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UKnowledge > Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment > Plant and Soil Sciences > Theses & Dissertations

Theses and Dissertations--Plant and Soil Sciences

Theses/dissertations from 2024 2024.

FROM CODE TO CROPS: HARNESSING BIOINFORMATICS AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) IN AGRICULTURAL OMICS , Lakshay Anand

IDENTIFYING PHYSIOLOGICAL, MORPHOLOGICAL, AND GENETIC DRIVERS OF KEY INTERMEDIARY PHENOTYPIC TRAITS ASSOCIATED WITH STALK LODGING RESISTANCE WITHIN GENETICALLY DIVERSE MAIZE GERMPLASM AND SORGHUM , Norbert Bokros

INTERACTIONS BETWEEN MULTIPLE STRESSORS, NANOMATERIALS AND A PATHOGEN, IN CAENORHABDITIS ELEGANS , Jarad Cochran

SURVEYS, FIELD STUDIES, AND LABORATORY INCUBATION EXPERIMENTS TO IMPROVE ALFALFA PRODUCTION IN THE MID-SOUTH , William Fleming

EVALUATION OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ITALIAN RYEGRASS (LOLIUM PERENNE SSP. MULTIFLORUM) USING HARVEST WEED SEED CONTROL AT WINTER WHEAT HARVEST IN KENTUCKY , Hayden Love

EVALUATION OF WINTER CEREAL COVER CROPS ACROSS NITROGEN MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES IN NO-TILL CORN PRODUCTION , Robert Nalley

THE EFFECTS OF POTASSIUM FERTILIZATION REGIME ON HIGH TUNNEL TOMATO PRODUCTION , Sapana Pandey

SILICON FERTILIZATION IN COOL-SEASON TURFGRASSES , Cheng Qian

The roles of mRNA polyadenylation factors in plant growth and development , Lichun Zhou

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

Understanding The Basis for Increased 2,4-D Tolerance in Red Clover (Trifolium pratense): Field Evaluations, Metabolism, and Gene Expression , Lucas Pinheiro de Araujo

MANAGEMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ROOT-KNOT NEMATODE ( MELOIDOGYNE SPP.) IN KENTUCKY HIGH TUNNELS , Victoria Bajek

Nitrogen Behavior in a No-Tillage Agroecosystem Located in the Inner Bluegrass of Kentucky , Alec William Besinger Mr.

Building a Kentucky Baguette: Agronomic Traits, Bread Baking Quality Measurements, and Sensory Evaluation of Modern and Landrace Wheat Cultivars Grown Under Conventional and Organic Nitrogen Management , Bryan Brady

Improving Baking Quality of Soft Red Winter Wheat in Kentucky Through Breeding and Sulfur-Nitrogen Fertility Management , Maria Paula Castellari

Comparison of Botanical Composition Methods and Change Over Time in Kentucky Pastures , Echo Elizabeth Gotsick

EFFECTS OF FUNGICIDE PROGRAMS AND LOWER LEAF REMOVAL ON WRAPPER LEAF PRODUCTION IN CONNECTICUT BROADLEAF CIGAR WRAPPER TOBACCO , Caleb Haygan Perkins

MULTI-OMIC ANALYSIS OF VEGETATIVE PROPAGATION INDUCED PLANT REJUVENATION IN GRAPEVINES: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE GENERATION OF LOCALLY ADAPTED CULTIVARS USING EPIGENETICS , Tajbir Raihan

LATERAL SPACING OF SUBSURFACE POULTRY LITTER BANDS: EFFECT ON GASEOUS NITROGEN EMISSIONS, NUTRIENT UPTAKE, AND MAIZE YIELD , Jason R. Simmons

Winter Rye ( Secale cereale L.) Management and Production Profitability in Kentucky, and Heritability of Sensory Attributes , Elzbieta Szuleta

MOLECULAR ANALYSIS OF EPIGENETIC MEMORY OF STRESS ESTABLISHMENT AND LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE IN A PERENNIAL WOODY PLANT , Jia Wen Tan

EVALUATION OF CHEMICAL CONTROL OPTIONS, ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS, AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ASSOCIATED WITH ANGULAR LEAF SPOT ( PSEUDOMONAS SYRINGAE PV. TABACI ) , Andrea Brooke Webb

Species-specific microsymbiont discrimination mediated by a Medicago receptor kinase , Xiaocheng Yu

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Understanding the cellular and physiological mechanisms of fertilization and early-stage seed development , Mohammad Foteh Ali

OPTIMIZING NITROGEN MANAGEMENT IN WINTER WHEAT PRODUCTION SYSTEMS FOR IMPROVED BREAD BAKING QUALITY , Ammar Sadiq Mahdi Al Zubade

Remote Sensing for Quantifying C3 and C4 Grass Ratios in Pastures , Jordyn Alyssa Bush

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M.S. and Ph.D. Theses

Winters, Noah P. Evolutionary and functional genetics of disease resistance in theobroma cacao and its wild relatives.   A Dissertation in Ecology Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy May 2022

Abstract: Plants have complex and dynamic immune systems that have evolved over millennia to help them resist pathogen invasion. Humans have worked to incorporate these evolved defenses into crops through breeding. However, many crop cultivars only harness a fraction of the overall genetic diversity available to a given species, or have such a long history of domestication that most diversity has been lost. Evaluating previously neglected germplasm for desirable traits, such as disease resistance, is therefore an essential step towards breeding crops that are adapted to both current and emerging threats. In this dissertation, we examine the evolution of defense response across populations of Theobroma cacao L. and wild species of Theobroma, with the goal of identifying genetic elements essential for protection against the cacao pathogen Phytophthora palmivora. < pdf >

Fister, A. S. (2016). Genomics of the theobroma cacao L. defense response (Order No. 10300628). Available From ProQuest Dissertations & Theses A&I. (1848683680). Retrieved from http://ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/docview/1848683680?accountid=13158

