Dr. Bradford's research interests span diverse areas of seed science from seed germination and conservation to mathematical modeling and molecular biology. He has published more than 170 peer-reviewed research and extension articles and book chapters, co-edited three books and co-authored a textbook on seed development, germination, dormancy and storage.

His current interests are in the genetic and molecular mechanisms regulating seed dormancy and germination, in mathematical models to describe seed germination and dormancy behavior, and in seed and food drying and preservation methods, particularly for humid climates.

As Director of the Seed Biotechnology Center, he supports the creation and commercialization of new technologies to improve crop performance, quality and sustainability and the continuing education of plant breeders and seed industry professionals. As Interim Director of the UC Davis World Food Center, he seeks to promote innovation for productivity, sustainability, and equity of food systems locally and globally. He teaches university and extension courses on plant physiology, seed biology, biotechnology, ethics and philosophy of science.