Prof. Govindjee
- Please tell us about yourself and your research/institution.
I started my research life in 1954 at the University of Allahabad, India, working on the effects of virus infection on the amino acid metabolism of many plants including tobacco. However, after receiving my PhD (in Biophysics) in 1960, from the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign (UIUC), I have focused on Oxygenic Photosynthesis, especially the molecular mechanism of the electron flow from water to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP+), working as an Assistant Professor (1961-1965), an Associate Professor (1965- 1969), a Professor (1969-1999), and then as Professor Emeritus of Plant Biology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, starting in 1999, also at the UIUC. My interaction with Agrisera began (and continues) through discussions on the many wonderful educational posters (https://www.agrisera.com/en/educational-posters).
- What motivated you to get into plant science?
My interest in plants began when I was in the 4th class – through my teacher in what was called ‘Nature study’. Further, during my college days, I detested the idea of ‘dissecting’ animals, but I loved examining plants and their leaves and examining them under microscopes. When I came to the UIUC in 1956, as a graduate student, I began culturing the green alga Chlorella pyrenoidosa, the red alga Porphyridium cruentum, and the cyanobacterium Anacystis nidulans.
Further, I was fascinated with the controversy of the minimum quantum requirement of 3-4 photons (by the Noble laureate Otto Warburg) per oxygen versus 8-12 by the others including my first mentor on ‘Photosynthesis’ Robert Emerson. And, yes, the topic of ‘Primary Photochemistry and Biophysics’ -- from femto-seconds to kilo-seconds- became my life-work – after I interacted with my second – but most influential mentor Eugene Rabinowitch. And hence the commitment to oxygenic photosynthesis at all levels.
- How have you used (Agrisera) antibodies in your research?
Personally, I have not used Agrisera antibodies in my research, but I have been deeply involved in providing detailed information to Agrisera for making educational posters on Oxygenic Photosynthesis (2016), Vertical Z-Scheme (2018), Photosynthesis and Respiration (2019) and Rubisco (2020); these may be accessed at https://www.agrisera.com/en/info/educational-posters.html.
- Any further comments?
I have always enjoyed a wonderful, friendly relationship with Joanna and her team – in person as well as through e-mails and phone conversations. I wish Agrisera the best in all their future endeavors.
Links
• Honoring Govindjee, celebrating 90 years
• Prof. Govindjee - Wikipedia
• Agrisera's Educational Posters
• Agrisera Antibodies - Photosynthesis