On this week's show we'll be discussing Thomas Molnar's optimistic work at Rutgers University on hazelnut. Hazelnut has been devastated by Eastern Filbert Blight, making it difficult to grow in the eastern US. Tom is seeking to bring hazelnut back east as an opportunity for backyarders, hobbyists, and orchards.

Thomas Molnar received his PhD from Rutgers University in 2006. He is currently an Associate Professor in the Plant Biology Department of the Rutgers University School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA). His research program concentrates on the genetic improvement and study of hazelnuts (Corylus) and large-bracted dogwoods (Cornus). Part of this work includes germplasm exploration, collection, and evaluation. A major aspect of his current research is developing and characterizing genetic resistance to eastern filbert blight, a fungal disease which is the primary limiting factor of hazelnut production in the eastern North America. Breeding objectives in both woody ornamentals and hazelnuts emphasize selection for high levels of disease and pest resistance and cold hardiness.