Dr. Neha Kothari is the National Program Leader for the National Plant Germplasm System, USDA/Agricultural Research Service, based in Beltsville, MD. She holds a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding from Texas A&M University and her M.S. degree from Texas Tech University. Originally from India, Dr. Kothari earned her bachelor’s in Biochemistry and Biotechnology from St. Xavier’s College, Gujarat University. Her scientific background has focused on plant breeding, genomics, and genetic resources. Her earlier research emphasized cotton genetic improvement. Before joining USDA-ARS, Dr. Kothari served as the Director of Quality Research at Cotton Incorporated. Dr. Kothari has held leadership roles with numerous research initiatives and scientific organizations. She is serving a four-year term with the National Association for Plant Breeding executive committee.

Dr. Neha Kothari is the National Program Leader for the National Plant Germplasm System, USDA/Agricultural Research Service, based in Beltsville, MD. She holds a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding from Texas A&M University and her M.S. degree from Texas Tech University. Originally from India, Dr. Kothari earned her bachelor’s in Biochemistry and Biotechnology from St. Xavier’s College, Gujarat University. Her scientific background has focused on plant breeding, genomics, and genetic resources.  Her earlier research emphasized cotton genetic improvement. Before joining USDA-ARS, Dr. Kothari served as the Director of Quality Research at Cotton Incorporated. Dr. Kothari has held leadership roles with numerous research initiatives and scientific organizations. She is serving a four-year term with the National Association for Plant Breeding executive committee.