Jon Turkus

Jon Turkus

Lab Manager

Jonathan Turkus is a High-Throughput Molecular Biology Technician and the Research Manager for the Schnable Lab at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL). He holds a B.S. in Biology from Hope College and an M.S. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Biotechnology from the Michigan State University, where he work on wheat breeding and genetics. At the Schnable Lab, Jonathan plays a key role in high-throughput phenotyping efforts, including a nationwide gene-function initiative funded by ARPA-E. In 2024, he developed a sampling protocol that enabled the collection of 2,400 tissue samples in under two hours using a custom spill-proof tray system. He also manages multi-location field experiments and uses tools like Trello and Microsoft To-Do to streamline logistics. His work advances efficient data collection and supports cutting-edge research in crop genetics.

In the News

  • JonTurkus Wins the 2025 Outstanding Employee Award
    Our exceptional lab manager Jonathan Turkus named the 2025 Outstanding Employee. Jon’s determination and creativity have made just a big impact not only on our lab, but on groups across the country over the past five years. Congratulations, Jon!
  • ARPA-E Summit representation
    Jon Turkus and Chidu Ullagaddi highlighted the lab’s ARPA-E project at the 2025 ARPA-E Summit in Washington, DC.

Recent Publications