Dr. Thomas Molnar

Contact Information

Mailing Address

Rutgers University
Department of Plant Biology & Pathology
Foran Hall/ Cook Campus
59 Dudley Rd.
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
molnar@aesop.rutgers.edu

Campus Location

Office: Room 164 Foran Hall, 848-932-6330

Research Interests

My research program concentrates on the genetic improvement and study of hazelnuts (Corylus) and large-bracted dogwoods (Cornus), and to a lesser extent, several other woody ornamental species. Part of this work includes wide germplasm exploration, collection, and evaluation. A major aspect of our current research is developing and characterizing genetic resistance to eastern filbert blight, a disease which is the primary limiting factor of hazelnut culture in the eastern U.S. Our breeding objectives in both woody ornamentals and nut crops emphasize selection for high levels of disease and pest resistance and cold hardiness.

 

Publications

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Teaching

1. Plant Propagation (11:776:310) - undergraduate course

   Objective of Course: Emphasis is placed on not only learning the techniques involved with the many aspects of modern plant propagation but also the science behind the methods. Students will acquire hands-on experience in the art and science of grafting, budding, rooting of cuttings, seedage, layering, tissue culture/micropropagation, propagation medias, greenhouse environmental control, general plant care, and greenhouse management. By learning the science behind the methods, students will develop a better understanding of why certain propagation methods were successful and why some were not. This will allow students to be better able to solve problems that arise during the propagation and growing of plants.

   1. Sample Course Syllabus
   2. Sample Lecture

Rutgers Affiliations

1. New Jersey Agriculture Experiment Station
2. Rutgers Plant Biology Graduate Program
3. Rutgers Ag Products: Hazelnuts

Extension Publications

1. Hazelnut for Biofuel Production

Other Affiliations

1. American Society of Horticulture Science
2. International Society for Horticultural Science
3. American Phytopathological Society
4. American Association for the Advancement of Science
5. Hybrid Hazelnut Consortium
6. Northern Nut Growers Association
7. North American Fruit Explorers
8. American Pomological Society
9. International Plant Propagators Society
10. Improving Perennial Plants for Food and Bioenergy, Inc.

Dr. Thomas Molnar joined the department in 2004 and was promoted to assistant professor in 2008.