Abstract : Theobroma cacao, the source of cocoa and a cash crop of global economic importance, suffers significant annual losses due to several pathogens. While study of the molecular mechanisms of defense in cacao has been limited, the recent sequencing of two cacao genomes has greatly expedited the ability to study genes and gene families with roles in defense. Here, the pathogenesis-related (PR) gene families were bioinformatically identified, and family size and gene organization were compared to other plant species, revealing significant conservation throughout higher monocots and dicots. Expression of the PR families was also analyzed using a whole genome microarray to measure transcriptomic regulation in leaves after treatment of cacao seedlings with two pathogens, identifying the induced PR genes within each family. We found significant overlap between the PR genes induced by the pathogens, and subsequent qRTPCR revealed up to 5000-fold induction of specific PR family members. Next, the regulation of the defense response in cacao by salicylic acid, a major defense hormone, was analyzed. The study focused on two genotypes, the broadly resistant Scavina 6 and the widely susceptible ICS1. First, treatment of leaves of two cacao genotypes with salicylic acid was shown to enhance resistance of both. Moreover, overexpression of TcNPR1, a master regulator of systemic acquired resistance, is also shown to enhance the defense response, supporting the importance of salicylic acid and its downstream targets in cacao immunity. Microarray analysis of the transcriptomic response to salicylic acid revealed genotype-specific responses to hormone treatment. ICS1 appeared to show a more canonical response to salicylic acid, with more PR genes induced, while Scavina 6 exhibited increased expression of chloroplastic and mitochondrial genes. It was hypothesized that this induction was linked to increased ROS production, and subsequent ROS staining experiments confirmed higher concentration of superoxide in salicylic acid-treated Scavina 6 leaf tissue. Third, a pilot study was performed to quantify genetic variability within defense genes. Using DNA samples representing three populations of cacao - Peruvian, Ecuadorian, and French Guianan - we amplified three genes involved in defense, two predicted to be more variable (cysteine-rich repeat secretory peptide 38 and a polygalacturonase inhibitor) and one predicted to harbor less polymorphism (pathogenesis-related 1). Population genetic analysis of variability suggested that the gene predicted to be more variable may be under diversifying selection, suggesting that they may directly interact with rapidly evolving pathogen proteins. The experiment validated previously described observations about the populations, in particular that the French Guianan population was less variable than the others. The study also supported the predictions regarding gene variability, indicating that our strategy for identifying genes with more variation appears to be applicable but will require further validation. The Guiltinan-Maximova lab developed a protocol for transient transformation of cacao leaf tissue, which has been applied to characterizing gene function in several published analyses. Here the highly efficient protocol is presented in full, along with data collected in a series of optimization experiments. We also use the protocol to demonstrate the effect of overexpression of a cacao chitinase after subsequent infection with Phytophthora mycelia. A preliminary study describing a strategy for selection of high-priority candidate genes for functional characterization is described. Six genes were cloned and overexpressed using the transient transformation protocol; and while the study showed the ability of our protocol to significantly increase transcript abundance of the gene of interest, it did not validate the role of any of the genes in defense by showing decreased susceptibility. This dissertation contributes to the study of genomics and molecular mechanisms of defense in four key ways: 1) 15 classes of defense genes are identified and their expression dynamics are characterized, 2) genotype-specific differences in defense response are identified, providing insight into different strategies for survival, 3) variability within defense genes is discovered, differentiating populations of cacao and providing evidence for diversifying selection, and 4) a rapid and efficient strategy for gene functional analysis, which will enhance future genetic analyses in cacao, is presented.

Zhang, Y. (2014). Functional genomics of theobroma cacao fatty acid biosynthesis: Convergence of fatty acid desaturation, embryo development, and defense signaling responses (Order No. 3690183). Available From ProQuest Dissertations & Theses A&I. (1658228179). Retrieved from http://ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/docview/1658228179?accountid=13158

Abstract : Theobroma cacao L. (chocolate tree) is an important cash crop for 40-50 million farmers and their families in its tropical growing regions worldwide. Cocoa butter and cocoa powder extracted from cacao seeds provide the main raw ingredients for chocolate manufacturing, supporting a $80 billion global business. A unique fatty acid composition of cocoa butter makes its melting temperature close to the human body temperature, which is not only of particular importance for industrial uses, but also a valuable quality trait targeted by breeding programs. My Ph.D. dissertation focused mainly on the fatty acid biosynthesis pathway in cacao seeds. I identified a key desaturase gene TcSAD1 from a large stearoyl-acyl carrier protein-desaturase gene family in cacao that plays a crucial role in converting stearic acid (18:0, saturated fatty acid) into oleic acid (18:1, unsaturated fatty acid). The expression of TcSAD1 was highly correlated with the change of fatty acid composition during cacao seed development. The activity of TcSAD1 rescued all the Arabidopsis ssi2 (a fatty acid desaturase) related mutant phenotypes, further supporting its in vivo functions. The discovery of the critical function of TcSAD1 offers a new strategy for screening for novel genotypes with desirable fatty acid compositions, and for use in breeding programs, to help pyramid genes for quality traits such as cocoa butter content. Moreover, because of the significance of fatty acid biosynthesis and lipid accumulation during cacao seed development, to further explore the regulatory mechanism, I functionally characterized of a master regulator, TcLEC2 gene, which controls both zygotic and somatic embryo development of cacao. Transient overexpression of TcLEC2 induced the expression of a variety of seed specific genes in cacao leaves. Furthermore, functions of TcLEC2 were explored during somatic embryogenesis, which is an in vitro propagation system for cacao. My results suggested that the activity of TcLEC2 determines the embryogenic capacity of the cacao tissue explants and correlated with embryogenic capacity of cultured cells. Transgenic embryos overexpressing TcLEC2 produced a significantly higher number of embryos compared to non-transgenic embryos; however, most of these transgenic somatic embryos exhibited abnormal phenotypes, and the development normally ceased at globular stage. This discovery may have future applications in increasing the efficiency of cacao mass propagation programs. Notably, in addition to major storage compounds in cacao seeds, fatty acids also function as signals involved in defense responses. I found that the endogenous level of 18:1 was modulated by exogenous glycerol application. Glycerol application on cacao leaves increased the level of glycerol-3-phosphate and lowered the level of 18:1 through an acylation reaction, which further triggered the defense responses. 100mM glycerol was sufficient to induce the accumulation of ROS, activate the expression of a variety of pathogen-related genes, and confer enhanced resistance against fungal pathogen Phytophthora capsici. My results demonstrated the potential of foliar glycerol application to become an environmentally safe means to induce the plant defense responses and fight important plant diseases in the field. Together, my Ph.D. dissertation makes major contributions to three important research areas in cacao: (1) identification of the key gene regulating fatty acid composition in cocoa butter, (2) improvement of large-scale propagation system (somatic embryogenesis) of cacao, (3) enhancement of cacao foliar disease resistance. This thesis not only provides useful knowledge of the regulatory mechanisms of important quality traits at the molecular and genetic levels, but also demonstrates the potential of taking advantage of cacao genomic resources to accelerate cacao basic research and breeding programs. <pdf>

Shi, Z. (2010). Functional analysis of non expressor of PR1 (NPR1) and its paralog NPR3 in theobroma cacao and arabidopsis thaliana (Order No. 3442953). Available From ProQuest Dissertations & Theses A&I. (853752677). Retrieved from http://ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/docview/853752677?accountid=13158 Arabidopsis NON EXPRESSOR OF PR1 (NPR1) is a key transcription regulator of the salicylic acid (SA) mediated defense signaling pathway. The NPR gene family consists of NPR1 and five other NPR1-like genes in Arabidopsis. This research focuses on the functional analysis of an NPR1 ortholog from Theobroma cacao L. and characterization of one of the NPR1 paralogs, NPR3, in both Arabidopsis and cacao. To identify the function of NPR3 in Arabidopsis, I first examined the gene expression pattern of NPR3 and found it to be strongly expressed in developing flower tissues. Interestingly, an npr3 knockout mutant displayed enhanced resistance to Pseudomonas syringae tomato pv. DC3000 (P.s.t.) infection of immature flowers. Gene expression analysis also revealed increased basal and induced levels of PRI transcripts in npr3 developing flowers. To investigate the possible mechanism of NPR3-dependent negative regulation of defense response, I tested the physical interactions of NPR3 with both TGA2 and NPR1 in vivo, which suggests that NPR3 represses NPR1-dependent transcription by inhibiting the nuclear localization of NPR1 through direct binding to TGA2 and NPR1. To characterize the NPR1 ortholog from cacao, I isolated TcNPR1 gene from genotype of Scavina6, and demonstrated that it expresses constitutively in all the tested tissues. To functionally analyze this gene, a bacterial growth assay was carried out with npr1-2 transgenic lines overexpressing TcNPR1, and a reduced level of bacterial growth demonstrated that TcNPR1 can partially complement Arabidopsis the npr1-2 mutation. In addition, TcNPR1 was shown to translocate into nuclei upon SA treatment in a manner identical to Arabidopsis native NPR1. To further explore the NPR gene family in cacao, I identified a total of four NPR-like genes from the cacao genome, and phylogenetic analysis indicated that the duplications of three clades in this gene family occurred before the divergence of Arabidopsis and cacao. To identify the functional ortholog of Arabidopsis NPR3, I isolated a putative TcNPR3 gene and demonstrated that its expression level was higher in un-open flowers and older leaves, a pattern similar to Arabidopsis NPR3. A complementation test of TcNPR3 expressed in the Arabidopsis npr3-3 null mutant showed that TcNPR3 can functionally substitute for the Arabidopsis NPR3 gene, demonstrating that TcNPR3 is the functional ortholog of AtNPR3. To obtain the genome-wide transcriptional responses of SA treatment in cacao, I used microarray analysis to measure gene expression in two cacao genotypes (ICS1 and Scavina6), three leaf developmental stages (A, C and E) and two treatments (water and SA). After validating the microarray results with RT-PCR, I identified differentially expressed genes from all twenty-four pair-wise comparisons. Interestingly, chloroplast and mitochondrial genes are enriched in SA-induced Scavina6 but those genes are underrepresented in ICS1, suggesting that the oxidative burst and hypersensitive response during defense response may vary between the two genotypes. In all, this research will not only offer us the knowledge of defense response mechanism and signal transduction regulation in Arabidopsis and cacao, but also provide molecular tools for selecting cultivars with enhanced disease resistance for cacao breeders and farmers. <pdf>

