The W.J. White Professorship enables the holder to further his or her own research in plant sciences. Selection guidelines are based on excellence in research and contributions to Canadian and Saskatchewan agriculture. Full professors of the Department of Plant Sciences/Crop Development Centre (CDC) in the university’s College of Agriculture and Bioresources are eligible for the appointment.

Hucl was selected for the professorship based on his career as a spring wheat and canaryseed breeder with the CDC.

As a research scientist and professor with the CDC since 1990, Hucl has released 14 spring wheat varieties and three canaryseed varieties, and has acted as the co-developer on 18 various pulse, and spring wheat varieties. Among some of his releases are CDC Go and CDC Osler red spring wheat, and CDC Bastia and CDC Togo canaryseed.

In addition to his research activities, Hucl has been active in extension activities including industry meetings, telephone and radio interviews, field days and tours. He has also acted as supervisor, co-supervisor or committee member for more than 35 postgraduate students and undergraduate students.

He was honoured by the Saskatchewan Seed Growers Association with an honorary life membership in 2005.

The W.J. White Professorship was established in 1986 to honour William James White, former head of the Department of Field Husbandry (now the Department of Plant Sciences) and dean emeritus of the College of Agriculture.

White was well known for his early work with forage crops and sunflower breeding. He developed the first sunflower hybrid that was grown in both Manitoba and Texas, a variety that was one of the best in Texas for many years.

White was also instrumental in introducing rapeseed to Canadian farmers, the crop that is today known as canola. White was the first rapeseed breeder in North America, and is credited with having the foresight and skill for laying the groundwork for what is now one of Canada’s most valuable grain crops.

Located in the heart of Saskatoon, the University of Saskatchewan is one of the leading medical doctoral universities in Canada. With 58 degrees, diplomas and certificates in over 100 areas of study, the University is uniquely positioned in the areas of human, animal and plant studies. World-class research facilities, renowned faculty and award winning students make the U of S a leader in post-secondary education.

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For additional information, to request photos and to arrange interviews, contact:

Gloria Gingera, Communications Assistant
Department of Plant Sciences and Crop Development Centre
College of Agriculture and Bioresources
University of Saskatchewan
Telephone: (306) 966-4958
Email: gloria.gingera@usask.ca