome, and identifying extensive genetic variation within maize.
His research has also helped improve understanding of how naturally occurring genetic differences influence crop responses to environmental conditions. These discoveries have provided a foundation for further advances in plant science and crop improvement.
Beyond his research, Schnable is recognized for mentoring future scientists and promoting collaboration across scientific disciplines. He has trained numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers who now hold positions in academia and industry around the world.
Schnable is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the National Academy of Inventors. He also serves as director of Iowa State University’s Plant Sciences Institute.
Photo Credit: Iowa State University
