Somnath Koley is a Research Assistant Professor with the University of Tennessee–Oak Ridge Innovation Institute’s Circular Bioeconomy Convergent Research Initiative. Raised in a farming family, his early connection to agriculture continues to fuel his passion for advancing plant science. Before joining UT-ORII, he was a Research Scientist at Donald Danforth Plant Science Center.

Koley specializes in metabolomics, isotope labeling, and metabolic flux analysis to guide the rational engineering of crops for improved yield and composition. He is open to future collaborations that align with his research interests. His research and collaborations across the country and abroad have advanced understanding of primary and secondary metabolism in plants and other photosynthetic organisms. Recent findings from his work show that photosynthesis in the pod walls of oilseeds, rather than the leaves, can contribute nearly half of the carbon used for seed metabolism, and that early fatty acid turnover in oil producing tissues limits total oil accumulation.

The Koley lab aims to build a new framework for developing high oil crops that support sustainable, plant-based alternatives to fossil fuels. He is a dedicated mentor who prioritizes a welcoming environment where trainees feel valued and confident sharing ideas. His lab welcomes students and postdocs.

Education