Research Focus

My lifelong scientific interest lies in understanding how chromosomes behave and change — and how such behavior influences genetic expression and heredity.

Cytogenetics of Maize

Working with Zea mays, I developed techniques to visualize chromosomes under the microscope.
These methods enabled me to:
- Demonstrate crossing-over during meiosis.
- Identify the roles of telomeres and centromeres in maintaining chromosome stability.
- Track structural rearrangements in chromosomes across generations.

Discovery of Transposable Elements

In the 1940s and 1950s, I discovered “jumping genes”, or transposons — mobile genetic elements that can change their position within the genome.
This finding revealed that the genome is not static, but instead dynamic and responsive to its environment.

Later Research and Broader Impact

My later work extended into the cytogenetics and ethnobotany of South American maize races, integrating field studies with laboratory cytology.
These findings helped connect genetic variability with the evolutionary adaptation of maize to local environments.

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“A feeling for the organism” — understanding life by working with it patiently, respectfully, and without preconception — remains the heart of my approach to science.