From Aerospace to Agriculture
When George Cody Bagnall realized how impactful plant science can be, it inspired him to change careers. Shortly after completing his bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, he was introduced to some of the compelling questions in plant science.
“I mistakenly believed that all the major challenges in agriculture and plant science had already been solved,” Cody explains. “As I began to understand the vast and important work still needed in this space, I wanted to be a part of the solution.”
Digging Deeper
This curiosity was the beginning of Cody’s career in plant science. He went on to earn a PhD in agricultural engineering from Texas A&M University. His research was centered on developing in situ root imaging technology, which allows scientists to study plant roots directly in their natural environment. This kind of imaging technology has become essential because it can capture images of plants as they grow, providing real-time insights into how they interact with soil, water, and nutrients. It was this work that ultimately led him to his current role as Danforth Center Field Research Site Director.
“Through this journey,” says Cody, “I have grown to love the work I do and the impact it can have—both on individuals and entire communities—by improving food and fiber production while reducing the environmental impact of agricultural systems.”
Innovation in Action
Now, Cody is director of the Danforth Center’s Field Research Site, 140 acres of farmland in St. Charles, Missouri, set aside for field research. Here, scientists can put promising results to the ultimate test: how will their research translate to the field?
“The Field Research Site occupies a unique position, bridging applied and basic plant science with environmental and management realities, Cody explains. “Our scale and infrastructure allow us to facilitate this critical intersection, enabling researchers to test hypotheses under authentic field conditions, but with the support and infrastructure that is rarely available at larger scale sites.
“By studying how our discoveries perform in authentic field environments—with all their complexities and variables—we ensure that our scientific advances can deliver on their promise to benefit people and the planet.”
Fun Fact
In his free time, Cody enjoys woodturning. He and his wife also have a horse, two mules that they go trail riding with, and a miniature donkey.
