Dr. Robert Shatters is the Research Leader for the Subtropical Insects and Horticulture Research Unit at the U. S. Horticultural Research Laboratory in Fort Pierce, FL. He received a Ph.D. from Washington State University (1988) in Genetics and Cell Biology. He has been a research scientist with the USDA, ARS for 32 years where his research focus has been on applying molecular, cellular and biotechnology approaches to real-world agricultural crop production problems. His current work includes developing biologically-based solutions to emerging crop pest and pathogen issues, and to do so through the development of novel techniques that allow rapid deployment of genetic engineering solutions. He is passionate about team building to create energy-rich environments within which research leads to innovative agricultural solutions. Dr. Shatters has published over 115 peer-reviewed papers and holds four patents on his research, two of which are under license. Currently, he leads the USDA, ARS Citrus Grand Challenge, and co-leads (with Michelle Heck) an ARSX202 award and a team of ARS, university and private sector scientists in a $15 million USDA NIFA grant. These team projects focus on development of solutions to citrus greening disease. A disease that has reduced Florida citrus production by over 70% and threatens California and Texas.