May/June 2014 • Volume 41, Number 3

p. 4 p. 5 p. 30 Sabeeha Merchant ASPB 2014 Award SURF’s Up for 2014! Named Next Winners Recipients of the ASPB Editor-in-Chief ASPB awards those indi- Summer Undergradu- of The Plant Cell viduals who promote the ate Research Fellowship mission of our Society (SURF) Sabeeha begins her term January 1, 2015

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLANT BIOLOGISTS

President’s Letter See You Your New Society Celebrates in Portland! an Old Tradition July 12–16! Meeting the Needs of the Plant Science Community! BY ALAN M. JONES ASPB President, University of North Carolina Inside you’ll find inety years ago, the remains today, to publish high- An up-to-date list of American Society of quality science covering the minisymposia NPlant Physiologists breadth of plant biology. The (now ASPB) began with journal has evolved constantly Top attractions its Constitution and 104 to meet that obligation and the in Portland members (http://my.aspb. needs of a large global commu- org/?page=history). Largely nity of plant scientists. In fact, spearheaded by founders it is this ethos of “meeting the Information on Charles A. Shull and Rodney needs of plant scientists” that Portland’s MAX Light Rail B. Harvey, the Society emerged has shaped our Society for near- (get your free pass at from a growing dissatisfaction ly a century. Alan Jones Registration!) that the Physiological Section Twenty-five years ago, ASPB of the Botanical Society of America was not made some bold investments to meet another meeting the needs of its members. One of need of the plant science community. By those needs turned out to be a journal dedi- the 1980s, the fields of plant molecular and cated to plant physiology, which at the time cellular biology had matured to a point where was a rapidly expanding subdiscipline of their discoveries merited audiences beyond Coverage starts botany. plant physiologists; however, the premier Our Society created its first publica- general science journals were not able to on page 10 tion, Plant Physiology, in early 1926 and keep up with publication of groundbreaking has enjoyed many successes ever since. “plant” papers. For example, I discussed a The mandate for Plant Physiology was, and continued on page 3 Contents ASPB staff are dedicated to serving our members. We welcome your questions and feedback. For quick response, e-mail us at [email protected] or visit our FAQ at www.aspb.org/faq. ASPB Executive Committee 1 President’s Letter President Alan M. Jones Immediate past president Peggy G. Lemaux 3 Donna Gordon President-elect Julian Schroeder 4 Sabeeha Merchant Named Next Editor-in-Chief of Secretary Karen Koch The Plant Cell Treasurer Karen Koster Chair, Board of Trustees Richard Amasino 5 ASPB Announces 2014 Awards Chair, Publications Committee Sally Mackenzie Chair, Women in Plant Biology Committee Kateri Duncan 9 ASPB’s 2014 Women’s Young Investigator Travel Award Chair, Minority Affairs Committee John Harada Winners Announced Chair, Education Committee Kathleen Archer Chair, International Committee Tuan-Hua David Ho Chair, Membership Committee David Horvath Plant Biology 2014 Chair, Committee on Science Policy Patrick Schnable 10 It’s all About the Science—Previews of Minisymposia Elected members Elizabeth (Lisa) Ainsworth Richard Vierstra 12 Top Attractions in Portland MariaElena B. Zavala Sectional Representatives 14 Portland’s MAX Light Rail Midwestern Sarah E. Wyatt Northeastern Om Parkash Dhankher Southern Kent Chapman Section News Mid-Atlantic Hemayet Ullah 15 ASPB Midwestern Section Annual Meeting Report Western Camille Steber 16 78th ASPB Northeastern Section Annual Meeting Report ASPB Staff 18 ASPB Southern Section Annual Meeting Report Executive director Crispin Taylor, [email protected] Director of finance and administration Kim Kimnach, [email protected] Where Are They Now? Executive and governance affairs administrator Sylvia Lee, [email protected] Accounts receivable and payable specialist Stephanie Liu-Kuan, [email protected] 18 Machi and Gregory Dilworth Senior staff accountant Jotee Pundu, [email protected] Director of digital marketing strategy Susan Cato, [email protected] Director of meetings, People marketing, and membership Jean Rosenberg, [email protected] Membership manager Shoshana Kronfeld, [email protected] 20 From Around the Web Meetings, marketing, and membership assistant Melanie Binder, [email protected] Legislative and public affairs director Tyrone Spady, [email protected] Science Policy Education coordinator Katie Engen, [email protected] Director of publications Nancy A. Winchester, [email protected] 21 Science Policy Committee Meets in Washington, D.C. Publications assistant Diane McCauley, [email protected] Subscriptions manager Suzanne Cholwek, [email protected] 22 Policy Update Subscriptions assistant Linda Palmer, [email protected] Managing editor Patti Lockhart, [email protected] Education Forum Science writer, Plant Physiology Peter Minorsky, [email protected] Production manager, Plant Physiology Jon Munn, [email protected] 23 “Wicked Good” Outreach in Boston Manuscript manager, Plant Physiology Ashton Wolf, [email protected] Senior features editor, The Plant Cell Nan Eckardt, [email protected] 25 Walk the Talk Features editor, The Plant Cell Mary Williams, [email protected] 27 New ASPB Partnership: The Life Science Teaching Production manager, The Plant Cell Susan Entwistle, [email protected] Resource Community Manuscript manager, The Plant Cell Annette Kessler, [email protected] The ASPB News is distributed to all ASPB members and is also available online. It is pub- 28 PULSE: The Beat Goes On lished six times annually in odd-numbered months. Its purposes are to keep membership informed of ASPB activities and to reinforce the value of membership. The ASPB News 30 SURF’s Up for 2014 is edited and produced by ASPB staff from material provided by members and other interested parties. Copy deadline is the 5th day of the preceding even-numbered month (for example, Obituary December 5 for January/February publication). Contact: Nancy A. Winchester, Editor, ASPB News, 15501 Monona Drive, Rockville, MD 34 Sydney Kustu 20855-2768 USA; [email protected]; 301-296-0904. © 2014 American Society of Plant Biologists

2  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 PRESIDENT’S LETTER broadly, more deeply, and more continued from page 1 efficiently. We will demonstrate many of the new services that relevant series of high-interest we are creating to support and papers on plant transformation engage the plant science commu- Donna Gordon in the March/April President’s nity at PB2014, but I would like Letter. Therefore, in 1989, ASPB to briefly describe your future 1949–2014 took a huge leap in the publica- ASPB here. Imagine a digital tion arena by investing in The ecosystem with the sophistica- Plant Cell as a publication home tion of ResearchGateTM and It is with very heavy hearts for major advances in topical LinkedInTM but customized that we notify our readers that plant cell and molecular biol- around your plant biology needs. our lovely Donna Gordon ogy. The experiment worked, the Imagine sharing your personal died April 4 after a long battle investments paid off, and this libraries of papers, collaborating with cancer. Donna was one year we are celebrating The Plant around a global research project, of the most visible ASPB Donna Gordon Cell’s silver anniversary. We are or even connecting with other staff members—always at also celebrating the selection of like-minded individuals in person the registration desk during jack-of-all-trades, Donna was Sabeeha Merchant as the journal’s and online year-round. How great Plant Biology meetings as our our friend. She was lovely sixth editor-in-chief (see story would it be to have tools that “go-to” person (“Ask Donna! inside and out, and we were on page 4); her term begins in help you stay on top of funding Donna will know!”)—and heartbroken to hear the very January. and research opportunities, and ably managed Executive sad news of her death from These journals are an integral then connect to other plant biolo- Committee meetings as our her family. part of your Society. To make this gists for collaboration around executive assistant until her Donations in Donna’s ever more obvious, the editors- them? Better yet, finding recently retirement in fall 2011. She memory can be made to in-chief of The Plant Cell and funded projects and applying for also was the Society’s gover- the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Plant Physiology, Cathie Martin a position on the team. When you nance affairs administrator, Cancer Center (http://tinyurl. and Mike Blatt, respectively, are apply, sending your CV will be as overseeing the voting and com/7vehl9r). conducting a new experiment at easy as exporting it to a prefor- awards operations. But more Read more at http:// Plant Biology 2014 (see page 7 in matted template directly from than just a crackerjack office- tinyurl.com/nc7q4kw. the January/February issue of the your online profile. ASPB News). They have devel- We are planning other tools oped a set of journal-organized to help you succeed, including a major and minisymposia and revamped career center, an online other activities centered on the poster creator, a FeedlyTM-style grand challenge of sustainably content library, professional feeding a growing human popula- development modules, TED-like tion. I look forward to seeing you plant science videos, and much in Portland and to enjoying these more. lectures and networking events Better connections, more that Cathie and Mike have care- professional training, cutting- fully organized for you. edge teaching resources, and rele- Times are a-changin’. More vant career advancement services than ever before, ASPB is now all will soon be available at your focused on serving the needs fingertips in the digital world. of plant biologists faster, more See you in Portland! n

