California Walnut Board taps new research lead to steer quality, production priorities

The California Walnut Board (CWB) has appointed Dr. Saarah Kuzay as director of research and technical affairs, a role that will oversee production and postharvest research programs critical to United States walnut quality, yield, and regulatory compliance.

Dr. Kuzay will guide research priorities across the California walnut sector, including efforts to reduce rancidity, improve kernel color and meat yield, and enhance flavor—key factors influencing buyer specifications and consumer acceptance. She will also evaluate investments in genetics, plant breeding, farm management, and storage, and assess quality impacts throughout the distribution chain.

Cracking the code on quality and compliance

Working with the board’s research committee and industry stakeholders, Kuzay will continue ongoing work to address nematode control and identify cost-effective alternatives to fungicides and pesticides facing tighter US and global regulations. She will also lead initiatives to identify higher-value upcycling opportunities and oversee the Retail Quality Improvement Program, which analyzes in-store walnut quality data nationwide to inform process improvements.

Dr. Kuzay earned a Ph.D. in horticulture and agronomy with a focus on genetics and biotechnology from the University of California, Davis in 2021. Her research included wheat and pepper breeding programs aimed at increasing yields. Since then, she has worked in applied field research, grower trials, and research design for field crops, fertilizers, and animal feeds, as well as in grant development, data science, and export-oriented product development.

“Dr. Kuzay’s technical expertise, strong experience in evaluating and executing applied research, and proven ability to translate science into practical grower and product solutions make her an exceptional fit for this role,” said Robert Verloop, executive director and CEO of the California Walnut Board and Commission. “Her experience in working with diverse, cross-functional teams of experts will provide strong leadership as we look to make California walnuts coveted around the globe.”

Kuzay will work alongside the current Director of Research, Joe Grant, through August to ensure continuity ahead of his retirement. Grant, who joined the board in 2016, led the production research program and expanded collaboration with scientists while strengthening access to research-based tools for growers and processors.

“We applaud Joe’s extensive contribution and dedication to walnut research,” Donald Norene, past chairman of the board’s Production and Post Harvest Research committee, said. “He is attentive to the concerns of growers and handlers, and aligned research priorities on projects to deliver solutions that support industry challenges.”

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