Pioneer Member

Shreya Ahuja – During my internship in the Advanced Technology Department at Dow AgroSciences in Indianapolis, I had the privilege of working under the supervision of Pon Samuel, an exceptional leader in plant biology. He guided me through a project involving the development of a novel cell-based assay using Zinc Finger Nucleases and mentored me in thinking critically about scientific problem-solving. Pon was always available to review results, plan next steps, and provide insight, creating an environment that encouraged both learning and innovation. His mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping my academic and professional journey, helping me focus my career goals toward industrial research. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to work with him and continue to benefit from his guidance today.

Mike Ainley – Pon is an extraordinarily original thinker whose “outside-the-box” approach consistently leads to new concepts, innovative strategies, and fresh scientific directions. Combining his remarkable memory with an exceptional ability to synthesize complex information across disciplines, Pon frequently identifies connections and opportunities that others overlook. His insights have repeatedly opened new avenues of investigation and advanced the thinking of those around him.

Equally remarkable is the immense respect Pon commands throughout the scientific community. He has long been regarded as a trusted resource by researchers at every career stage, including individuals at the highest levels of scientific leadership and research administration. Scientists routinely seek his perspective because they recognize both the depth of his knowledge and the soundness of his judgment.

Pon’s impact extends far beyond his own scholarship. His commitment to helping others—scientifically and personally—is one of his defining characteristics. He has mentored countless scientists, many of whom have gone on to distinguished careers themselves, and he is unfailingly generous with his time, advice, and encouragement. His vast network of colleagues and friends reflects not only the scope of his collaborations, but also the genuine loyalty and admiration he inspires in others. Pon also has a strong religious faith, which is reflected in how he supports and respects others.

Naming Pon a Pioneer of ASPB is fitting and well-deserved recognition for a scientist whose contributions have profoundly shaped both scientific progress and the community itself.

Sheena Becker – Pon Samuel always went out of his way to connect with and mentor younger scientists. Even once he had moved from Indianapolis to Johnston, he would reach out to me to reconnect at least once a year when he was back in Indy. He was also constantly looking for opportunities to connect younger scientists with newer technology and innovation.

Dinakar  Bhattramakki – It is with great admiration and respect that I am supporting Dr. Pon Samuel’s recognition as a Pioneer Member of the American Society of Plant Biologists. Dr. Samuel’s career exemplifies the spirit of innovation, mentorship, and leadership that this distinction seeks to honor.

Dr. Samuel has made transformative contributions to plant biotechnology over a distinguished career that bridges academia and industry. From his early post-doctoral work at the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, to several years as a scientist at Dow Agro Science and Corteva Agriscience, Dr. Samuel has consistently advanced the frontiers of plant science. His pioneering work in molecular delivery systems, gene editing technologies, and nanoparticle-mediated delivery has not only deepened our understanding of plant biology but also enabled practical solutions in agriculture and animal health.

With over 50 peer-reviewed publications and more than 30 patents, Dr. Samuel’s scientific output is both prolific and impactful. His leadership in licensing proprietary genome editing tools to industry competitors reflects a commitment to collaborative progress and scientific openness.

Beyond his technical achievements, Dr. Samuel is a dedicated mentor and community leader. He has nurtured the growth of emerging scientists through formal mentorship programs, earning the DAS Trait Product Development Mentorship Award in 2017. His service to the Society for In Vitro Biology—as convener, chair, and co-chair of the program planning committee, and as a member of the Development Committee—demonstrates his unwavering support for the scientific community. His outreach efforts, including NSF-sponsored workshops with Morgan State University, underscore his passion for inclusive education and training.

Dr. Samuel’s career is a testament to the power of science guided by purpose, integrity, and generosity. His legacy continues to inspire colleagues, collaborators, and the next generation of plant biologists.

As a former colleague, I am proud to support Dr. Pon Samuel’s recognition as a Pioneer Member of ASPB, as a testament to his outstanding scientific contributions and his enduring impact as a mentor, colleague, and leader.

Kate Camacho – In your career, there are one or two mentors that truly guide the shape of your career and break the preconceived notions of what is possible and what defines success. These mentors are radical innovators, they practice servant leadership, and they manage their employees with empathy.

This person to me was Pon.

Early on in my career I was fortunate enough to work alongside him as he pushed research to the limits in the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Pon showed me that success is not achieved through a linear path, but rather through staying true to yourself and what sparks your curiosity. I cannot think of any other person more deserving of recognition for the impact he has had on so many scientists throughout his career.

Sreekala Chellamma – Dr. Pon Samuel is an accomplished scientist. The most significant contribution among others is his commitment to students and upcoming researchers in the field of plant biology. Many thanks to Pon for all his contributions and mentorship!

Mary Frank – Throughout his distinguished career, Pon Samuel has exemplified technical excellence, a collaborative spirit, and dedicated mentorship. As a co-inventor of the Enlist E3^TM weed control system, he was instrumental in providing farmers with a durable and flexible tool to control herbicide-resistant weeds, directly improving their productivity.
Beyond his own scientific achievements, Pon has always been passionate about fostering scientific exchange. His giving nature and willingness to mentor have left a lasting impact, with many early-career scientists seeking his advice years after their internships or collaborations have ended. This legacy of leadership—evidenced by 54 publications, collaborations with eight universities, and 33 published patents—clearly demonstrates why Pon is so deserving of this recognition.
Congratulations, Pon!

Anna Grommes-Yeager – In addition to his remarkable scientific accomplishments in the field of plant biology, Pon has always been a wonderful supporter of his colleagues and trainees. His innate ability to make connections and inspire others is very impressive. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to collaborate with him at Corteva.

Sydney Lara – I first met Pon in 2022 during a brainstorming session focused on developing new insect screening assays. From that day forward, I had the privilege of working alongside him daily. Initially, I was intimidated by his vast knowledge of plant science, unsure whether I could meaningfully contribute to his vision. It didn’t take long, however, to realize that Pon is not just an exceptional scientist driven by results, but also a warm, compassionate teacher.
Each day, Pon encouraged my curiosity and inspired deeper, more thoughtful engagement with our work. In moments of self-doubt, he took the time to meet with me privately, offering mentorship in ways I will never be able to fully repay. He instilled confidence in me and led by example—both professionally and personally. I am a better scientist and a better person because of the time I had working closely with him.
Even now, I often find myself asking, in both my professional and personal life, “How would Pon approach this?” That lasting influence speaks volumes about the depth of his mentorship. One of the most remarkable aspects of Pon’s scientific ability is his capacity to think creatively and adapt when unexpected challenges arise during experiments. His deep understanding of plant biology and physiology allows him to make connections that many others might miss, turning obstacles into opportunities for discovery. This rare combination of insight and adaptability is a defining reason Pon is recognized as a scientist of global distinction.
When changes within our place of work meant that I would no longer have Pon as my supervisor, I deeply felt the loss of his daily guidance. Those three years I worked alongside him remain one of the most formative periods of my life, and I consider it a true blessing that I was placed in that brainstorming group back in 2022. That first interaction has proven to be one of the most impactful learning experiences of my career.
Pon’s influence extends far beyond those he works with directly. His impact has been felt by countless individuals across the scientific community and beyond, leaving a lasting impression not only through his contributions to plant science but through the genuine care he shows towards others.
I am incredibly honored to call Pon my mentor and friend. Pon is more than deserving of recognition by the American Society of Plant Biologists, and I give him my strongest and most heartfelt support for his recognition as a Pioneer of ASPB.

P Lor  – When I was unsure what I wanted to pursue in life, Pon showed me plants, science and people. He has an unwavering passion for science that is infectious. Because of him, I get excited about the possibilities science can bring, I am proud of the contributions I get to make through the projects I work on, and I can’t wait to share the things he has taught me with a new generation.

Anna  Lorber – It is with deep respect and sincere admiration that I write this testimonial for Pon, a truly remarkable individual whose impact on my life, my career, and the lives of countless others cannot be overstated. Pon was not only an outstanding scientist and an extraordinary innovator, but also a mentor whose wisdom and care for others set a standard to which we all aspire.

From the moment I started working with Pon, I was struck by his intellect and his curiosity. He has a rare ability to see connections where others saw only complexity, and his innovative spirit was matched only by his rigorous scientific approach. Pon’s contributions to our field were not just significant—they were incredibly transformative. His research and ideas have shaped the direction of our work, and will forever impact how we move forward as scientists.

But what truly set Pon apart was not just his brilliance, but his willingness to share it. As a mentor, Pon was generous with his time and knowledge, always ready to offer guidance, encouragement, or a thoughtful challenge. He had an uncanny ability to recognize potential in others and to nurture it, helping colleagues and students alike to grow into their best selves. Many of us owe our professional development—and, indeed, our confidence—to Pon’s patient mentorship and unwavering belief in our abilities.

