News & Events

Plant biology is the study of how plants grow, function and respond to their environments. Plant biologists address challenges like food security, climate change and sustainable agriculture. It’s no exaggeration to say that all life relies on plants. 

“Plants feed the world,” says Danielle Levi, my labmate in the Zerbe Lab and a third-year plant biology major. “Climate change is threatening global food security, and we need to find more sustainable ways to feed our growing population while minimizing environmental impacts.” 

As I begin my tenure as Dean of the College of Biological Sciences, I want to start by saying how honored I am to have the opportunity to serve this remarkable community.

I also want to express my deep gratitude to Mark Winey for his stewardship over the past decade. The college is stronger because of Mark’s leadership and because of the extraordinary dedication and resilience of our faculty, staff, students, and supporters. I am grateful for all that has been accomplished thus far, and excited about the opportunities ahead.

I am writing for the first time as the former dean of our college. The last decade of collaboration in support of our faculty, staff and students has shown me time and again that our college is made up of an extraordinary community. Whether you are a member of our esteemed faculty or one of our outstanding staff, you have my thanks for your ongoing support of our college. 

Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (EDMD) is a devastating genetic disease that causes progressive muscle weakness and wasting. EDMD is caused by mutations in proteins within the nuclear envelope, yet the disease disrupts the organization and function of entire muscle cells. A new study by UC Davis researchers reveals one mechanism that may explain this connection.

Frédéric Chédin will step into the role of dean of the College of Biological Sciences, or CBS, on Sept. 1. Chédin, a faculty member and chair in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, said the college’s strengths are its singular focus on the life sciences and its exceptional faculty, students and staff. 

Having spent his career at UC Davis, Chédin credited the CBS community as the reason for his long tenure on campus.