Graduated from:
- Penn State Erie, The Behrend College (USA)
- Washington State University (USA)
- Cornell University (USA)
Location History:
- Washington, NC (US) (2004)
- Raleigh, NC (US) (2007 - 2024)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2004-2025
George Craig Yencho: Distinguished Professor. Global Collaborator. Agricultural Innovator.
With over 25 years at the intersection of science, sustainability, and food security, Dr. Yencho has built a legacy in plant breeding that bridges cutting-edge genetics with real-world impact, from American farms to African fields. A seasoned professor in higher education, he is widely recognized for his in-depth expertise in the genetic mapping of key traits in potatoes and sweet potatoes, crops that are not only staple foods but also economic lifelines for millions worldwide.
Dr. Yencho's research spans from the practical to the visionary, developing high-yield, high-profitability cultivars; crafting bio-based, value-added products such as fries, chips, and natural colorants; and expanding the aesthetic potential of sweet potatoes for the ornamental and floricultural industries. His commitment to participatory breeding programs in sub-Saharan Africa has empowered farmers, strengthened food systems, and catalyzed sustainable agricultural development in regions that need it most.
His program thrives on a rich tapestry of support, ranging from state and federal agencies to international NGOs, commodity associations, private-sector partners, and university endowments. This collaborative model has not only advanced science but has also ensured that innovation reaches the hands of those who need it.
To date, he has mentored six postdoctoral scientists and four visiting scholars and guided 32 graduate students, 16 at the master’s level and 16 pursuing their Ph.D.s. His scholarly output includes over 70 peer-reviewed journal articles, seven book chapters, and an impressive portfolio of 42 developed potato and sweet potato varieties. He is also the co-recipient of more than 55 U.S. and international plant patents, a testament to both the scientific rigor and global relevance of his work.
In a world grappling with the dual challenges of feeding a growing population and preserving natural resources, Dr. Yencho is not just a scientist, he is a steward of the future.
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