continued on page 4 ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  3 Sabeeha Merchant Named Next Editor-in-Chief of That’s the forecast if you use Model TSC33SD for your vernalization The Plant Cell studies. At a setting of 6.5º C, it provides 250 micromoles of digitally controlled light intensity. And our unique air delivery system provides excellent control of air temperature on each shelf because it can be adjusted to correct for air density as the temperature setpoint is changed. abeeha Merchant has No other manufacturer offers that! been named the next Lighting detail • 5-50º C temperature range editor-in-chief of The S Sunny and• BlackCold light and HO Plant Cell, succeeding Cathie light capabilities Martin. Her five-year term will • Shelf to shelf begin January 1, 2015. temperature uniformity “ASPB is very fortunate to • 33” W x 29” H footprint have Sabeeha Merchant as the • Quiet bottom-mounted next editor-in-chief of The Plant compressor Cell,” remarked ASPB president • 16.7 ft² of shelf space Alan Jones. “She is one of plant under the lights biology’s brightest minds, and I • 8” between shelf and lights am confident that her impressive • Shelves/lights unplug experience as an editor and her Made in the USA and slide out for removal outstanding leadership and vision Sabeeha Merchant • Optional humidity control will ensure continued success and take the journal to new heights in published in the October 12, the publishing arena.” 2007, issue of Science. Please contact us at 800-998-0500 or www.powersscientific.com for more information and pricing. Sabeeha is distinguished Regarding her editorship professor of biochemistry at the of The Plant Cell, Sabeeha University of California, Los commented that she is excited to Angeles, and a member of the step into this position at a time National Academy of Sciences that offers so many opportunities Sabeeha Merchant Elected and the American Academy to incorporate technologies for of Arts and Sciences (http:// accessing content and reaching Fellow of the American Acad- tinyurl.com/n2vn7mm). She out to both readers and authors. has a BS and PhD in biochem- “I am committed to providing emy of Arts & Sciences istry from the University of high-quality articles for our read- Wisconsin and conducted post- ers and the best publishing expe- doctoral research at Harvard rience for our authors, with rapid The American Academy of Arts and Sciences has announced University. She is internationally turnaround and fair decisions its 2014 class of new members, which includes incoming (2015) renowned for developing the from a scholarly and dedicated editor-in-chief of The Plant Cell, Sabeeha Merchant, of the concepts of metal sparing and team of coeditors.” University of California, Los Angeles. recycling in biology through Sabeeha’s many honors The complete list of new members is located at https://www. her analysis of nutritional include a Searle Scholars Award, amacad.org/members. copper and iron signaling in a National Institutes of Health Since its founding in 1780, the Academy has elected leading Chlamydomonas, a tiny but Research Career Development “thinkers and doers” from each generation, including George complex green alga. Working Award, a Guggenheim Fellow­ Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Daniel Webster, Ralph Waldo with more than 100 scientists ship, the Gilbert Morgan Smith Emerson, Margaret Meade, and Martin Luther King, Jr. The worldwide, she was the lead Medal of the National Academy current membership includes more than 250 Nobel laureates and author of a “dictionary” of its of Sciences, and the Kettering more than 60 Pulitzer Prize winners. approximately 15,000 genes, Award from ASPB. n 4  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 ASPB Announces 2014 Awards

ach year, ASPB honors ex- cellence in research, educa- Etion, outreach, and service through its numerous awards to those individuals who promote the mission of our Society. We are proud to announce this year’s recipients. Susanne von Caemmerer Charles Albert Shull Award Libo Shan Texas A&M University Jing-Ke Weng Libo Shan has earned this year’s Charles Albert Shull Award for her Libo Shan impressive contributions to the field of plant–microbe interactions biology. This year’s recipient is and plant immune signaling. Libo’s James N. (Jim) Siedow, who is rec- research discoveries have deepened ognized and honored for both his our understanding of the function stellar research in plant biochem- of plant immune receptors and the istry and his service to the plant downstream pathways they trigger. biology community, within and Her multidisciplinary approaches beyond ASPB. Over the course of have revealed the important and a 40-year career, Jim helped found Jim Siedow unexpected mechanisms of ubiq- the field of mitochondrial bioen- uitin-mediated degradation of the ergetics, and he has been a strong apply the model. She went on to FLS2 flagellin receptor in dampen- and effective advocate for plant develop an equally widely used

ing pattern-triggered signaling, biology research. He has also made model of C4 photosynthesis. She Brent Buckner dual-specificity phosphorylation numerous highly valued contribu- resolved the long-debated and by the cytoplasmic receptor kinase tions to ASPB, including his in- critical question of why there is so recipient is Jing‐Ke Weng, who is BIK1 in immune signaling, and the sightful leadership as the Society’s much Rubisco by showing that un- recognized for his extraordinary effects of temperature on the differ- president (1994–1995). der high light, Rubisco exerts very record of achievement, creativity, ential regulation of pattern- and ef- strong metabolic control in both C3 and future promise as a leader in fector-triggered signaling pathways. Charles F. Kettering Award and C4 plants and therefore is not understanding the evolution of Libo’s efforts to establish cotton as a Susanne von Caemmerer in excess. Most recently, Susanne biochemical diversity in plants. model system will help future work Australian National Ministry has led the way toward resolving refine disease protection strategies anomalies around the critical issue Susanne von Caemmerer co­ Excellence in Education for agriculturally important plants. of mesophyll conductance. developed what is arguably the Award most widely used biochemical Brent Buckner Charles Reid Barnes Life model in plant biology—the Early Career Award Truman State University Membership Award Farquhar, von Caemmerer, and Jing-Ke Weng James N. Siedow The 2014 Excellence in Education Berry model of C3 photosynthe- Massachusetts Institute of Duke University sis. Susanne co-led the effort to Technology Award honors Brent Buckner. The Charles Reid Barnes Life translate the model to practice, first The Early Career Award acknowl- Brent is recognized as a leader, Membership Award, ASPB’s oldest identifying the key physiological edges outstanding research by a not only for his innovative teach- award, was established in 1925 and measurements and then the new scientist generally not more than ing and high-quality mentoring, honors lifelong service in plant molecular approaches needed to seven years post-PhD. This year’s continued on page 6 ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  5 ASPB AWARDS continued from page 5 but also for engaging in funded projects that reach far beyond his institution. He has an impressive record of working with under- graduate students on meaningful research projects leading to mu- tual publications and of placing students into excellent graduate and professional programs (fre- quently in the plant sciences). Brent has been an influential contributor to national programs, Thomas Guilfoyle Mike Thomashow Cathie Martin including MaizeGDB and DNA Subway, through the iPlant recognizes Dr. Rabson’s steadfast to distinguished plant biologists Collaborative. By teaching others advocacy for plant biology through from outside the United States. to use evidence-based teaching the creation of funding programs strategies, he serves an invaluable in the DOE for research in basic Cathie Martin role in the plant biology com- energy sciences. John Innes Centre munity. Cathie Martin is a group leader Stephen Hales Prize at the John Innes Centre and Lawrence Bogorad Award Mike Thomashow professor at the University of for Excellence in Plant Michigan State University, East East Anglia, United Kingdom. Biology Research Lansing Her research spans the entire Thomas J. Guilfoyle Mike Thomashow is the 2014 spectrum of plant biology, from University of Missouri–Columbia recipient of the Stephen Hales fundamental to applied. Her fun- Thomas J. Guilfoyle is the 2014 prize, which honors the Reverend damental research has focused recipient of the ASPB Lawrence Dominique Loqué Stephen Hales for his pioneering on cellular specialization, espe- Bogorad Award for Excellence in work in plant biology, published cially how color and cell shape Plant Biology Research, which greatly inspired a broad spectrum in his 1727 book, Vegetable in flowers are used by different honors Dr. Bogorad’s many con- of plant biologists and students in Staticks. Mike is recognized for plants for pollinator attraction. tributions to plant biology. Tom fields ranging from plant physiol- his important contributions to- Cathie discovered key genes that has been an inspiring pioneer ogy to biochemistry, genetics, and ward understanding the responses control pigment production and and innovative leader since the molecular biology. His work and of plants to cold. Furthermore, he showed that these genes can be inception of plant molecular biol- vision continue to provide illu- has served plant biology in many manipulated and transferred ogy. He has made fundamental mination in current research and ways, including as president of among plant species to generate scientific contributions in ap- stimulate future innovations in ASPB (2005–2006), as an editor new colors and patterns. Cathie plying cutting-edge molecular plant biology. of major journals, as director of took advantage of the oppor- technologies and approaches the MSU–DOE Plant Research tunity to develop her research toward developing invaluable Robert Rabson Award Lab in a difficult period, and by findings for the promotion of hu- tools and novel concepts that have Dominique Loqué promoting plant science at the lo- man health, and she was recently illuminated new directions of Lawrence Berkeley National cal and national levels. recognized as Most Promising research in plant hormone signal- Laboratory, Berkeley, California Innovator of 2014 by the UK, the ing and propelled discoveries in For his exceptional creativity in de- Corresponding Members Biological and Biotechnological plant transcriptional regulation, veloping several novel and widely Corresponding Member status is Science Research Council. viral replication, and auxin biol- applicable strategies for plant cell conferred by election on the an- She was also rewarded for her ogy. In addition to his research wall engineering, Dominique nual ballot. This honor, initially notable contributions to plant achievements, Tom’s dedication, Loqué is the winner of the second given in 1932, provides life mem- biotechnology and her service creativity, and generosity have Robert Rabson Award. This award bership and Society publications to plant science, including as 6  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 and public service. Current members of ASPB who have contributed to the Society for at least 10 years are eligible for nomination.