Liu, Y. (2010). Molecular analysis of genes involved in the synthesis of proanthocyanidins in theobroma cacao (Order No. 3420238). Available From ProQuest Dissertations & Theses A&I. (750368282). Retrieved from http://ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/docview/750368282?accountid=13158 The flavonoids catechin and epicatechin, and their polymerized oligomers, the proanthocyanidins (PAs, also called condensed tannins), accumulate to levels of up to 15% of the total weight of dry seeds of Theobroma cacao L. These compounds have been associated with several health benefits in humans including antioxidant activity, improvement of cardiovascular health and reduction of cholesterol levels. They also play important roles in pest and disease defense throughout the plant. This research focuses on molecularly dissecting the proanthocyanidin biosynthetic pathway of Theobroma cacao. To this end, I first isolated candidate genes from T.cacao (Tc) encoding key structural enzymes of this pathway which include, anthocyanidin reductase (ANR), leucoanthocyanidin dioxygenase (LDOX, also called anthocyanidin synthase, ANS) and leucoanthocyanidin reductase (LAR). I performed gene expression profiling of candidate TcANR, TcANS and TcLAR in various tissues through different developmental stages and also evaluated PA accumulation levels in those tissues. My results suggested that all PA candidate genes are co-regulated and positively correlated with PA synthesis. To functionally analyze the candidate genes, I used the model plants Arabidopsis and tobacco as expression platforms. Results from Arabidopsis mutant complementation tests and transgenic tobacco plants constitutively overexpressing cacao genes demonstrate that the candidate structural genes isolated from cacao are true ANS, ANR and LAR genes and all actively involved in PA synthesis in cacao. To further explore the transcriptional regulation of the PA synthesis pathway, I then isolated and characterized an R2R3 type MYB transcription factor TcMYBPA from cacao. I examined the spatial and temporal gene expression patterns of TcMYBPA in cacao and found it to be developmentally expressed in a manner consistent with its involvement in PAs as well as anthocyanin synthesis. Complementation test of TcMYBPA in Arabidopsis tt2 mutant suggested that TcMYBPA could functionally substitute Arabidopsis TT2 gene. Interestingly, except PA accumulation in seeds, I also observed an obvious increase of anthocyanidin accumulation in hypocotyls of transgenic Arabidopsis plants. This is consistent with gene expression analysis which showed that the entire PA pathway could be induced by overexpression of TcMYBPA gene, including DFR, LDOX (ANS) and BAN (ANR). Therefore I concluded that the isolated TcMYBPA gene encodes an R2R3 type MYB transcription factor and is involved in the regulation of both anthocyanin and PA synthesis in cacao. This research will not only offer us the knowledge of secondary metabolites production in cacao, but also provides molecular tools for breeding of cacao varieties with improved disease resistance and enhanced flavonoid profiles for nutritional and pharmaceutical applications. <pdf>

Miller, C. (2009). An integrated in vitro and greenhouse orthotropic clonal propagation system for Theobroma cacao L (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 158. <pdf>

Xia, H. (2009). Structure and function of endosperm starch from maize mutants deficient in one or more starch-branching enzyme isoform activities (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 261. <pdf>

Marelli, J. (2008). Solanum lycopersicum as a model system to study pathogenicity mechanisms of Moniliophthora perniciosa, the causal agent of witches' broom disease of Theobroma cacao (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 178. <pdf>

Swanson, J.-D . (2005). Flower development in Theobroma cacao L.: An assessment of morphological and molecular conservation of floral development between Arabidopsis thaliana and Theobroma cacao (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 201. <pdf>

Antunez de Mayolo, G. (2003). Genetic engineering of Theobroma cacao and molecular studies on cacao defense responses (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 148. <pdf>

Cakirer, M.S. (2003). Color as an indicator of flavanol content in the fresh seeds of Theobroma cacao L. (The Pennsylvania State University). <pdf>

Tomscha, J.L. (2001). Phosphatase secretion mutants in Arabidopsis thaliana (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 103. <pdf>

Traore, A. (2000). Somatic embryogenesis, embryo conversion, micropropagation and factors affecting genetic transformation of Theobroma cacao L (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 135. <pdf>

Kim, K.-N. (1997). Molecular analysis of starch branching enzyme genes in maize (Zea mays L.) (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 137. <pdf>

Maximova, S.N. (1997). Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation of apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 106. <pdf>

Gao, M. (1996). Molecular characterization of starch branching enzyme genes, Sbe1, Sbe2b and Sbe2a in maize (Zea mays L.) (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 108. <pdf>

Fisher, D.K. (1995). Molecular genetic analysis of multiple isoforms of starch branching enzyme with emphasis on Zea mays L (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 185.

Niu, X. (1995). DNA binding specificity and interactions with nucleosomal DNA of the plantbZIP protein EmBP-1 (United States -- Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State University), pp. 132.

Guiltinan, M.J. (1986). THE ISOLATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND INTERGENERIC TRANSFER OF TWO SOYBEAN (GLYCINE MAX L.) BETA-TUBULIN GENES (TI PLASMID) (United States -- California: University of California, Irvine), pp. 100. <pdf>

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Thesis Research

Plant Science graduate students conduct thesis research in the areas of agronomy, crop nutrition & soils, irrigation, horticulture, weed science, plant pathology, entomology, and mechanized agriculture.

You can review a list of recent thesis titles online .

Experiments may be conducted in the field, greenhouse, laboratory, or a combination thereof. Projects are developed in conjunction with a thesis advisor based on his/her area(s) of research expertise ( view faculty biographies ). In some cases, thesis research projects are developed under the direction of UC Cooperative Extension farm advisors, or with associated scientists at the University of California, Kearney Agricultural Experiment Station  or USDA-ARS laboratory , both located in Parlier, CA, 30-40 minutes from campus.

