His academic training is in the area of plant pathology, with a specialty in the epidemiology of viruses infecting yellow summer squash. Afterwards, he started his career with Monsanto Company, working in field product development, followed by transition to research involving the development of transgenic (genetically modified) plants; then by serving as the Team Lead for Cotton Improvement in Trait Development to his current role in Regulatory Sciences. Dr. Sammons' current area of research is focused ecological risk assessment and characterization of genetically enhanced crops. Highlights of his scientific accomplishments include: the first report of Tobacco Ringspot Virus in squash in South Carolina and the first report of seed transmission of this virus in smooth pigweed (a common weed species found in many areas of the U.S.); development of transgenic potatoes resistant to Potato Leafroll Virus; Potato Virus X; and Potato Virus Y; development of transgenic tomatoes with extended shelf-life; and development of tomatoes with genes that confer resistance to Tobacco Mosaic Virus, Tomato Mosaic Virus and Cucumber Mosaic Virus. He led a team that delivered new and improved Roundup Ready Cotton to market. Dr. Sammons’ effort is presently focused on gaining approval of 2^nd generation improvements in corn that will provide benefits to U.S. agriculture and third world countries.