Janet Braam Rice University, Houston, Texas Janet has made fundamental contributions to our understand- ing of the signaling pathways through which plants perceive changes in their environment and Carl Douglas Su-May Yu Janet Braam mount appropriate responses. She has served ASPB as a proac- tive and insightful member of the editor-in-chief of The Plant Cell, of the Canadian Society of Plant Program Committee (2007–2012) when she was awarded an MBE Biologists (CSPB; 2007–2011), and the Charles Reid Barnes Life (Member of the Most Excellent in which capacity he served as a Membership Committee (2000– Order of the British Empire) by cohost for the joint CSPB–ASPB 2003; chair, 2003). the Queen of England. Cathie Plant Biology meeting in Montréal has served on the editorial board in 2010. He has been a member Eduardo Blumwald of The Plant Cell continuously for of ASPB for almost 30 years, and University of California, Davis 15 years as coeditor, assigning he is active this year on the ASPB editor, and, since 2008, as editor- Program Committee. He has orga- Eduardo’s extensive contributions in-chief. She has been a long- nized several recent international to our understanding of transport standing member of ASPB, and meetings. mechanisms that contribute to she has served as a conference abiotic stress tolerance exemplify chair, keynote speaker, plenary Su-May Yu the importance of basic plant biology in developing strategies speaker, and session organizer at Institute of Molecular Biology, Eduardo Blumwald numerous conferences, including Academia Sinica, Taiwan to improve crop performance. He has served ASPB through his ser- ASPB meetings. Su-May is a distinguished re- of international and national vice on the International Affairs search fellow at the Institute of awards, including Fellow of the Committee (2008–2010), by Carl Douglas Molecular Biology, Academia American Association for the organizing international (1989) University of British Columbia, Sinica, Taiwan. She is recognized Advancement of Science (AAAS; and western regional (2003, 2013) Canada internationally for her pioneer- 2009) and Taiwan Outstanding ASPB conferences, and by chair- ing work on rice transformation Women in Science (2013). In Carl Douglas is a professor at the ing the ASPB Western Section using Agrobacterium, which addition, she has been an active University of British Columbia, (2010–2013). Canada. He is recognized interna- she followed up by establishing member of ASPB. tionally for his pioneering work on a large rice T-DNA insertional Tuan-Hua David Ho 2014 ASPB Fellow Awards molecular biology and genetics of mutant population. Su-May’s Washington University in St. plant metabolism with particular research has also provided new Established in 2007 and granted Louis and Institute of Plant and contributions through his research insight into the source–sink to no more than 0.2% of the cur- Microbial Biology, Academia on phenylpropanoid metabolism, relationship that balances nutri- rent membership, the Fellow of Sinica, Taiwan lignin biosynthesis, and regulation ent demand and supply at the ASPB Award may be given in David is internationally recog- of plant cell wall biosynthesis. He beginning of the life cycle in recognition of distinguished and nized for his contributions to our has also been a major contribu- cereals. She has also successfully long-term contributions to plant understanding of hormonal regu- tor to the establishment and de- translated her innovative basic biology and service to the Society lation of seed germination and velopment of poplar as a model research into applications, result- by current members in areas that plant responses to environmental system for tree biology. Carl was ing in 29 international patents. include research, education, men- the vice president and president Su-May has received a number toring, outreach, and professional continued on page 8 ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  7 ASPB AWARDS continued from page 7

Tuan-Hua David Ho Norman G. Lewis Gloria K. Muday Robert E. Sharp

stresses. He has an extensive and a leading plant science research Student Fellowship Committee distinguished record of ASPB institute. He has served ASPB (2005–2013), and by encouraging service, including as a member of as a monitoring editor for Plant his students to play active roles in the Program Committee (1994– Physiology (2005–2010) and as the Society. 1998), International Committee an active and effective member Christopher J. Staiger (1999–2008; chair, 2013–2016), of the Science Policy Committee and Corresponding Membership Purdue University, Lafayette, (2010–2014). Awards Committee (chair, 2001– Indiana 2005); editorial board member Chris is a leader in the plant Gloria K. Muday of Plant Physiology (1983–1992; cytoskeleton field and has made 1995–2001); ASPB representa- Wake Forest University, Winston- fundamental contributions to our tive to AAAS (1992–1994); and Salem, North Carolina understanding of the assembly president-elect, president, and Gloria is widely recognized for her and dynamics of actin, particu- immediate past president of ASPB work elucidating plant hormone Christopher J. Staiger larly relating to self-incompatibil- (2008–2011). biology, particularly the transport ity in pollen and plant–pathogen of auxin and the roles of auxin interactions. His contributions Norman G. Lewis Robert E. Sharp and other hormones in lateral root to ASPB include serving on the Washington State University, University of Missouri–Columbia Corresponding Membership development and gravitropism. Pullman Bob is internationally known for Award Committee (2004–2008) She has served ASPB in many Norman is a pioneer in the field his pioneering research on the and as a coeditor of The Plant Cell roles, including monitoring editor of plant lignin biosynthesis physiological mechanisms that de- (2005 to present). n of Plant Physiology (1998–2000), and, more broadly, an expert termine plant growth responses to in plant secondary metabolites elected member of the Executive water deficits, with a focus on root and metabolomics. He has a dis- Committee (2010–2013), and growth adaptation. Bob has served tinguished record of service to member of the Corresponding ASPB through various roles, in- plant biology through his work Membership Award Committee cluding monitoring editor of Plant on editorial boards and review (1994–1998 and 2007–2011; chair, Physiology (1992–1998), and the committees and as the director of 2008–2011). ASPB–Pioneer Hi-Bred Graduate