Throughout his career, Pon touched the lives of hundreds of people, leaving an indelible mark on our community. His legacy is not only in the groundbreaking work he accomplished, but in the culture of curiosity, collaboration, and compassion that he fostered. He inspired us to think bigger, to work harder, and to care more deeply—not just about our work, but about each other.

On a personal note, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to have known and worked alongside Pon. His influence has shaped my career and my outlook in ways that words cannot fully capture. I am a better scientist, a better colleague, and a better person because of him. I am lucky to say that I have worked with such a once in a lifetime kind of person/scientist.

Lori Marcum – I began my career at Dow AgroSciences as a contractor under Pon’s leadership. Throughout this formative period, Pon’s exemplary mentorship and guidance were instrumental in shaping both my personal and scientific growth. His influence has made me a better person and scientist and has been a key factor in the success I enjoy in my career today.

Working with Pon was truly exciting. Each morning, I looked forward to new opportunities for learning and discovery. Rather than simply directing his team, Pon engaged us through thoughtful questions, encouraging us to consider what we were trying to achieve, why it mattered, and how best to approach our work. This approach fostered critical thinking and a deeper understanding.

Pon is widely recognized for his scientific brilliance and prolific innovation. Early in his career, he discovered anatomical structures of specialized air passages in Liliaceae and identified two auxin-like plant growth regulators. At Corteva, Pon played a pivotal role in the development and advancement of key products for maize, soybean, and cotton, including Corteva’s Enlist™ Maize and Soybean products. His other notable innovations include the creation of a rapid protoplast-testing system, several assays that accelerate screening processes, and an extensive portfolio of nanotechnology delivery intellectual property, among many others. I had the privilege of witnessing Pon’s ingenuity firsthand, as he consistently succeeded in projects that were initially thought impossible.

Beyond his scientific achievements, Pon is deeply passionate about both science and people. He is absolutely selfless, dedicating himself to supporting fellow scientists, students, the company, and organizations like ASPB. What began for me as just a job became a deeply fulfilling scientific career, thanks to Pon’s dedication to developing those around him.

Nadaraj  Palaniappan – Great Scientist, Mentor and Friend.

Dayakar Pareddy – Pon is truly a distinguished scholar and scientist in plant biology. As a colleague, I was closely associated with him for almost two decades at Dow AgroSciences. He conducted pioneering research on plant cell cultures, novel delivery systems and genetic transformation methods. His innovative approaches and problem-solving skills using advanced technologies resulted in highly impactful contributions, for example: development of novel cell culture systems for gene testing, totipotent green cell cultures for plastid transformation, and nanoparticle delivery, to name a few. These contributions have resulted in the creation of significant intellectual property, publications, and discovery of groundbreaking traits such as Enlist.

Pon’s in-depth knowledge in plant physiology, molecular and cell biology, and biotechnology, as well as his collaborations with internal and external researchers, contributed to the establishment of high throughput transformation systems in corn and soybean, and development of highly valuable commercial transgenic products, i.e., Enlist/E3 soybean, Enlist corn, Enlist cotton, as well as novel transformation technologies (i.e., gene targeting, selectable markers). He has received several awards for his outstanding scientific achievements, excellent teamwork, and mentoring. Furthermore, through his broad technical knowledge, passion for science and insights into problem-solving, Pon mentored and inspired so many interns, research assistants, and fellow researchers before and during his tenure at Dow AgroSciences – scientists who have now established their own robust careers in academia or private industry. His legacy will continue to inspire new generation of scientists and researchers.

Nagesh Sardesai – Pon Samuel stands as a visionary in plant biotechnology, with a career spanning over three decades marked by groundbreaking innovations and leadership. As a Corteva Distinguished Laureate, he spearheaded transformative technologies such as nanodelivery platforms, ZFN genome editing systems, and mRNA delivery solutions, which have redefined the possibilities in crop improvement and accelerated product development timelines. His ability to integrate advanced science with practical applications has positioned him as a global leader in agricultural innovation. For me, Pon’s achievements have been deeply inspiring. I first met him when I interviewed for a position at Dow AgroSciences, where he made me feel very comfortable and at ease talking about the history of Agrobacterium biology. His relentless pursuit of innovation and his commitment to mentoring others have shaped my perspective on research leadership. Observing his ability to bridge fundamental science with industry impact has motivated me to prioritize collaboration, creativity, and mentorship in my own work. His example reinforces the importance of pushing boundaries while nurturing talent—a philosophy that continues to influence my approach to scientific challenges and team development.