Upon application, students are encouraged to discuss their initial area of interest with the Graduate Coordinators who will then direct them to the appropriate faculty  or associated scientist. In the first semester, students develop a written thesis proposal which must be approved by the thesis chair and committee members prior to defending their thesis proposal during their second semester.

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Plant sciences articles from across Nature Portfolio

Plant sciences is the study of plants in all their forms and interactions using a scientific approach.

Discovery of a component of the chloroplast-associated protein degradation system

Regulation of chloroplast protein import by chloroplast-associated protein degradation (CHLORAD) is crucial for chloroplast biogenesis and plant development. This study identifies PUX10 as a CHLORAD component that functions as a membrane-bound scaffold to recruit cytosolic Cdc48 to the chloroplast surface and bring it into proximity with CHLORAD substrates.

Largest genomic tree of life of flowering plants to date includes almost 8,000 genera

A tree of life based on genes from across the nuclear genome and containing nearly 60% of all angiosperm genera unveils the complex evolutionary history of flowering plants. This tree both corroborates and challenges existing knowledge on angiosperm relationships and classification, and reveals two diversification surges, underpinned by many contrasting histories in individual plant lineages.

Unlocking alleles from exotic wheat

Genomic and phenotypic screening of the A. E. Watkins landrace wheat collection identifies beneficial novel haplotypes demonstrated to improve modern wheat without negative linkage drag or pleiotropy.

• Seth C. Murray

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Article Contents

Photosynthetic research in plant science.

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Ayumi Tanaka, Amane Makino, Photosynthetic Research in Plant Science, Plant and Cell Physiology , Volume 50, Issue 4, April 2009, Pages 681–683, https://doi.org/10.1093/pcp/pcp040

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Photosynthesis is a highly regulated, multistep process. It encompasses the harvest of solar energy, transfer of excitation energy, energy conversion, electron transfer from water to NADP + , ATP generation and a series of enzymatic reactions that assimilate carbon dioxide and synthesize carbohydrate.

Photosynthesis has a unique place in the history of plant science, as its central concepts were established by the middle of the last century, and the detailed mechanisms have since been elucidated. For example, measurements of photosynthetic efficiency (quantum yield) at different wavelengths of light (Emerson and Lews 1943 ) led to the insight that two distinct forms of Chl must be excited in oxygenic photosynthesis. These results suggested the concept of two photochemical systems. The reaction center pigments of PSII and PSI (P680 and P700, respectively) were found by studying changes in light absorbance in the red region (Kok 1959 , Döring et al. 1969 ). Chls with absorbance maxima corresponding to these specific wavelengths were proposed as the final light sink. These Chls were shown to drive electron transfer by charge separation. The linkage of electron transfer and CO 2 assimilation was suggested by studies on Hill oxidant (Hill 1937 ). A linear electron transport system with two light-driven reactions (Z scheme) was proposed based upon observations of the redox state of cytochromes (Hill and Bendall 1960 , Duysens et al. 1961 ), and photophosphorylation was found to be associated with thylakoid fragments (Arnon et al. 1954 ). The metabolic pathway that assimilates carbon by fixation of CO 2 was discovered by Calvin's group who used 14 CO 2 radioactive tracers in the 1950s (Bassham and Calvin 1957 ). This was the first significant discovery in biochemistry made using radioactive tracers. The primary reaction of CO 2 fixation is catalyzed by Rubisco (Weissbach et al. 1956 ), initially called Fraction 1 protein (Wildman and Bonner 1947 ). Rubisco is the most abundant protein in the world, largely because it is also the most inefficient with the lowest catalytic turnover rate (1–3 s –1 ). Another CO 2 fixation pathway was then found in sugarcane (Kortschak et al. 1964, Hatch and Slack 1965) and named C 4 photosynthesis.

Although photosynthesis plays the central role in the energy metabolism of plants, historically there have not been strong interactions between photosynthesis research and other fields of plant science. Many techniques and tools developed for photosynthesis research have not been widely used in other fields because they were developed to examine phenomena unique to photosynthesis. For example, excitation energy transfer and charge separation are fundamental but unique processes of photosynthesis. Another reason for the historic isolation of photosynthesis research within plant science is that it was long believed that CO 2 fixation and carbohydrate production are the sole function of photosynthesis, with carbohydrates representing the only link between photosynthesis and other biological phenomena.

However, this situation has begun to change. Recent research has revealed that photosynthesis is closely related to a variety of other physiological processes. It is a major system for controlling the redox state of cells, playing an important role in regulating enzyme activity and many other cellular processes (Buchanan and Balmer 2005 , Hisabori et al. 2007 ). Photosynthesis also generates reactive oxygen species, which are now appreciated as being regulatory factors for many biological processes rather than inevitable by-products of photosynthesis (Wagner et al. 2004 , Beck 2005 ). Precursor molecules of Chl, which are a major component of photosynthesis, act as a chloroplast-derived signal, and are involved in regulating the cell cycle (Kobayashi et al. 2009 ). In light of this new information, it seems important to re-evaluate the function(s), both potential and demonstrated, of photosynthesis from a variety of view points. Photosynthesis research now employs the methods and tools of molecular biology and genetics, which are central methods for plant science in general. Meanwhile, Chl fluorescence and gas exchange measurements, developed especially for photosynthesis research, are now widely used in stress biology and ecology.

Photosynthesis research also contributes to our understanding of ecological phenomena and even the global environments (Farquhar et al. 1980 , de Pury and Farquhar 1997 , Monsi and Saeki 2005 ). Indeed, photosynthesis is now an integral component of simulation models used to predict the future of our planet. Improving the efficiency of photosynthesis by artificial modification of photosynthetic proteins and pathways has long been considered impossible or at best problematic, because, over evolutionary time, photosynthesis has become complex and tightly regulated. However, recent advances have made it possible to manipulate photosynthesis using molecular genetic technology (Andrews and Whiney 2003 , Raines 2006 ). These advances may have positive influences on crop productivity (Parry et al. 2007 ) as photosynthetic rates have frequently been correlated with biomass accretion (Kruger and Volin 2006 ). Thus, we can expect many more novel concepts to be added to this history of photosynthetic research.

As photosynthesis research tackles new challenges, we should also continue to re-evaluate past research. Oxygen evolution, energy dissipation and cyclic electron transport are crucial processes during photosynthesis, yet their mechanisms still remain to be clarified. We have very limited knowledge of the formation and degradation of photosynthetic apparatus. Also, although photosynthesis plays a central role in C and N metabolism in plants, we do not yet understand how potential photosynthesis is related to crop productivity.

Plant and Cell Physiology would like to contribute to the development of novel concepts, pioneering new fields and solving the unanswered questions of photosynthesis. This special issue covers a wide range of topics in photosynthesis research. Terashima et al. (pp. 684–697) readdress the enigmatic question of why leaves are green. They show that the light profile through a leaf is steeper than that of photosynthesis, and that the green wavelengths in white light are more effective in driving photosynthesis than red light. Evans (pp. 698–706) proposes a new model using Chl fluorescence to explore modifications in quantum yield with leaf depth. This new multilayered model can be applied to study variations in light absorption profiles, photosynthetic capacity and calculation of chloroplastic CO 2 concentration at different depths through the leaf.

