Location History:
- Bedford, GB (1998 - 2004)
- Bedfordshire, GB (2004 - 2005)
Company Filing History:
3 out of 682 
3 out of 138 
1 out of 156 
Years Active: 1998-2005
Title: **Richard Safford: Innovative Mind in Plant Biotechnology**
Introduction
Richard Safford is a distinguished inventor based in Bedford, GB, known for his significant contributions to the field of plant biotechnology. With a remarkable portfolio of 8 patents, Safford has pioneered advancements that focus on plant starch compositions and alterations to gene expression in crops.
Latest Patents
Among his latest innovations, Safford developed a patent for a "Plant Starch Composition". This invention discloses a nucleotide sequence encoding an effective portion of a class A starch branching enzyme (SBE) obtained from potato plants. The patent outlines a corresponding polypeptide, a method for altering the characteristics of plants, and specifies starch derived from these potato plants, which possesses novel properties.
Another notable patent focuses on "Nucleic acids from cassava encoding starch branching enzyme II (SBEII) and their use". This invention provides isolated cassava nucleic acids encoding SBEII, along with constructs, vectors, and host cells that incorporate these nucleic acids. The methods described facilitate the alteration of gene expression in cassava, resulting in starch with modified properties.
Career Highlights
Safford has collaborated with notable companies throughout his career, including the National Starch and Chemical Investment Holding Corporation and Lipton, a division of Conopco, Inc. His work has significantly impacted the food industry, particularly in starch production and processing.
Collaborations
Throughout his journey, Safford has worked alongside esteemed colleagues such as Stephen Alan Jobling and David Cooke. These collaborations have undoubtedly played a crucial role in enriching his research and innovation endeavors.
Conclusion
Richard Safford's innovative approach to biotechnology has not only led to the development of essential patents but has also fostered collaboration with leading entities in the industry. His contributions continue to pave the way for advancements in plant science and agricultural development.