Position Title
In Memoriam
Professor of Agronomy Emeritus
1929-2020
RAY CARLSON HUFFAKER
Birth: December 6, 1929, Murray, Salt Lake, Utah
Death: April 15, 2020, in South Jordan, Salt Lake, Utah
Education
- B.S., Brigham Young University
- Graduate Studies, University of California, Los Angeles
Employment
- Professor of Agronomy and Range Science, University of California, Davis, 1960–1994
- Director, Plant Growth Laboratory, UC Davis, 1981–1994
- Emeritus Professor, UC Davis, 1994–2020
Honors, Awards, and Professional Societies
- Member, Society of Agronomy
- Member, Society of Sigma Xi
- Member, American Society of Plant Physiologists
- Member, Scandinavian Society of Plant Physiologists
- Member, Crop Science Society
- Member, American Society of Biological Chemists
Research Contributions and Impact
Huffaker’s research focused on plant biochemistry and physiology, particularly the kinetics of “fraction 1 protein” (ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase), the most abundant protein on Earth and essential to photosynthetic CO₂ fixation. He investigated the synthesis and degradation of this compound, particularly during leaf senescence.
His research also expanded to nitrogen uptake and metabolism, where he developed advanced analytical methods to measure nitrate, nitrite, and ammonia in plants. These methods helped elucidate the uptake kinetics, cellular distribution, and metabolic pathways in leaves and roots, thereby shaping the scientific understanding of plant nutrient physiology. Throughout his career, Huffaker published over 100 papers and reviews that advanced the fields of plant biology and agronomy.
Teaching and Mentorship
Huffaker was a highly respected teacher and mentor. He taught undergraduate biochemistry laboratories and stepped in to teach agronomy courses when needed. At the graduate level, he emphasized deep conceptual understanding through oral examinations and taught students how to plan and execute impactful research programs. Many of his students went on to successful careers in academia and research.
He was known for his personal investment in his students’ well-being, often supporting them through personal challenges and fostering a collaborative, family-like research environment.
Collaboration and Community
Huffaker’s leadership extended beyond the classroom and lab. He served on departmental and campuswide committees, including the Committee on Academic Personnel and the Vice Chancellor Search Committee. As director of the Plant Growth Laboratory, he promoted interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating basic plant science with applied research.
Legacy
Huffaker’s pioneering research in plant physiology and nitrogen metabolism continues to influence the plant sciences. His commitment to teaching, mentorship, and collaborative leadership shaped the field and the generations of scientists who followed.
References
For additional tributes, interviews, and biographies, see the following resources: