Ashwin Mysore A., MSc
Ph.D. Candidate – Agriculture, Food and Environment Program
Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy
Tufts University, Boston, MA
2005–2009
Mentor Dr. Kennedy, Dr. Rosenberg & Dr. Merrigan
Recent Work
Golden Rice, which is genetically engineered to produce vitamin A in rice endosperm, is highly influential in the debate concerning the advantages that the controversial genetically engineered crops hold for the developing countries. The crop is yet to be commercialized and our understanding of the likely impact of its introduction and cultivation is based on ex-ante studies, which, while being useful, offer mostly an economist’s analysis and perspective. A more comprehensive examination would thus be useful for professionals involved with agricultural development and nutrition, and policy makers in developing countries.
My dissertation research, planned on the possible golden rice introduction in India, has the following objectives:
- To identify and analyze the various factors which could influence the development of Indian GR varieties, their delivery to VAD rice producers and realization of benefits from technology adoption.
- To develop a typology of rice producers based on their intention to adopt GR varieties
- To develop a framework for analysis and further, identify and analyze the ‘seed supply system reforms’ needed for delivery of GR varieties to the farmers
Dr Eileen Kennedy, Dean, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy is chair of my dissertation thesis committee.