About BTI
The power of plant science
The Boyce Thompson Institute is one of the world’s most respected independent research institutions in plant and molecular science, located on the Cornell University campus.
A future where plant science-based solutions achieve sustainable agriculture, preserve biodiversity, and enhance human health in the face of a changing world. We aim to attain this future through groundbreaking discoveries, transformative education, and seamless integration of our research into society for tangible benefits.
To advance, communicate, and leverage pioneering discoveries in plant sciences to develop sustainable and resilient agriculture, improve food security, protect the environment, and enhance human health.
Curiosity - Rigorous in our inquiry, open-minded in our problem solving.
Innovation - Our journey and our destination.
Independence - We are bold thinkers. Responsive to the world around us, we stand by our work and do what’s right.
Insight - Seeking sustainable solutions with the power to transform, we’re driving discoveries that nourish both people and planet.
Community - Shared effort is ingrained in how we work, strengthened by numerous perspectives, and fostered through mentorship.
Responsibility - Relationships and results, built honestly and enriched through trust, hold us accountable for our impacts.
From our local community to our international collaborations, BTI is making an impact.
Jobs supported
Employees from 40 countries
Economic impact
Principal Investigators
Publications
Citations
The Boyce Thompson Institute was established in 1924 by philanthropist William Boyce Thompson. Thompson was inspired to found BTI during his visit to Russia with the American Red Cross in 1918, where he witnessed the devastating effects of crop failure and famine. His primary objective was to explore plant biology to enhance global food security and environmental protection.
*Top Image credit: Simon Wheeler Photography