Call for nomination of new members to US Rosaceae Genomics, Genetics and Breeding Executive Committee (RosEXEC):

The mission of the RosEXEC is to:

ˇ Serve as a communication and coordination focal point for the US Rosaceae genomics, genetics and breeding community.

ˇ Define research priorities based on input from the industry and research community.

ˇ Facilitate scientific interaction and foster dynamic research teams.

ˇ Promote research priorities.

ˇ Coordinate educational efforts from the research community to the industry and the public.

After 3 years of excellent service the following US members (Chris Dardick, Amit Dhingra, Jim Luby, Cameron Peace and Gayle Volk) are rotating off the RosEXEC committee in January 2011.

In 2010, five new RosEXEC members will be elected to a 3 year term to replace them in January 2011.   All members of the Rosaceae community are invited to nominate candidates for election.  Nomination of candidates who have not previously served on the RosEXEC and representatives of industry are encouraged. Members who will continue to serve in 2011 include Angela Baldo, Jim Hancock, Jim McFerson, Bryon Sosinski, Philip Stewart, Nahla Bassil, John Clark, Kevin Folta, Ksenija Gasic, Amy Iezzoni and Jay Norelli, so no need to nominate them as they will already be serving.

International liaison members rotating off this year include Jasper Rees (Africa) and Eric van de Weg (Europe). Remaining members through 2012 are Herman Silva (South America) and David Chagné (Aus/NZ). Two new members are needed to serve two year terms where we are seeking at least one to be in Europe.  Please nominate candidates to serve as international liaisons and confirm their interest before submitting your nominations, as described below.

Prior to nomination, the nominator is required to contact the nominee and confirm their willingness to serve on RosEXEC. Committee members are expected to participate in quarterly telephone conference meetings and provide several hours of work in support of the RosEXEC mission. Nominations should be sent to Jim McFerson (mcferson@treefruitresearch.com) Chair of the RosEXEC membership committee, and/or Jay Norelli (jay.norelli@ars.usda.gov) RosEXEC Secretary, by September 1, 2010. Nominees will then be contacted by the membership committee and asked to provide a CV or bio, and a brief vision statement. The community-wide election will be held in November.