Singlet oxygen, 1 O 2 , is produced by the photosystem and Chl pigments. 1 O 2 not only causes physiological damage but also activates stress response programs. The flu mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana overaccumulates protochlorophyllide that upon illumination generates singlet oxygen, causing growth cessation and cell death. Coll et al. (pp. 707–718) have isolated suppressor mutants, dubbed ‘singlet oxygen-linked death activator’ (soldat), that specifically abrogate 1 O 2 -mediated stress responses in young flu seedlings, and they discuss the processes of acclimation to stresses. Phephorbide a is a degradation product of Chl and one of the most powerful photosensitzing molecules. Mutants defective in pheophorbide a oxygenase, which converts phephorbide a to open tetrapyrrole, accumulate pheophorbide a and display cell death in a light-dependent manner. Hirashima et al. (pp. 719–729) report that pheophorbide a is involved in this light-independent cell death.

Plants regulate the redox level of the plastoquinone pool in response to the light environment. In acclimation to high-light conditions, the redox level is kept in an oxidized state by the plastoquinone oxidation system (POS). Miyake et al. (pp. 730–743) investigated the mechanism of POS using the Chl fluorescence parameter, qL.

Nagai and Makino (pp. 744–755) examine in detail the differences between rice and wheat, the two most commercially important crops, in the temperature responses of CO 2 assimilation and plant growth. They find that the difference in biomass production between the two species at the level of the whole plant depends on the difference in N-use efficiency in leaf photosynthesis and growth rate. Sage and Sage (pp. 756–772) examine chlorenchyma structure in rice and related Oryza species in relation to photosynthetic function. They find that rice chlorenchyma architecture includes adaptations to maximize the scavenging of photorespired CO 2 and to enhance the diffusive conductance of CO 2 . In addition, they consider that the introduction of Kranz anatomy does not require radical anatomical alterations in engineering C 4 rice.

Bioinformatics has become a powerful tool, especially in photosynthetic research, because photosynthetic organisms have a wide taxonomic distribution among prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Ishikawa et al. (pp. 773–788) present the results of a pilot study of functional orthogenomics, combining bioinformatic and experimental analyses to identify nuclear-encoded chloroplast proteins of endosymbiontic origin (CRENDOs). They conclude that phylogenetic profiling is useful in finding CPRENDOs, although the physiological functions of orthologous genes may be different in chloroplasts and cyanobacteria.

We hope you enjoy this special issue, and would like to invite you to submit more excellent papers to Plant and Cell Physiology in the field of photosynthesis.

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M.S. & Ph.D. in Plant Science

Plant science graduate program.

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The Plant Science Graduate Program prepares you for careers focused on all aspects of plants, including the biological, climatic and other factors that affect them. World-class researchers will mentor you, and you’ll receive excellent support and opportunities to achieve at the highest level.

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About the M.S. & Ph.D. in Plant Science

The thesis-based M.S. in Plant Science prepares you for careers in government agencies, companies and academic institutions that require a solid background in plant science and experience with research techniques and experimental design.

The Ph.D. in Plant Science prepares you for research and leadership careers in crop improvement through genetics, genomics and advanced technology; with federal and state agencies involved in traditional and digital agriculture; and at academic institutions focused on basic and applied plant sciences.

Prospective graduate students should always feel free to reach out to faculty  whose research interests overlap with yours to ask if they anticipate accepting new students.

Coursework overview

As you prepare to conduct cutting-edge research in your field of interest, you will participate in seminars and take core required courses, such as:

• Advanced Plant Biology
• Principles of Plant Microbiology

With your advisor and advisory committee’s guidance, you will choose from an array of courses to bolster fundamental knowledge and expand your horizons, including these graduate-level courses on these topics:

• Applied Cyberinfrastructure Concepts
• Methods in Cell Biology and Genomics
• Mechanisms in Plant Development
• Plant Biochemistry and Metabolic Engineering
• Plant Genetics and Genomics
• Physiology of Plant Production under Controlled Environment
• Medicinal Plants

What to expect from the program

As a new thesis-M.S. student, you will rotate through one or two working research labs to let you and your prospective advisor assess how well you work together and to help you begin to build your professional network. Once you join a research lab, you and your advisor will develop a research project and you can expect an intense summer between your first and second year as you execute the projects that will form the basis of your thesis. Coursework typically is spread over two to three semesters.

As a new Ph.D. student, you will generally rotate through two to three labs, to expand the breadth of your training, ensure fit, and begin to build your professional network. As you settle in a lab, you and your advisor will begin developing a theme for your dissertation projects. You’ll also complete coursework in the first two years and prepare for your comprehensive exam. After passing the exam, your entire focus will be on research and the creation of new and relevant information and knowledge. Your advisor and advisory committee will help you on this journey to becoming a leader and expert in your chosen field.

Year-round funding generally is offered to Ph.D. and thesis-M.S. students making satisfactory progress, through a blend of research assistantships available from the major advisor and a limited number of teaching assistantships.

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Plant Science, Master of Science (M.S.)

Thesis only: 30 credits

A program of study approved by the Advisor must be completed prior to the second semester of enrollment. This plan must be filed with the Graduate Director. The program requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of course work beyond the B.S. degree, including 6 hours of thesis research credits (799). A minimum of 12 credit hours must be earned in course-work at the 600 level or higher. Students are also required to complete one semester hour of PLSC618 and one semester hour of PLSC619 . Students must also complete one semester each of 400-level (or higher) biochemistry, plant physiology, and statistics which may be completed as part of a B.S. or M.S. degree program.

A thesis must be submitted to the Graduate School. This thesis is approved by the Thesis Examining Committee appointed by the Dean of the Graduate School upon the recommendation of the student's advisor. The advisor serves as the chairperson of the examining committee and the student's advisory committee typically serves as members of the examining committee. Committee membership must comply with Graduate School requirements for membership. The submitted thesis must comply with the University of Maryland Thesis and Dissertation Style Guide.

It is the responsibility of the Advisor and Student to ensure that all University Research Assurances are followed. Research involving human subjects must be approved in advance by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). Research involving the use of vertebrate animals must be approved in advance by the Animal Care and Use Committee. Research using hazardous materials (chemical or biological), recombinant RNA/DNA must be approved in advance by the appropriate University committee

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Plant Sciences Major

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The Plant Sciences major is designed for students who are interested in a scientific understanding of how plants grow and develop in managed agricultural ecosystems and how plant products are utilized for food, fiber and environmental enhancement. Advances in science and technology have provided new insights and options for using plants to address the issues associated with providing renewable food, fiber and energy resources for a growing global population while minimizing adverse impacts on the natural environment. Graduates in Plant Sciences are able to apply their skills and knowledge to a diverse range of agricultural and environmental goals or pursue advanced degrees in plant sciences.

The Program.  The curriculum provides depth in the biological and physical sciences and a sound understanding of how plants obtain and utilize resources from their environment to sustain their growth and development. The influences of genetics, management systems and environmental inputs on crop development and productivity are emphasized along with the postharvest preservation and marketing of plant products. Students will develop an area of specialization with options in Crop Production, Plant Genetics and Breeding, or Postharvest Biology and Technology. An Individual option is also available to match specific subject matter or career goal interests in the plant sciences. All students gain practical experience through a combination of practical laboratory courses and internships. Students may also pursue an Honors thesis in their senior year.

Three specific options and one individualized option are offered in the Plant Sciences major. Each of these requires approximately 25-30 additional units of course work in the specified areas.