8  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 ASPB’s 2014 Women’s Young Investigator Travel Award Winners Announced

ach year, ASPB awards travel grants to attend the EPlant Biology annual meet- ing to early-career women inves- tigators through a competitive process. The goal of the Women’s Young Investigator Travel Award Beth Thompson (WYITA) program is to increase attendance of female investiga- tors who are within their first five years as an independent scientist in academia, industry, or govern- ment at the annual meeting by providing travel funds. Selection Maheshi Dassanayake Hongtao Liu is based on (1) the science and quality of the abstract submitted relative to the amount of time as a young investigator, (2) a statement describing why travel should be supported, and (3) fi- nancial need. Soledad Undurraga Seven women were selected this year. Each will receive a $1,000 award to support atten- dance at Plant Biology 2014 in Portland, Oregon. A list of the recipients and their abstract titles follows. Jeanmaire Molina Rashmi Sasidharan Maheshi Dassanayake Louisiana State University, Baton Jeanmaire Molina Beth Thompson Rouge Long Island University, Brooklyn, East Carolina University, Genome structures and transcrip- New York Greenville, North Carolina tomes signify evolutionary trajec- Possible loss of the chloroplast DICER-LIKE1 functions in maize tories for multi-ion salt tolerance genome in the parasitic flow- development ering plant Rafflesia lagascae Xuehua Zhong Hongtao Liu (Rafflesiaceae) Soledad F. Undurraga Shanghai Institute of Plant Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile Xuehua Zhong Physiology & Ecology, China Rashmi Sasidharan Transcriptome of maqui berry Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, Utrecht University, Netherlands Madison Cryptochrome 2, CIBs, and CO (Aristotelia chilensis): Towards a Mechanism of DNA methylation form a complex to regulate photo- Drownproofing: Novel molecular molecular understanding of the in plants periodic flowering mechanisms driving plant sur- biosynthesis and regulation of vival strategies in response to the anthocyanin pathway using Congratulations to each of the flooding stress extreme colored phenotypes 2014 WYITA winners. n ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  9 It’s All About the Science Previews of minisymposia that will be held in Portland

Light Signaling Pollen Fertilization Abiotic Stress Chair: Julin Maloof Chair: John Fowler Chair: Daphne Goring Chair: Mark Knight University of California, Davis Oregon State University, Corvallis University of Toronto, Canada Durham University, United Kingdom Floral Scents & Fruit Aroma Hormone Vascular Function & Chair: Florence Zakharov Chair: David Nelson Differentiation Mechanics of Pathogenics University of California, Davis University of Georgia, Athens Chair: Brian Ayre Chair: Wenbo Ma University of North Texas, Denton University of California, Riverside Environmental & Ecological Chloroplast Plant Physiology Chair: Alice Barkan Signaling Biochemistry to Chair: Lisa Ainsworth Oregon State University, Eugene Chair: Jeff Harper Biotechnology University of Illinois, Urbana University of Nevada, Reno Chair: Bryan Gibbon Transcriptional Networks & Baylor University, Waco, Texas Genome Editing Techniques Development Diverse Ubiquitin Roles Chair: Donald Weeks Chair: Siobhan Brady Chair: Judy Callis Specialized Metabolism University of Nebraska, Lincoln University of California, Davis University of California, Davis Chair: David Gang Washington State University, Root Development Pullman Chair: Ross Sozzani Hot Topics from North Carolina State University, …and some great fun—which you Emerging Scientists Raleigh don’t want to miss! Secretory Biology Chair: Federica Brandizzi Saturday, July 12 These minisymposia focus on presentations from early- Michigan State University, East Lansing career scientists, postdocs, and graduate students: New! Genomics Meet and Greet Coffee Biochemistry Hormone Chair: Katrien Devos (and Tea) Chair: Adrian Hegeman Chair: Lucia Strader University of Georgia, Athens 9:00 – 11:30 a.m. University of Minnesota, St. Washington University in Join this networking coffee to Paul St. Louis, Missouri Tree Biology Chair: Janice Cooke catch up and meet with col- Development Emerging Models University of Alberta, Canada leagues who share your scientific interests. A great way to get to Chair: Matt Evans Chair: Mark Belmonte know your fellow attendees on Carnegie Institution for Science University of Manitoba, Canada Motor Proteins opening morning! at Stanford University, Stanford, Chair: Ram Dixit California Cell Biology Washington University in St. Louis, Chair: David Ehrhardt Missouri Undergraduate Poster Stress Carnegie Institution for Science Session Chair: Todd Mockler at Stanford University, Stanford, Epigenetics 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. Chair: Blake Meyers Donald Danforth Plant Science California (Pre-reserve for a poster spot) University of Delaware, Newark Center, St. Louis, Missouri Visit the future of plant biology as undergraduates display their posters during this special session.

10  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 Undergraduates may move their The “Flipped” Classroom Science Policy Workshop the registration area. Find some posters to the exhibit/poster hall Teaching Strategy Plant Science Decadal new or old friends and head out after this event if an abstract was for dinner. A list of nearby restau- 7:45 – 10:00 p.m. submitted for the regular poster Vision…One Year Later rants will be posted at the dinner sessions. In “flipped” classes, students are 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. meet-up area. introduced to the course content The plant science community has Small Colleges/PUI Net- outside of class time using online been working toward address- How to Publish videos and web materials orga- working Event ing society’s looming challenges 7:45 – 10:00 p.m. nized by the instructor. Class time through the two-phase Plant 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. is spent on active learning; the Join representatives from The Science Research Summit (held Plant Cell and Plant Physiology edi- This workshop is targeted toward instructor clarifies difficult mate- in September 2011 and January scientists working at or interested rial and facilitates while students torial boards to learn what factors 2013) and the development of contribute to a successful paper. in PUIs who want to network, engage with in-class assignments, the Decadal Vision (released at discuss issues of common interest, projects, and discussions that There will be an opportunity to PB2013 in Providence). With fund- presubmit questions, as well as a find out about PUI-related oppor- promote achievement of learning ing from the U.S. Department of Q & A session after the presenta- tunities, and provide feedback on objectives. Attendance is free but Agriculture, the National Science tion. ASPB programs for PUIs. requires registration in advance. Foundation, the Department of Sponsored by the ASPB Education Energy, and the Howard Hughes Committee. The Key to Success Is....on New! Medical Institute, this process brought together representatives My Keychain Somewhere Science Party for Kids Career Adaptability: from across the full spectrum of at the Bottom of My Purse 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. How to Set Yourself Up for plant science. Now that the report 7:45 – 10:00 p.m. has been published, this work- (For kids 2–13, $15, register through a Changing Professional Nancy Ryan Gray, current director shop will provide an opportunity the Child Care registration system) for the Gordon Research Confer- Environment to learn about ASPB’s efforts to A fun-filled evening for your little ences, explains the lessons she 7:45 – 10:00 p.m. promote the Decadal Vision and ones while you are at the open- has learned in life about career how it is being used to advocate ing reception. Licensed child care Panelists will describe how they direction, work/life/family balance, for robust support for plant sci- providers will keep your child have navigated various paths to and navigating an ever-changing ence research, education, and entertained with science-related maneuver through their career. professional environment. Discussion topics will include men- funding. Join us for a discussion games and activities. torship, changing/gaining new of how you can contribute. ASPB Women in Plant Biology Committee–Sponsored Dinner Opening Mixer skill sets, creating collaborations, speaking influentially, and more. Mix and Mingle and Speaker 6:45 – 8:00 p.m. Sponsored by the ASPB Women in 11:20 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Light hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Plant Biology Committee. Next Generation You won’t want to miss this special lunchtime event. Sign up on-site Sequencing: Opportuni- Sunday, July 13 to have your resume reviewed; at- ties and Resources Monday, July 14 tend a 30-minute session on work- 7:45 – 10:00 p.m. ing in industry or academia; or just This workshop will provide New! New! get your lunch and join a table to resources and information on The Plant Cell and Plant The Plant Cell and Plant meet one of our speakers. how you can use next-generation Physiology Editors’ Physiology Editors’ sequencing for your plant biology Dinner Meet-Up project. Speakers with various Reception Networking Breakfast 7:30 p.m. levels of expertise in bioinfor- 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. If you are not planning to attend matics will briefly present their Join the editors of The Plant Cell Join the editors of The Plant Cell one of the evening events, drop experiences and then meet with and Plant Physiology along with and Plant Physiology along with by the dinner meet-up booth in attendees in a roundtable fashion the speakers from the afternoon the speakers from the morning to answer specific questions and symposium: 21st Century Grand symposium: 21st Century Grand Challenge: Feeding 9 Billion. Challenge: Feeding 9 Billion. continued on page 14 ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  11 Top Attractions in Portland

