Nikolai Vavilov
Botanist and geneticist, seed collector

Born
November 25th, 1887
137 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1943
82 years ago — 55 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Russia
Links & References
A prominent botanist and geneticist, contributions included significant work on plant genetics and the collection of seeds. Established the Vavilov Institute of Plant Industry in Saint Petersburg, which became a leading institution in agricultural science. Conducted extensive research on seed diversity, leading to the identification of centers of origin for cultivated plants. Arrested during the Stalinist purges, died while imprisoned due to starvation.
Developed theories on the origin of cultivated plants
Conducted seed collecting expeditions worldwide
Established the Vavilov Institute of Plant Industry
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