Franceschi Microscopy and Imaging Center is named in
memory of the late Vincent R. Franceschi (1953-2005) in
recognition of his internationally renown research in
plant biology and expertise in microscopy and his service
to Washington State University as teacher, researcher and
mentor, 1982-2005.
He was internationally recognized for his research in
plant cell biology through his knowledge of plant anatomy
and plant structure-function (in which he was
acknowledged to be a foremost authority), and his high
level of expertise in microscopy and microtechniques. His
wonderful micrographs graced a number of prominent
scientific journals, including the cover of Science
magazine.
The Microscopy Center at WSU gained international
recognition through Vince's leadership and his own
research in several areas: calcium metabolism,
photosynthesis and assimilate partitioning, and plant
defense. His prominence in these areas is reflected in
three major reviews, written during his last two years:
Annual Review of Plant Biology 2004, "Single-Cell C4
Photosynthesis Versus the Dual-Cell (Kranz) Paradigm" and
2005, "Calcium Oxalate in Plants: Formation and
Function," and a New Phytologist Tansley Review 2005,
"Anatomical and Chemical Defenses of Conifer Bark Against
Bark Beetles and Other Pests."
In addition to his own research program, Vince had an
extraordinary record of collaborative research, which
included scientists from across the U.S. and world wide,
including Argentina, Australia, Chile, Germany, Iran,
India, Israel, Korea, Norway and Russia.
.jpg)