Choose one of six tracks as your area of specialization within the Plant Sciences major:

• Plant breeding, genetics & genomics Problem: Evolving pests and diseases, labor shortages, declining soil and water quality, rising temperatures and declining nutritional content threaten our food production systems and food security. You will: Use genetics, biotechnology and breeding techniques to develop new varieties of plants useful to farmers, ranchers, gardeners, foresters and consumers, while understanding the societal impacts of crop improvement.  
• Crop production & agroecology Problem: Global food production is growing, but the price is high: climate-warming gases, pollution to land and water, habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. You will: Learn to see agriculture as a living web of diverse ecological interactions that is part of the solution to these problems. You’ll use core principles of plant biology and plant-environment interactions to design sustainable and resilient crop production systems in a global context. You’ll have options for further emphasis on plant nutrition, soils, pests and global food systems.  
• Plant informatics, sensing & data Problem: New, data-driven technologies in natural resource management are creating a need for trained professionals and researchers who can harness the exciting tools available to us. You will: Use drones, weather stations, satellites, artificial intelligence, machine learning and genetic information to model and monitor plant growth, nutrition, disease risk, pest development and scheduling to manage our natural resources.  
• Environmental horticulture & urban landscapes Problem: Climate, environmental and social changes threaten the livability of our cities and towns. We urgently need nature-based solutions to increase urban resilience and sustainability. You will: Learn the art and science of developing, producing and using plants that give us beauty, shade, resources and connection to the earth, ourselves and each other.  
• Ecological management & restoration Problem: Unbalanced management of natural ecosystems can impair the social, economic, and ecological services these landscapes provide to society. You will: Learn the ecology and management of non-farm environments to restore, maintain and improve their ability to nourish and protect us and the other creatures that live there, while balancing goals of land uses such as agricultural production with conservation objectives.  
• Crop quality & safety Problem: More than 1/3 of the food we produce gets wasted worldwide, while a billion people go hungry and more are poorly nourished. You will: Use basic and applied knowledge about plant sciences, engineering and economics to provide fresh, nutritious, safe, affordable, readily available and delicious food to all people.

General Catalog (publicly accessible)

Program Learning Outcomes:

Graduates of the Plant Sciences major should be able to:

I. Analyze how plants grow and develop

II. Identify plant characteristics and describe the role of the environment, genetics, evolution and breeding

III. Describe the movement of water, nutrients and energy through the biosphere and evaluate the impact of human management on these processes

IV. Critically evaluate options for sustainable plant management, including natural, urban and small and large scale production systems

V. Apply the scientific method and collect, manage, analyze and interpret data

VI. Communicate effectively in speaking and writing

VII. Work collaboratively in a team setting in both a leadership and team member role

VIII. Demonstrate personal and social responsibility

Career Alternatives.  Graduates from this program are prepared to pursue a wide range of careers, including various technical and management positions in agricultural and business enterprises, farming, or consulting; public, private, and non-profit agencies; Cooperative Extension; international development; teaching; or agricultural and environmental journalism and communication services. Graduates are qualified to pursue graduate studies in the natural and agricultural sciences, such as plant biology, genetics, breeding, horticulture, agronomy, biotechnology, ecology, environmental studies, pest management, education, or business management.

Plant Sciences Honors Thesis

The honors thesis in Plant Sciences can be an enriching experience during your undergrad program at UC Davis, as well as a competitive edge when applying for graduate schools, careers, and professional development trainings. Below is a listed sequence of courses for the Plant Sciences honors track, which should commence during Spring quarter of Junior year. Students who are already enrolled in the University Honors Program can also follow the sequence below during their 4th year of the program.

Plant Sciences Honors Thesis Course Sequence

• PLS 188 (3 units), Spring Quarter , preferably Junior year - Undergraduate Research Proposal Lecture/discussion— Lecture/discussion—3 hours. Prerequisite: upper division standing. Preparation and review of a scientific proposal. Problem definition, identification of objectives, literature survey, hypothesis generation, design of experiments, data analysis planning, proposal outline and preparation .
• PLS 189L (2-5 units), FWSp Quarters - Individual Research Laboratory—3-12 hours; discussion—1 hour. Prerequisite: course 188 and consent of instructor. Formulating experimental approaches to current questions in plant sciences ; performance of proposed experiments.
• PLS 194H (1-2 units), FWSpSu Quarters - Honors Thesis Independent Study—3-6 hours. Prerequisite: senior standing, over GPA of 3.250 or higher and consent of master adviser. Independent study of selected topics under the direction of a member or members of the staff. Completion will involve the writing of a senior thesis.

Major Advisor

Please contact [email protected] for advising support.

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The Department of Plant Sciences is an outstanding University Centre for research in plant and microbial sciences. It offers unrivalled research and training opportunities in the following areas of plant and microbial science:

• Cell function & responses to the environment
• Developmental biology & signalling
• Genetics & epigenetics
• Ecosystem function & conservation
• Evolution & diversity
• Microbiology & biotic interactions
• Plant pathology & epidemiology
• Systems & mathematical biology
• Enhancing photosynthesis
• Biotechnology & engineering

The Crop Science Centre is an alliance between the University of Cambridge’s Department of Plant Sciences and the crop research organisation NIAB. The Centre will serve as a global hub for crop science research and a base for collaborations with research partners around the world.

The research MPhil degree essentially follows the format of the PhD but is compressed into one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study. The work consists of research and courses as required under academic supervision. Applicants should contact a potential supervisor before proceeding with their MPhil application. You can browse the personal/group pages of the Research Group Leaders to check the details of their research.

The aim of the course is to provide Masters-level training in practical aspects of Plant Sciences, augmented by appropriate lecture courses delivered within the Department. 

The course provides training in a wide range of disciplines, which can include plant genetic engineering, plant development, plant molecular biology, plant biophysics, plant biochemistry, plant-microbe interactions, algal microbiology, plant ecology, crop biology, plant virology, plant epigenetics, epidemiology, plant taxonomy, plant physiology, eco-physiology and bioinformatics. 

Having identified a research area of interest and contacted the appropriate supervisor, the first stage in developing an application should be to draft an appropriate research summary of the training to be undertaken. 

MPhil students must submit a thesis for examination within the maximum period of their study.

All postgraduate students attend induction and safety training courses in the Department.

As well as undertaking their research, students will attend courses and lectures on some of the following: instrumentation, sequencing and database use, statistics, experimental design, analysing data, writing reports and a thesis, and how to give effective scientific presentations. Students are expected to take part in the Postgraduate School of Life Sciences' Researcher Development Programme.

Students receive termly reports on their work.

Learning Outcomes

The primary outcomes from successfully completing the MPhil include:

• specialist training in experimental or theoretical methods;
• an ability to analyse relevant literature and apply it to the development of innovative research;
• capacity to develop and apply data abstraction and analytical procedures with an appropriate level of statistical validation;
• independence in designing and conducting original research, and preparing that data in a format suitable for publication in peer-reviewed journals;
• enhanced organisational skills, in terms of time management, good laboratory practices, safety and planning of a specific programme of research.

MPhil candidate's are required to draft a project proposal four weeks after starting the course and deliver a seminar and prepare a thesis plan four months before their thesis submission deadline.  

As an MPhil student, you must keep a separate training log, in which you will record all seminars and lectures attended and given, training undertaken, the highlights of your research work, and your notes of discussions with your supervisor(s). This log will be quite distinct from your laboratory notebook(s) which should contain all the details of your research work. 

The Masters thesis has a word limit set at 20,000 words, exclusive of tables, footnotes, bibliography, and appendices.

