Rate My Professor Steve Strauss

Steven H. Strauss is a University Distinguished Professor of Forest Biotechnology in the Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society at Oregon State University, where he joined the faculty in 1985. He holds a BS in Biological Sciences from Cornell University, an MFS from Yale University, and a PhD from the University of California, Berkeley. Strauss directs the GREAT TREES research cooperative, formed in 1994, which develops efficient genetic engineering and gene editing methods for trees used in plantation forestry and horticulture, targeting species such as poplar, eucalyptus, and hops. From 2004 to 2013, he led the OSU Program for Outreach in Resource Biotechnology to foster public understanding and science-based discussions on biotechnology in food and natural resources. His laboratory has generated thousands of transgenic trees and conducted field trials under government permits. Strauss has authored over 200 scientific papers and delivered hundreds of invited lectures on tree biotechnology and genetics. Notable publications include "Social and biological innovations are essential to deliver transformative forest biotechnologies" (New Phytologist, 2024), "Certification for gene-edited forests" (Science, 2019), "Genetically engineered trees: Paralysis from good intentions" (Science, 2015), and the book chapter "Lessons from Two Decades of Field Trials with Genetically Modified Trees in the USA" (2016).

Strauss has obtained approximately 30 million dollars in competitive grants from federal agencies and industry partners. He has mentored dozens of graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and staff. His contributions extend to policy advising for governments and service on panels at the National Research Council, National Science Foundation, and U.S. Department of Agriculture. As an editor for New Phytologist for more than 10 years, he has shaped advancements in plant science. Awards recognizing his achievements include the Barrington-Moore Memorial Award from the Society of American Foresters (2001), Leopold Leadership Fellowship (2005), Fellowship of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (2009), Forest Biotechnologist of the Year from Forest Biotechnology Partners (2009), and OSU Industry Partnering Award (2014). Strauss's work has significantly influenced science, policy, and stewardship in forest biotechnologies.