Dr. Hector Pérez
Professor / Seed Biology, Plant Conservation and Restoration, Graduate Studies Coordinator
Dr. Pérez’s research program takes an interdisciplinary approach blending seed biology with plant restoration and endangered species conservation. Dr. Pérez collaborates with conservation and restoration practitioners, land managers and native plant producers throughout the region in an effort to improve conservation and restoration outcomes. Dr. Pérez also works closely with the Florida wildflower seed industry to enhance wildflower seed biology knowledge thereby enhancing opportunities for this expanding agricultural sector.
Plant Restoration and Conservation
Visit Seed Biology Lab
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RESEARCH
Seed Biology
Seeds are perhaps the most important means of plant reproduction. Therefore, seeds represent an essential component of plant conservation and restoration activities. At the same time, wildflower seed producers are seeking to bolster production due to increasing demand. However, a significant challenge to meeting conservation and restoration goals and the needs of seed producers is the fact that very little is known regarding the seed biology of wild plant species. In this regard, Dr. Pérez’s research efforts focus on translating fundamental knowledge related to how seeds: 1) remain viable in the soil or in germplasm storage for extended periods given stressful environmental conditions; 2) interact with changing environmental conditions to alleviate dormancy and promote germination; and 3) respond to applied germination enhancement technologies.
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TEACHING
Dr. Pérez aims to guide students to an understanding of concepts and proficiency in applications through active and inquiry-based lessons. Lessons developed for any course are student-focused rather than teacher-centered. In this regard, students are not passively receiving information, but are required to openly practice their thinking.
Courses
- ALS 5934 Graduate Professional Development
- HOS 6931 Horticultural Science Seminar
- HOS 6991 Evolution, Eco-Physiology, and Global Importance of Seeds
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EDUCATION
- Ph.D. Horticulture: Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology Specialization University of Hawaii, 2006
- M.S. Environmental Horticulture University of Florida, 2001
- B.S. Environmental Horticulture University of Florida, 1997
- B.S.Entrepreneurship Florida Atlantic University, 1994
- PUBLICATIONS
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RECENT SERVICES AND HONORS
- W-3168: Environmental and Genetic Determinants of Seed Quality and Performance, USDA Multi-State Project, Project Proposal Revision Chair, 2012-14
- North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Teacher Fellow, 2012
- W-2168: Environmental and Genetic Determinants of Seed Quality and Performance, USDA Multi-State Project, President, 2011-12
- W-2168: Environmental and Genetic Determinants of Seed Quality and Performance, USDA Multi-State Project, Vice-President, 2010-11
- W-2168: Environmental and Genetic Determinants of Seed Quality and Performance, USDA Multi-State Project, Secretary, 2010-11