The MPhil provides specialist training in scientific methodology relevant to the project subject area and based on the expertise of the supervisor and research group. This training also enables students from other scientific areas to proceed with a career in plant sciences and other allied areas. General training is also available and includes courses and lectures in instrumentation, sequencing and database use, statistics, experimental design, analysing data, writing reports and a thesis, and how to give effective scientific presentations. The training in research and preparation of the Masters thesis will provide an excellent foundation for those wishing to continue onto a PhD programme.  

On successfully passing the MPhil, students are welcome to apply to continue to a PhD. There is no automatic continuation from an MPhil to a PhD, and a new application must be made and a suitable supervisor must be identified. If a formal offer of admission to the PhD is made, this will usually be conditional and depend upon you meeting several conditions including your performance in the MPhil, as well as on providing evidence of your ability to fund your PhD studies. 

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the  Postgraduate Open Day  page for more details.

See further the  Postgraduate Admissions Events  pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

Key Information

12 months full-time, 2 years part-time, study mode : research, master of philosophy, department of plant sciences, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, lent 2024 (closed).

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Easter 2024 (Closed)

Michaelmas 2024 (closed), easter 2025, funding deadlines.

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2024, Lent 2025 and Easter 2025.

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University of Manitoba

University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada, R3T 2N2

Department of Plant Science

The Department of Plant Science offers educational and research programming across areas such as sustainable cropping systems, agronomy, plant physiology, breeding and genetics. Since 1937, we have been internationally recognized for plant science research and are proud to be the home of the first canola variety ever developed.

When you study plant science at the University of Manitoba, you will develop a solid foundation across the fields of crop and ecosystem management, agronomy, and advanced biotechnology.

Our areas of teaching and research include crop breeding, plant pathology, cropping systems, forage production, and plant biotechnology. Your studies will take you into the laboratory, the greenhouse and the field.

Our courses apply to several of the Faculty's programs.

• BSc (Agroecology)
• BSc (Agriculture) - Agronomy
• BSc (Agriculture) - Plant Biotechnology
• Diploma in Agriculture

Plant Science BSc program courses

• PLNT 1000 Urban Agriculture
• PLNT 2500 Crop Production
• PLNT 2520 Genetics
• PLNT 2530 Plant Biotechnology
• PLNT 3140 Introductory Cytogenetics
• PLNT 3400 Plant Physiology
• PLNT 3520 Principles of Plant Improvement
• PLNT 3540 Weed Science
• PLNT 3560 Organic Crop Production on the Prairies
• PLNT 3570 Fundamentals of Plant Pathology
• PLNT 4270 Plant Disease Control
• PLNT 4310 Introductory Plant Genomics
• PLNT 4330 Intermediate Plant Genetics
• PLNT 4380 Plant Science Thesis
• PLNT 4410 Grassland Agriculture: Plant, Animal and Environment
• PLNT 4510 Advanced Cropping Systems
• PLNT 4550 Developmental Plant Biology
• PLNT 4570 Research Methods in Plant Pathology
• PLNT 4580 Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions
• PLNT 4590 Physiology of Crop Plants
• PLNT 4610 Bioinformatics

Course outlines

BSc Agriculture (Plant Biotechnology) information in the Academic Calendar

BSc Agriculture (Agronomy) information in the Academic Calendar

Plant Science Diploma in Agriculture courses

PLNT 0410 Crop Production Principles and Practices PLNT 0750 Forage and Pasture Management PLNT 0760 Crop Production Specialization and Innovation PLNT 0770 Weed Management PLNT 0780 Plant Disease Management PLNT 0820 Organic Crop Production on the Prairies

Program information is available in the Academic Calendar

The department offers courses leading to MSc and PhD degrees. Our researchers are leaders in canola and cereal breeding, cytogenetics and plant biotechnology.

Our research focus is on five main areas: agronomy and plant protection; plant breeding and genetics; sustainable cropping systems; plant physiology-biochemistry; plant biotechnology, genomics and bioinformatics. Our graduate students work alongside internationally recognized researchers in our laboratory, greenhouse and field facilities.

• Plant Science graduate programs

Research and facilities

The Department of Plant Science has active research programs directed at developing superior cultivars and new production systems suited to the changing needs of producers and the agri-food industry.

Our researchers are involved in international activities, and training and development with many countries. The Department maintains excellent working relationships and is involved in joint projects with scientists and specialists from both federal and provincial government agricultural agencies and with industrial partners. Research facilities include an ample greenhouse, environment controlled chambers, state-of-the-art laboratories, and two field research stations.

• Plant Science research and facilities

Crop Diagnostic School

This event, organized by Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development and the University of Manitoba, is designed to refine the diagnostic skills of agronomists and producers involved in field scouting and assessing crop health.

Manitoba Agriculture and Food Knowledge Exchange

MAKE is where we share Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences research that is shaping agriculture and food production in Manitoba and around the world.

Learn more about us

Awards and scholarships.

Learn how we can help pay for your program

Faculty and staff

Get acquainted with the Plant Science team.

Staff and student resources

Department resources.

• Policies and procedures (PDF)  
• Policy on Adjunct Professors (PDF)
• Student Employment Application (PDF)  

Safety Procedures

• Ian N. Morrison Research Farm, Carman (PFD)
• Lab Safety Checklist (PDF)
• The Point Safety Checklist (PDF)
• FAFS Biosecurity Protocol (PDF)
• Protocol for Managing PNT's (PDF)

You may also be looking for

Contact a graduate academic advisor, first year planning, contact an undergraduate academic advisor.

Department of Plant Science Room 222 Agriculture Building 66 Dafoe Road University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus) Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada

• Undergraduate Programs
• Graduate Programs
• Agribusiness and Applied Economics
• Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
• Agricultural and Family Education
• Animal Sciences
• Microbiological Sciences
• Plant Pathology

Plant Sciences

• School of Natural Resource Sciences
• Career Options
• Scholarships
• Student Organizations

The Department of Plant Sciences at North Dakota State University is a diverse department with regional, national, and world-respected expertise. As part of the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources, the department offers academic programs that prepare students for careers in expanding job markets.

Learn more about the Department

The mission of the Department of Plant Sciences is to:

• Teach the sciences of plant breeding and genetics, weed science, biotechnology, horticulture, agronomic crop production, turfgrass management, and cereal and food science.
• Perform basic and applied research to advance the field of crop, weed, horticultural, and cereal and food sciences. 
• Provide information to the public in the form of professional publications, Extension bulletins, and programs. 

The demand for Plant Sciences graduates is high, not only in North Dakota and the region, but throughout the United States and the world. The Department of Plant Sciences provides students with the knowledge, skills and understanding critical for professional success in a changing world.

Undergraduate majors  include a B.S. in Crop and Weed Sciences, Food Science, or Horticulture.

Graduate programs include a M.S. in Cereal Science, Horticulture, or Plant Sciences, and a Ph.D. in Cereal Science or Plant Sciences.

Basic and applied research in the plant sciences is extensive and includes small grains, beans, oilseeds, alternative crops, horticulture, forestry, turfgrass, and weed science.

Learn about our Research Programs

NDSU Fruit, Hemp, Vegetable and Woody Plant Field Day

Ndsu dale e. herman research arboretum 50th anniversary, contact info.

NDSU Dept 7670, PO Box 6050 Fargo , ND 58108-6050 United States

Loftsgard Hall 166, NDSU Fargo, ND 58102

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1230 Albrecht Blvd, Fargo ND  58102 Mailing address:  NDSU Dept. 7520, PO Box 6050, Fargo, ND  58108-6050

North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student-focused, land-grant, research university. NDSU Agriculture educates students with interests in agriculture, food systems and natural resources; fosters communities through partnerships that educate the public; provides creative, cost-effective solutions to current problems; and pursues fundamental and applied research to help shape a better world.