International Rose Test and college students with ID), world in an afternoon. The zoo is in the square every Monday from Garden $6.50; children 5 and younger, free. located in Washington Park, five 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., June–October. Northwest Third Avenue and minutes from downtown on High- Portland is home to the oldest Hours: Open 5 a.m.–midnight Everett Street way 26 West, or about 10 minutes official continuously operated daily, year-round. 503.228.8131 via MAX Light Rail (Blue or Red public rose test garden in the Admission: Free http://www.lansugarden.org line, Washington Park stop). United States. Each year, hundreds Bordered by Southwest Sixth of thousands of visitors from Oregon Museum of Sci- Hours: Open seven days a week, Avenue, Broadway, and Yamhill year-round. May–September, around the world enjoy the sights ence and Industry (OMSI) and Morrison Streets and scents of the garden. A popu- 8 a.m.–6 p.m.; September–May: http://thesquarepdx.org/ One of the nation’s leading science lar Portland Parks & Recreation 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Zoo grounds stay museums, OMSI is 219,000 square location, the garden’s spectacular open one hour after last entry feet of brain-powered fun! Five Pittock Mansion views and more than 8,000 roses time. A limited selection of ani- enormous halls bring science to life Nestled high in the West Hills of make it one of Portland’s most mals is on exhibit at 8 a.m. Portland, Pittock Mansion soars with hundreds of interactive exhib- Admission: Adults (12–64), $10.50; notable signature landmarks. 1,000 feet above the city’s skyline. its and displays. You can experience seniors (65+), $9; youth (3–11), Located in Washington Park. A century-old symbol of Portland’s an earthquake, take part in live $7.50; children 2 and younger, dramatic transformation from a Hours: Daily 7 a.m.–10 p.m. lab demonstrations, see a movie free. Visitors presenting proof of small lumber town to a bustling Admission: Free in the OMNIMAX Dome Theater, ex- MAX ridership receive $1.50 off city, it’s an architectural wonder. 400 S.W. Kingston Avenue plore the universe in a world-class tickets purchased at the gate. With picture-perfect views of riv- 503.823.3636 planetarium, and even tour a real Parking: $2/car. ers, forests, bridges, and moun- http://www.portlandparks.org/ submarine. Located on the east 4001 S.W. Canyon Road taintops—and 23 storied rooms parks/introsetestgarden.htm bank of the Willamette River. 503.226.1561 teeming with treasures—no http://www.oregonzoo.org Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:30 other place in town offers a more Lan Su Chinese Garden a.m.–5:30 p.m. A year-round wonder, the Lan Su breathtaking view and more re- Admission: Adults, $11; youth Pioneer Courthouse vealing glimpse of Portland’s past. Chinese Garden is an authentically (3–13), $9; seniors (63+), $9; chil- Square built Ming Dynasty–style garden. Hours: 11 a.m.–4 p.m. daily, Febru- dren 2 and younger, free. Located in the heart of downtown Covered walkways, bridges, open ary–June and September–Decem- Parking: $2/car. Portland, Pioneer Courthouse colonnades, pavilions, and a richly ber; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. daily in July 1945 S.E. Water Avenue Square is affectionately known planted landscape frame Zither and August. Closed major holidays 503.797.4000 as the city’s “living room.” Once a Lake, creating views that are never and all of January. http://www.omsi.edu grim parking structure, the square twice the same. This urban oasis is now a thriving urban park and Admission: Adults, $8; seniors of tranquil beauty and harmony, Oregon Zoo the single most-visited site in (65+), $7; youth (6–18), $5; chil- built by Suzhou artisans, will Trek through the tropics amid the Oregon, attracting more than dren 5 and younger, free. inspire and engage all who visit. sounds of birds, monkeys, and 9.5 million visitors annually. The 3229 N.W. Pittock Drive Public tours and audio tours are other creatures. You’re not in West square’s on-site resources include 503.823.3623 available, and a teahouse serving Africa; you’re in Portland at the the Travel Portland Visitor Informa- http://www.pittockmansion.org light snacks and traditional teas is zoo’s African Rain Forest exhibit. tion Center and TriMet’s bus and located within the garden. After you’ve survived the steamy light rail ticket office. The square Portland Art Museum Hours: April–October, 10 a.m.– tropics, dry off in the savanna, is also one of Portland’s leading Find out why the oldest museum 6 p.m.; November–March, 10 a.m.– where giraffes, rhinos, and hip- outdoor venues, hosting 300 in the Northwest, the Portland 5 p.m. pos graze. From the crest of the events each year, from large-scale Art Museum, is internation- Admission: Adults, $8.50; seniors Cascade Mountains to the coastal concerts to cultural festivals. The ally renowned for exciting art (62+), $7.50; students (ages 6–18 waters of Peru, travel around the Portland Farmers’ Market operates experiences. Located in the heart

12  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 of downtown’s cultural district, Portland Japanese Garden Portland Saturday Market Powell’s City of Books the museum’s campus includes Nestled in the scenic west hills of Enjoy a distinctive Portland From humble storefront begin- an outdoor sculpture court and Portland, above Washington Park, experience at the nation’s largest nings in 1971, Powell’s has grown historical interiors. Tour the world the Japanese Garden is a haven weekly open-air arts and crafts into a Portland landmark and one and travel through history in of tranquil beauty that has been market. Stroll down row upon row of the world’s great bookstores. magnificent permanent collection proclaimed one of the most au- of unique arts and crafts created Covering an entire city block, Pow- galleries, six stories of modern art, thentic Japanese gardens outside by the people who sell them. ell’s City of Books contains more and special exhibitions. Each Sun- Japan. Encompassing 5.5 acres Listen to live local music and than 1.5 million books in 3,500 day features activities for families. and five separate garden styles, enjoy a plethora of exotic foods different sections. Get a cup of joe Hours: Tuesday–Wednesday, the garden includes an authentic in our international food pavilion. at the in-store coffee shop, grab 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Thursday–Friday, Japanese teahouse, meander- Open rain or shine, Saturday from a map to the nine color-coded 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.– ing streams, intimate walkways, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday rooms, and lose yourself in the 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon–5 p.m. and an unsurpassed view of Mt. from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., March largest used and new bookstore Closed Mondays and major Hood. View events happening at through December 24. Located in on Earth. holidays. the Japanese Garden year-round. Waterfront Park (Naito Parkway at Hours: Open 9 a.m.–11 p.m., 365 Admission: Adults, $12; seniors Guided tours are included with Southwest Ankeny Street), at the days a year. (55+), $9; students (18+, with ID), cost of admission. Skidmore Fountain MAX station. Admission: Free $9; children 17 and under, free. Hours: April–September, 10 a.m.– Make a $25 purchase and receive 1005 W. Burnside Street Admission is free on the fourth 7 p.m. (except Monday, noon– a free TriMet ticket or a two-hour 503.228.4651 parking validation at any Smart Friday of every month from 5 p.m. 7 p.m.); October–March, 10 a.m.– http://www.powells.com n to 8 p.m. The museum also offers 4 p.m. (except Monday, noon– Park garage. four free Sundays a year (check 4 p.m.) Hours: Open rain or shine March– calendar). Admission: Adult, $9.50; seniors December 24. Saturday, 10 a.m.– 1219 S.W. Park Avenue (62+), $7.75; youth (6–17), $6.75; 5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.–.4:30 p.m. 503.226.2811 college students (with ID), $7.75; Admission: free http://www.portlandartmuseum. children 5 and younger, free. Southwest Ankeny Street and org 611 S.W. Kingston Avenue Naito Parkway 503.223.1321 503.222.6072 http://www.japanesegarden.com http://www.portlandsaturday market.com/

