Irene Karpus standing in apple orchard holding clipboard

Irene Karpus

Agricultural Research Specialist and Apple Breeding Advocate

Master of Science in Horticulture from Ohio State University • Research Coordinator at MAIA Solutions • 12 years in Pomology and Horticultural Science

Growing up in Ohio's apple country, Irene developed a passion for pomology early in life. After completing her degree in horticulture, she spent over a decade working with growers and researchers to improve apple varieties for challenging Midwest conditions.

What I Write About

My Approach

Making the Best, Better isn't just a motto—it's a commitment to continuous improvement through collaboration.

I believe successful apple breeding requires equal parts scientific rigor and practical grower knowledge. The best varieties emerge when researchers listen closely to the people who will actually grow them.

Featured Writing

Decision Making Under Uncertainty in Apple Variety Development Apple Breeding

Decision Making Under Uncertainty in Apple Variety Development

Apple breeders face uncertainty at every stage of variety development from initial crosses to final commercial release. Understanding how to manage risk and make decisions with incomplete information is essential for successful breeding programs.

9 min read
Apples Symbolism in Casino Games and Slot Themes Culture

Apples Symbolism in Casino Games and Slot Themes

From harvest abundance to lucky symbols, apples have maintained a prominent place in casino slot machine design for over a century. Explore the cultural connections between agriculture and gaming.

10 min read

Currently Working On

Coordinating multi-site variety trials across the Midwest and developing improved evaluation protocols for disease resistance screening.