Dr. Mike Thornton is a professor of plant science working on potatoes for the University of Idaho at the Parma Research and Extension Center. His research program focuses on sustainable production of new varieties, management of in-season pest problems, and reduction of losses during storage. He has worked closely with key influencers in the potato industry (growers, commodity commissions, and processors) to document and address the most important issues they face. Mike has over 35 years’ experience in the potato industry in North America, and has worked both in academia and industry. This allows him to see problems from several perspectives, and develop effective research and extension programs.