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  13 Portland’s MAX Light Rail Pick Up Your Free Pass at the Registration Desk!

ll registered attendees of using MAX Light Rail prior to pick- Instructions for Your Trip • The first train of the day arrives Plant Biology 2014 will ing up your pass, you may need to into Downtown Portland at PDX at 4:45 a.m. The last train Abe eligible to receive one purchase an adult ticket. Current departs PDX at 11:50 p.m. TriMet MAX Light Rail pass at rates are $2.50 for a two-hour via MAX Light Rail • The MAX Light Rail station and the conference registration desk ticket and $5 for an all-day ticket. The MAX Light Rail Red Line is the ticket machines are located located at the Oregon Convention easiest way to travel to and from the on the lower level, next to Center. Your MAX Light Rail pass For information on traveling from airport. Here are some quick facts: the south baggage claim area will be valid from July 12 through Portland International Airport (turn right at the base of the July 17. If you plan to travel from (PDX) to downtown Portland, • The trip between the airport escalator). Visit http://www. the airport via Light Rail only, buy please visit http://www.travel- and downtown Portland takes portofportland.com/PDX_Ter- a pass for your trip to the hotel portland.com/article/portland- about 38 minutes. minal_Map.aspx to view an and to the convention center. NO international-airport-pdx. • An adult ticket costs $2.50 airport map. n NEED TO BUY A LONGER PASS. For information on traveling (youth, $1.65; honored citizen, $1). MAX Light Rail ticket ma- MAX Light Rail is Portland’s effi- around Portland and schedule chines return change in coins, cient rail system that connects the information, please visit http:// so small bills are recommended. metro area, Portland Inter­national www.travelportland.com/article/ Airport, and the central city. To get max-light-rail. • You can roll your luggage on to the Oregon Convention Center board.

MINISYMPOSIA outside of academia. This workshop See Dr. Seuss’s classic illustration continued from page 11 aims to help PhD students and Tuesday, July 15 art from The Cat in the Hat, Green researchers to first decide which World Forestry Center Eggs and Ham, Yertle the Turtle, and offer their advice and suggestions. particular career areas would suit The Lorax, as well as early maga- Sponsored by the ASPB Member- their interests and skills. It is found- Party zine covers, advertising pieces, ship Committee. ed on a recognized career theory 8:30 – 11:30 p.m. war commentary, his whimsical and provides a framework in which The traditional party on the final unorthodox taxidermy, and an Your Research Career— participants are able to map their night of the meeting, with music, amazing assortment of larger- What Next? own preferences on to particular dancing, and food, will be at the than-life bronze sculptures! n 7:45 – 10:00 p.m. job types and environments. World Forestry Center.

Sarah Blackford, Society for Experi- At the end of the workshop, each During our party, there will be a mental Biology participant will receive a com- special exhibit celebrating the life Many career workshops focus on prehensive list of resources to and art of Theodor Seuss Geisel. providing information on the range help them find out more about This exhibit chronicles Dr. Seuss’s of jobs PhD students and research- job vacancies and associated life and career with a focus on the ers could consider as their future information. common artistic links throughout career path—whether within or his nearly 70 years of creativity.

14  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 Section News

ASPB Midwestern Section Annual Meeting Report BY EDGAR CAHOON ASPB Midwestern Section Chair, University of Nebraska

he 2014 Midwestern Ohio State University. Ulhas The best graduate student poster third place. The best postdoctoral Section annual meeting Kadam from Purdue University winner was a tie between Dalen talk winners were Jie Qu, The Twas held March 22–23 also gave a presentation on the Fultz and Joy-El Talbot, both Ohio State University; Kengo at the Fawcett Center on The ASPB Ambassador program. The from The Ohio State University, Morohashi, The Ohio State Ohio State University campus in scientific program on March 22 and the third-place graduate University; and Rucha Karve, Columbus. It was a very success- concluded with a highly interac- student poster winner was Sarah Purdue University. Among the ful meeting with 158 registrants, tive poster session. Section Chair Hutchinson, from Southern prizes were gift certificates from 34 oral and 64 poster presenta- Edgar Cahoon brought the meet- Illinois University–Edwardsville. local coffee house Boston Stoker tions, and representation rang- ing to an end on March 23 with a Avery Tucker from Ohio and local tea house ZenCha Tea ing from Nebraska to Ohio. The thank you to meeting organizer University gave the top-placing Salon. meeting offered high-quality talks Patrice Hamel from The Ohio undergraduate student talk, At the business meeting on given by graduate and under- State University and the awarding and acknowledgments for their March 22, St. Louis was chosen graduate students, postdoctoral of best undergraduate and gradu- excellent oral presentations were as the host location for the 2015 associates, and one new faculty ate student talks and posters and conveyed to Sean Fenstemaker Section meeting, with incom- member, Anna Dobrista from best postdoctoral talks. and Taylor DeBrosse, both of ing section chair Darron Luesse The Ohio State University. The top graduate student talk Ohio University. The best under- and Dmitri Nusinow from the The agenda included a keynote winner was a tie between Heejin graduate poster winner was a Danforth Center serving as local presentation by Jay Hollick from Yoo from Purdue University tie between Brooke Anderson, organizers. The venue for the The Ohio State University and and Dominic Petrella from The The Ohio State University, and meeting will be forthcoming. We featured presentations by Marta Ohio State University. Wen Dong Megan Moore, Ohio University, hope to see many old and new Laskowski from Oberlin College from The Ohio State University and Benjamin Julius, Truman faces in St. Louis next year! n and R. Keith Slotkin from The won third place in this category. State University, was awarded

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ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  15 Section News

78th ASPB Northeastern Section Annual Meeting Report BY ALISON ROBERTS, Conference Chair, University of Rhode Island and SUBHASH C. MINOCHA, ASPB Northeastern Section Secretary/Treasurer, University of New Hampshire

he 78th annual meeting Environment and Life Sciences, Committee followed the banquet. Northeastern University, Boston, of the Northeast Section University of Rhode Island, read The meeting was reconvened Massachusetts. Tof the American Society by Alison Roberts. The keynote March 30 for a continental A panel of 10 judges selected of Plant Biologists (NEASPB) symposium featured talks by breakfast and a morning session the best student posters and was held March 29–30 in the three invited speakers: “Evolution of 11 contributed talks, includ- contributed talks. The winners

Center for Biotechnology and of C4 Photosynthesis,” by Rowan ing four presented by graduate for best graduate student posters Life Sciences at the University of Sage from the University of students and one presented by were Sydney Shaw, Northeastern Rhode Island in Kingston, Rhode Toronto; “Evolution of Flowering an undergraduate student. The University; Tess Scavuzzo- Island. Alison Roberts (chair, Time in Seasonally Cold-Adapted business meeting was held before Duggan, University of Rhode NEASPB, University of Rhode Grasses,” by Jill Preston from the the mid-session coffee break and Island; and Hesham Abdullah, Island) organized the meeting of University of Vermont, and “Red was chaired by Alison Roberts. University of Massachusetts which the theme was “Evolution Algal Parasites: The Genomic Secretary/Treasurer, Subhash Amherst. Judith Hoskins, of Physiological Processes.” The Consequences of Going Rogue,” Minocha, read reports on the University of New Hampshire, 108 participants, included under- by Chris Lane from the University 2013 meeting and status of funds. received the award for the best graduate and graduate students, of Rhode Island. Keynote talks Copies of a new constitution undergraduate poster. Noreen postdocs, and faculty from col- were followed by a reception and bylaws were distributed, and Rizvi, Northeastern University, leges and universities across the and poster session featuring 40 members were notified that a received the award for the best Northeast region, including New posters, including 21 presented vote to approve them would be student oral presentation. York, New Jersey, Connecticut, by graduate students and 11 by conducted via e-mail. Page Owen, ASPB and the University Massachusetts, Rhode Island, undergraduate students. Connecticut College, and Peter of Rhode Island College of the Vermont, Maine, and New After a book raffle, courtesy of Melcher, Ithaca College, were Environment and Life Sciences Hampshire. Sinauer and Associates, attendees nominated and elected to the generously supported the meet- The meeting opened March adjourned to the University Club Executive Committee. Carolyn ing. Donations to the Student 29 with a greeting from Dean for a banquet dinner. A meet- Lee-Parsons invited the section Travel Fund are gratefully John Kirby, College of the ing of the NEASPB Executive to hold its 79th annual meeting at acknowledged. n

