Research Focus
Dr. Dick Auld works to develop unique fibers and oils with cotton and oilseed crops that enhance the value of Texas Agriculture. Auld’s research program uses conventional genetics, mutagenesis, and agronomic production strategies. “Our research concentrates on field-based work with lab analysis of chemical composition and structure,” says Auld. He says that “Research is a discovery process, based on observations shown to you…this opens doors around the world…Research is also a balancing act between doing what you know will work and taking a chance on what might work.”
Importance of Graduate Students
“Graduate students are the infantry…a project is uncharted territory…I dedicate a graduate student to be that project’s first explorer,” says Auld. In addition, it is exciting to see the synthesis of research associated with teams and ideas. Auld says that “Real science is a team effort, not just one person in the lab or field, scientists support a commonality of purpose.”
Research Future
Dr. Auld plans to continue his current research, and is interested in starting things that future students and faculty can continue, with the “heavy lifting already done.” He hopes his research can help both the University and the state of Texas.
Dick Auld, Ph.D. - Rockwell Endowed Chair in Plant and Soil Science
Texas Tech University,
Department of Plant and Soil Science,
Campus Box 42122, Lubbock, TX 79409 
806. 742-2838 