Rodrigo Sarria – I have known Pon since 2010 when I joined Dow Agrosciences. I remember very well that as we were developing a portfolio of biotechnology discovery and development initiatives, Pon’s name came up multiple times to participate in and support several of those initiatives. As I got to know him better I came to realize that the regard his peers have for him as a scientist is not only well merited but also making a difference. Since then, Pon and I have collaborated for 9 years, up to the first years of Corteva, in various scientific initiatives and I always counted on Pon’s technical counsel, support and scientific leadership. Now from the distance I see the impact he has not only within the Corteva organization but the plant science community at large. I can only think of few individuals as deserving as Pon for this recognition. Congratulations dear friend.

Kelley Smith – I had the privilege of working with Pon in discovery research for many years, particularly in developing product concepts through plant transformation innovation. His curiosity and creativity were endless, always sharing new ideas to explore based on new insights from his reading of the literature, discussions with colleagues, and long hours of contemplation. Pon was diligent and thorough in evaluating these ideas, all while generously mentoring numerous interns and junior scientists. His influence has left a lasting imprint on the careers of many, shaping both the direction and quality of their scientific journeys. It is a true honor to recognize his remarkable contributions – not only as a scientist, but also as a valued colleague and individual of exceptional character.

Laura Wayne – Pon, I have always loved scientific discussions with you. The free feeling of thinking outside the box, coming up with new ideas, and sharing them is invigorating. Keep pursuing your ideas and follow where ever the trail takes you.

Mary Welter – One of the reasons a career in the sciences appealed to me was the thought of being able to learn something new and different every day. Working with Pon was a treasure trove of learning new concepts and techniques. Not only was he generous with his time in teaching and mentoring others on the science but he also led by example on how to be a project leader to others. Never in my life of 35 years working in a research setting have I worked with someone that has the same depth of knowledge of the plant sciences and the ability to connect all the dots from diverse sets of data to make sense of it all. I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with him and to be his friend.

Terry Wright –  It is an honor to add my testimony in support of Pon Samuel as an ASPB Pioneer Member. I unreservedly consider Pon among the most intellectually gifted individuals I have met. The breadth and depth of his technical knowledge, skill, and passion are beyond normal human comprehension. His ability to accurately recall facts and minute details from conversations and interactions decades in the past has left me speechless repeatedly. Now that we have known each other for a quarter of a century, I can look back and thank God for the opportunity to have met, become friends and colleagues with Pon, and enjoyed many struggles and successes together. There is no better feeling than to tackle technical problems and challenges with teams of talented individuals applying their unique skills together to address needs that no one person could solve alone. My favorite memory is the small group of engaged individuals that nucleated around Pon’s network and expertise to enable the production of Enlist, Enlist E3, and Conkesta soybean events. Thank you, Pon, for making these possible!
Pon, you remain a driven, curious, and productive scientist who has an unwavering commitment to help others in their learning and development. You’ve demonstrated time and time again through efforts to hire and develop summer interns, to work with colleagues in many different workgroups, and to advance to objectives of Dow AgroSciences / Corteva throughout your industry career. You’ve been a “Distinguished Laureate” in my book for many years and I am proud you have received your due recognition as a Pioneer of ASPB. I wish you all the best as you continue your impact in your new chapter.

Kerrm Yau – I am honored to recognize Dr. Pon Samuel as an ASPB Pioneer. Pon is not only an innovative scientist but also an inspiring mentor and a trusted friend. Over the years, we have collaborated on multiple projects that led to several publications and patent applications—most notably, a promising technology involving nanomaterials.

Our work spanned diverse areas, from plant transformation to protein expression and engineering. Through these efforts, we had the privilege of engaging with exceptional graduate students and collaborating with leading experts across institutions. These connections have become some of the most valuable assets in our scientific careers.

Yet, beyond the science, what stands out most is Pon’s unwavering support and genuine care for those around him. His mentorship is generous, his collaboration is selfless, and his friendship is steadfast. Working with Pon has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional life.

It is with deep respect and enthusiasm that I recognize Dr. Pon Samuel as a Pioneer of ASPB.

Anonymous – In honor of Pon’s past and continuing contributions to the Plant Biology community.