Laura Van Beaver, a sophomore in Subhash Minocha’s lab at the University of New Hampshire, explaining her project on the “Production of decaffeinated tea by genetic engineering” to attendees. An overview of the poster session at the meeting. 16  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 Section News

ASPB Southern Section Annual Meeting Report BY KENT CHAPMAN ASPB Southern Section Representative, University of North Texas

he 2014 meeting of the from undergraduates. The Kriton winners from the large field of the of plant science research for 126 Southern Section of ASPB Hatzios Symposium featured undergraduate poster competition registered attendees. The program Twas held in Lexington, three terrific speakers on the were as follows: first place, Kevin pages are available at http://www. Kentucky, March 29–31. Rickie general theme of plant–microbe Mutore, University of North Texas; SS-ASPB.org. Next year’s meeting Turley, secretary/treasurer, in interactions. Plenary speakers second place, Taylor Marshall, features a return to the wonder- cooperation with local hosts Joe were Carl Fellbaum (graduate University of North Georgia; ful Dauphin Island Marine Lab Chappell and Bob Houtz, both student from Heike Bucking’s and third place, Ashley Strother, near Mobile, Alabama, with from the University of Kentucky, group) from South Dakota State University of South Carolina secretary/treasurer–elect, Ken organized an excellent meeting. University; Stan Faeth, from the Aiken. Thanks in large part to the Korth, University of Arkansas, as Jay Shockey presided as chair University of North Carolina at active participation and financial organizer and Tim Sherman and and Ashlee McCaskill served as Greensboro; and Julia Frugoli, support from the University of Kelly Major, University of South vice chair in putting together this from Clemson University. Kentucky, the meeting was a great Alabama, serving as local hosts. n year’s thematic symposium. In an exceptionally competitive success, offering a diverse array The meeting enjoyed support field, the winners of the graduate from 24 colleges, universities, and student oral competition were as government laboratories from follows: first place, James Shaffer, 11 states in the southern region. University of Kentucky; second There were 23 oral presentations, place, Richard Sante, Eastern including 16 graduate student oral Tennessee State University; and presentations, and 47 participants third place, Ipeleng Randome, presented posters, including 13 University of Arkansas. The

Kevin Mutore (right), winner of the undergraduate poster competition, pictured with Jay Shockey (left), 2014 SS-ASPB chair. PHOTO BY STEPHEN BANKS.

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  17 Where Are They Now?

As the years churn on, many esteemed members of ASPB have passed the torch to their younger colleagues and stepped out of the limelight to allow others to bask in its glory. Yet, many continue their good works to the benefit of plant biology and the world. Edited by Beth Gantt, University of Maryland, “Where Are They Now?” is part of the ASPB News suite of columns focused on the personal and scientific life and insights of ASPB members at all stages of their career. This column offers a look into the current activities of influen- tial members of ASPB who continue to make a positive mark on our Society. We hope you all enjoy this addition to your newsletter. Please feel free to submit your own article to “Luminaries,” “Membership Corner,” or “Where Are They Now?” For details please contact me, David Horvath, Membership Committee chair, at [email protected]. As always, we are open to suggestions for articles or features of interest to readers of the ASPB News. Enjoy!

Machi F. Dilworth, NSF (Ret.) and Gregory L. Dilworth, DOE (Ret.)

loha from the Big Island as photosynthesis, cell and grow ornamental of Hawaii! It has been 11 wall biochemistry, plant plants and fruit trees. Ayears since Greg Dilworth growth and development, Unfortunately, this plan retired and almost two years and biotechnology. EB also did not materialize due since I (Machi Dilworth) retired. supported basic research to legal complications. A couple of years ago, someone in microbial biology as- From 2007 to 2010, I hesitantly inquired if Greg was sociated with converting served as the head of the still among the living. Yes, Greg plant products to useful NSF Tokyo office. Greg is alive and well, and I am nicely chemicals. It supported the joined me in Tokyo. He adjusting to a life of retirement. brightest scientists inter- explored the countryside ested in energy-relevant by car, and although not Greg topics by providing them conversant in Japanese, Greg took an early retirement long-term support when he became very adept from his job as program manager warranted. Much of the at reading maps. Prior for Energy Biosciences (EB) at research supported by to my return to NSF in the DOE. Many ASPB members EB built a foundation for Arlington, we bought a will remember Bob Rabson, who today’s exploding research house on the dry, west was the founding director for EB. on biofuels. Greg with two grandsons, Frankie and Robbie. side of the Big Island Bob hired Greg in 1985. Although But soon after Bob’s of Hawaii, where Greg the EB’s program budget was retirement in 1995, there were the opportunity. He left DOE in relearned bachelor living while I relatively small then, it played a some major personnel changes spring 2003 with a sense of quiet continued working at NSF. One critical role in supporting funda- in the leadership of DOE that satisfaction that over the course of Greg’s primary commitments mental plant sciences. The DOE’s had an impact on the direction, of his 18 years there, he had tried is caregiver to our grandchildren policies and practices in those priorities, and operations of EB. It to do right by the science and the when they visit. We have four days were such that Bob and Greg became increasingly difficult for scientific community. now—11, 7, 3, and 1. Our oldest had much discretion in setting Greg to manage the EB program When Greg retired, he knew grandson has spent every summer the direction for the program in ways that he believed best exactly what he wanted to do. He with us since 2008, and his broth- and in making funding deci- for advancing basic science in wanted to live in a warm climate er since 2012, something only sions. Greg firmly believed that support of bioenergy production. near a large body of water and do retired grandparents are able to a complete understanding of the Continual bickering with the some farming. After some years offer. Greg has recently signed up basic biology of plants was a pre- department’s leadership became of searching around the country to audit a class at the University of requisite to the full development so stressful that Greg’s health for a place to spend his retire- Hawaii at Hilo in the fundamen- of bio-based renewable resources. began to suffer. When DOE ment life, he settled on a piece tals of drawing. The university EB focused strategically on areas offered an early retirement option of land on the wet (east) side of had a hard time classifying him, of basic plant research that were as part of a downsizing exercise in the Big Island of Hawaii. Our but he is officially a freshman directly relevant to energy, such December 2002, Greg jumped at original plan was to build a house with an undeclared major. As you

18  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 Where Are They Now?

