Location History:
- Wilmington, DE (US) (2017 - 2018)
- Johnston, IA (US) (2022)
- Des Moines, IA (US) (2020 - 2023)
Company Filing History:
7 out of 6,602 
3 out of 16,338 
2 out of 10 Years Active: 2017-2025
Title: April L Leonard: Innovator in Plant Pathogen Research
Introduction
April L Leonard is a prominent inventor based in Des Moines, IA (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of plant breeding and disease resistance through her innovative research. With a total of 7 patents, her work focuses on identifying and utilizing genes that enhance plant resistance to various diseases.
Latest Patents
Among her latest patents is a groundbreaking invention related to plant pathogen effectors and disease resistance gene identification. This patent encompasses compositions and methods that are crucial for plant breeding, specifically in identifying and selecting disease resistance genes and plant pathogen effector genes. The methods provided allow for the identification of novel genes that encode plant pathogen effector proteins and proteins that confer resistance to various diseases. These disease-resistant genes are instrumental in producing resilient plants through breeding, transgenic modification, or genome editing.
Another notable patent involves methods for identifying, selecting, and producing southern corn rust resistant crops. This field of research is vital for plant breeding, as it focuses on identifying and selecting plants that exhibit resistance to southern corn rust. The methods outlined in this patent also facilitate the discovery of novel genes that encode proteins providing resistance to this specific disease, further aiding in the production of resistant plants.
Career Highlights
April has worked with esteemed companies such as Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. and E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Company. Her experience in these organizations has allowed her to apply her innovative ideas in practical settings, contributing to advancements in agricultural biotechnology.
Collaborations
Throughout her career, April has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Bailin Li and Marc C Albertsen. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that enhances research outcomes and drives innovation in plant disease resistance.
Conclusion
April L Leonard is a trailblazer in the field of plant pathogen research, with a focus on developing disease-resistant crops. Her innovative patents and collaborations have significantly impacted agricultural practices, paving the way for future advancements in plant breeding and biotechnology.