MSc and BSc thesis topics at HPP

Wageningen University students can do their BSc and/or MSc thesis in collaboration with the Horticulture and Product Physiology (HPP) group. Below you can find a variety of possible thesis subjects. On the subpage of each of the three research themes, you can find a list of possible thesis projects.

Interested in doing a BSc or MSc thesis at HPP? Please contact the HPP student coordinator Katharina Hanika. General information can also be found in the documents on the righthand side and thesis topics are also listed in the Internship and thesis projects database .

Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the driving force for most trophic systems on Earth. Basic research is conducted into understanding the regulation and limitations of photosynthesis. To do this, instrumentation that allows to look at the biophysical engine of photosynthesis inside the leaf, is developed and used. In addition, source/sink relationships are studied as optimal photosynthesis will only lead to optimal growth and quality if attention is paid to balancing the source and sink strength in plants.

Morphogenesis

The function and structure of a plant show strong interactions. These interactions are studied in an integrated way. The morphogenesis of plants is at least as important as leaf photosynthesis in determining plant growth. Furthermore, the morphology of the plant is a very important determinant of the quality of many horticultural (ornamental) plants.

Product physiology

The quality of a fruit, a flower, or a pot plant does not end when it leaves the grower. Neither does it start when it is bought by for instance a trading company. Quality is studied as a continuous process from cultivation through the post-harvest phase until the product is used by the consumers. Furthermore, in order to control product quality HPP not only aims to understand the processes underlying product quality but it also develops methodologies for monitoring product quality.

Discovering how plants make life-and-death decisions

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered two proteins that work together to determine the fate of cells in plants facing certain stresses.

Ironically, a key discovery in this finding, published recently in  Nature Communications , was made right as the project’s leader was getting ready to destress.

Postdoctoral researcher Noelia Pastor-Cantizano was riding a bus to the airport to fly out for vacation, when she decided to share a promising result she had helped gather a day earlier.

“I didn’t want to wait ten days until I came back to send it. It took almost two years to get there,” said Pastor-Cantizano, who then worked in the  Brandizzi lab  in the MSU-DOE Plant Research Laboratory, or  PRL .

“That’s what I remember at the moment,” Pastor-Cantizano said. “I was thinking ‘I can relax now, at least for one week.’

Pastor-Cantizano had been working identify a gene in the model plant Arabidopsis that could control the plants response to stressors, which can lead to the plant’s death. She and her collaborators had identified a protein in Arabidopsis that seemed to control whether a plant would live or die under stress conditions.

Having identified the gene was just the beginning of the story, despite being years into the journey. It would take five more years to get to this new paper.

The researchers discovered that the proteins BON-associated protein2, or BAP2, and inositol-requiring enzyme 1, or IRE1, work together when dealing with stress conditions — a matter of life and death for plant cells.

Understanding how these proteins function can help researchers breed plants that are more resilient to death conditions.

Creating plants that are more resistant to endoplasmic reticulum stress, or ER stress, has widespread implications in agriculture. If crops can be made to be more resilient in the face of drought or heat conditions, the plants stand a better chance of surviving and thriving, despite the changing climate.

“Research in our lab is fueled by enthusiasm and gratitude to be able to make important contributions to science,” said  Federica Brandizzi,  MSU Research Foundation Professor in the Department of Plant Biology and at the PRL. “The work was herculean, and has been possible only thanks to the patience, enthusiasm and dedication of a wonderful team. Noelia was simply fantastic.”

Working in tandem

Within eukaryotic cells is an organelle known as the endoplasmic reticulum, or ER. It creates proteins and folds them into shapes the cell can utilize. Like cutting up vegetables to use in a recipe, the proteins must be formed into the right shape before they can be used.

Protein making and protein folding capacity must be in balance, like a sous chef and a chef, working in tandem. If the sous chef is providing the chef with too little or too many ingredients, it throws off the balance in the kitchen.

When the ER cannot properly do its job, or the balance is thrown off, it enters a state known as ER stress. The cell will jumpstart a mechanism known as the unfolded protein response, or UPR, to decide what to do next. If the problem can be resolved, the cell will initiative life saving measures to resolve the problem. If it cannot be, the cell begins to shut down, ending its and potentially the plant’s life.

It was known that the enzyme IRE1 was responsible for directing the mechanisms that would either save the cell or kill it off.

But what calls IRE1 to action?

In this study, the Brandizzi lab researchers were searching for the master regulator of these pro-death processes, known as programmed cell death.

“I had the idea because I read that irritable bowel disease is linked to a mutation in a gene controlled by IRE1 that occurs among humans,” Brandizzi said. “Humans are diverse and so are plants. So I thought to look into plant diversity as a source of new important findings in the UPR.”

The researchers started by looking at hundreds of accessions, or plants of the same species but specific to one locale. For example, a plant that grows in Colombia will have genetic variations to the same species of plant that grows in Spain, and the ways they each respond to stress conditions could differ.

They found extensive variation in the response to ER stress between the different accessions. Taking the accessions whose responses were the most dissimilar, they tried to identify the differences in their genomes. This is where the BAP2 gene candidate came into play.

“We found that BAP2 responds to ER stress,” said Pastor-Cantizano, who is currently a postdoc at the University of Valencia. “And the cool thing is that it is able to control and modify the activity of IRE1. But also IRE1 is able to regulate BAP2 expression.”

BAP2 and IRE1 work together, signaling to each other what the best course of action for the cell is. Having one without the other results in the death of the plant when the ER homeostasis is unbalanced.

Seven years

From start to finish, this project took over seven years of dedicated work.

Day in and out, the researchers spent their time tediously placing seeds onto plates with a medium in which they could grow. Arabidopsis seeds are not much larger than grains of sand at their smallest, so this was delicate work that required time and attention.

From there, the researchers spent several more months with these plants, looking at the accessions offsprings and identifying how BAP2 worked within the plants. This took another few years.

“It has been a long road with its obstacles, but it has been worth it,” said Pastor-Cantizano. “When I started this project, I couldn’t imagine how it would end.”

This work was funded by the National Institutes of Health, with contributing support from Chemical Sciences, Geoscience and Biosciences Division, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Office of Science, U.S. Department of Energy; the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Office of Biological and Environmental Research; and MSU AgBioResearch. Additional contributing support comes from the Generalitat Valenciana, “European Union NextGenerationEU/PRTR.”

This story was originally published by MSU-DOE Plant Research Laboratory.

About the MSU Innovation Center:  

The MSU Innovation Center is dedicated to fostering innovation, research commercialization, and entrepreneurial activities from the research and discovery happening across our campus every day. We act as the primary interface for researchers aiming to see their research applied to solving real-world problems and making the world a better place to live. We aim to empower faculty, researchers, and students within our community of scholars by providing them with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to bring their discoveries to the forefront.

Through strategic collaborations with the private sector, we aim to amplify the impact of faculty research and drive economic growth while positively impacting society. We foster mutually beneficial, long-term relationships with the private sector through corporate-sponsored research collaborations, technology licensing discussions, and support for faculty entrepreneurs to support the establishment of startup companies.   

Is your company interested in working with MSU’s vast team of plant researchers? Click Here .