can see, Greg has accomplished ence research who served as chief able potential as an institution his goal of retirement: doing what scientist and panel managers in of higher learning. I am begin- he wants to do, wherever and building a competitive grants pro- ning to think that EPSCoR and whenever he wants to do it. gram at USDA. EPSCoR-type programs need a For the last five years of my significant overhaul. With more Machi NSF career, I was not directly than half the states now being I retired from NSF in June 2012. involved in biology. Nevertheless, classified as EPSCoR-eligible, a My career as a government I had unique and rewarding expe- one-size-fits-all approach prob- research administrator spans riences. Being head of the NSF ably won’t accomplish the goals of over 33 years—24 years at NSF Tokyo office carries an official the EPSCoR programs. and nine years at the USDA diplomatic status. I enjoyed all In addition to UHH work, I Competitive Research Grants the privileges of a diplomat, such have also served on a committee Office, the predecessor of the as invitations to events hosted of the National Research Council National Institute of Food and or attended by the emperor and studying USDA’s competitive Agriculture and the Agriculture empress of Japan. Upon my research grants program and and Food Research Initiative. I return from Tokyo, I temporarily A drawing of a pineapple from participated in ASPB’s vision- started my career at NSF in 1979 served as deputy assistant direc- their yard by Machi. ing activity that produced the as assistant program director for tor for Mathematical and Physical report Unleashing a Decade of developmental biology. Mary Science (MPS)—a real depar- thoughts after that. Unlike Greg, I Innovation in Plant Science: A Clutter, program director for de- ture for me that gave me much did not have a clear vision of what Vision for 2015–2025. I receive velopmental biology at the time, personal satisfaction. I found my retirement life should be. I a fair number of inquiries and hired me. It was my great fortune that my scientific knowledge was did not completely eliminate the requests for advice from my old that I had Dr. Clutter as a mentor/​ sufficiently broad to be able to possibility of getting a full-time colleagues and researchers, and supervisor and that my more relate to the MPS and that my position. At a minimum, I wanted I try to respond as best as I can. than 30-year career coincided administrative abilities and expe- to be involved in some way These activities take about a quar- with the extraordinary period of rience were applicable directly to with the scientific or academic ter of my time and have helped growth in the biological sciences managing NSF’s largest director- community. I felt, and still feel, me ease into a life of retirement and plant science in particular. ate. My last assignment, director a sense of debt to the scientific by enabling me to stay connected The advent of molecular biology, of the Office of International research and education commu- with my preretirement world. biotechnology, genomics, and Science and Engineering, exposed nity, especially the plant science After my retirement, I did information science kept push- me to a myriad of interna- community, which provided acquire a new hobby—botani- ing the frontiers of science and tional activities in which NSF is support, advice, and encourage- cal drawing. It was something I spawning new industries along involved. A highlight was to learn ment throughout my career. always wanted to learn but never the way. For simply being at the about NSF’s role in managing the Since retirement, I have been had the time for. Last February, right place at the right time, I was U.S. research bases in Antarctica, serving as a part-time consul- I found a two-week workshop given amazing opportunities to be including a visit to the McMurdo tant to the chancellor of The on botanical illustration held at involved in initiating, developing, and the South Pole stations. All in University of Hawaii at Hilo the National Tropical Botanical or managing a number of new all, I consider my career as being (UHH), helping UHH’s transi- Garden (NTBG) on the Island of programs and initiatives that have one big, wonderful ride. tion from a teaching university Kauai. I was very apprehensive in had a major impact on plant sci- I had always wondered how to a teaching/research university. the beginning but became quickly ences, including the postdoctoral people knew when to retire. My There are some excellent faculty comfortable as I found that my research fellowships in plant biol- retired colleagues and friends and strong research programs knowledge of plant anatomy and ogy, the DOE/NSF/USDA Joint told me that you would just know at UHH. It has several innova- development helped me to accu- Programs in Plant Sciences, the when it is time, and they were tive outreach programs aimed rately draw plants. Also, my poor Arabidopsis Genome Projects, right. That time came to me when at its very diverse student body. sense of color is not an issue in followed by the Arabidopsis I spent the Thanksgiving holiday Working with a small institution botanical drawing, since all I have 2010 Project, the Plant Genome of 2011 with our family in Hawaii. in an EPSCoR (Experimental to do is faithfully match the color Research Program, and iPlant. In early 2012, I informed a small Program to Stimulate of the subject. While at USDA (1981‒1989), number of people at NSF about Competitive Research) state has This February, I attended I had the opportunity to work my intention to retire at the end given me insight into its struggles the same workshop again at the with leading figures in plant sci- of June, and I never had second in trying to realize its consider- continued on page 20 ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  19 People

From Around the Web

The past few months have seen related to photosynthetic effi- (http://1.usa.gov/1hR6qr1). The also identifies the development of the publication of several impor- ciency, nitrogen use efficiency, preliminary materials released by more resilient crop varieties as a tant reports that touch upon plant aluminum tolerance, salin- the Nobel Prize–winning IPCC critical component of the adaptive science. The first was Genetic ity tolerance, pest and disease argue that climate change will responses that the world’s govern- Modification Science Update, a re- resistance, and phosphate use exacerbate global security issues ments must undertake. At the port released on March 14, 2014, efficiency have created enormous due to increased competition for time of the writing of this article, commissioned by the United scientific potential to improve natural resources, food insecurity, the full IPCC report has yet to be Kingdom’s (UK) Council for crops. Further, they call for the and extreme weather. released. IPCC member govern- Science and Technology (http:// improvement of the EU regula- The report, a comprehensive ments are expected to approve the bit.ly/1oOGrtj). The purpose tory environment through the assessment, is the culmination of report by the end of April 2014. of the document, which was adoption of a “product- rather several years’ effort by hundreds In other news, ASPB member coauthored by ASPB member than process-based” assessment of experts from around the globe. Graham Farquhar and his colleague Jonathan Jones of the Sainsbury framework and that the approval “Preventing dangerous interfer- Richard Richards received the Laboratory, was to provide an up- of commercial cultivation of GM ence with the climate system 2014 Rank Prize in Nutrition “for date on recent scientific develop- crops be handled at the national entails mitigating climate change,” pioneering the understanding of ments and advise the UK Prime level. Finally, the report calls on said Ottmar Edenhofer, cochair of isotope discrimination in plants Minister on genetic engineering the UK government to create one the report’s working groups. and its application to breed wheat technology. a new translational research “On a transparent scientific basis, varieties that use water more The report addressed two program to facilitate the transfer our report provides an under- efficiently” (http://bit.ly/1qkl1l8). areas: the evidence regarding of basic research findings to appli- standing of the available options Awarded biennially by the Rank the costs and benefits of geneti- cations in the field. to meet this challenge.” With Prize Fund, a charitable organi- cally modified (GM) organism The other major report, regard to plant science, the report zation, the Rank Prize “seeks to and what might be done to raise Climate Change 2014: Impacts, concludes that “based on many recognize excellence in specific the quality of debate, decision Adaptation, and Vulnerability, studies covering a wide range fields of research and reward inno- making, and regulation within the Intergovernmental Panel on of regions and crops, negative vators for their dedication and the UK and European Union Climate Change’s (IPCC) fifth impacts of climate change on crop outstanding contribution.” n (EU). The report’s authors argue assessment report, focused on yields have been more common that recent identification of genes the impacts of climate change than positive impacts.” The report

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? get much better than this. Perhaps hand in supporting. We feel opti- Hawaii. We know that it is a long continued from page 19 I should have done this while I mistic about the future knowing way to travel and that it is not was working. It would have helped that people we recruited, like Jane easy for working people to spare NTBG. This is the garden that was me maintain a better work–life Silverthorne at NSF and Sharlene the chunk of time needed to fully used in the movie Jurassic Park, balance and made me a better role Weatherwax at DOE, are doing appreciate a place like Hawaii. We and it is full of exotic tropical model to my younger colleagues. a tremendous job for the causes hope our friends and colleagues plants. As I sat in the classroom Both Greg and I remain inter- dear to our hearts. Truth be will find their way to Hawaii one drawing to my heart’s content and ested in science in our retirement. told, we do miss our friends and way or the other. When you do, taking walks through the tropical Our rewards now are to read colleagues back on the mainland. please be sure to look us up. n paradise-like grounds, I found about the great advances coming We would love a chance to intro- myself thinking that life does not from scientists whom we had a duce them to the Big Island of

20  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 Science Policy

Science Policy Committee Meets in Washington, D.C. BY TYRONE SPADY ASPB Legislative and Public Affairs Director

arch 25, 2014, National Given the challenges facing the Ag Day, marked the nation and the scientific opportu- M100th birthday of nities before us, ASPB’s funding Norman Borlaug, one of the most recommendations for FY2015 are prominent plant scientists of the as follows: 20th century and father of the • NSF: $7.6 billion Green Revolution. To commemo- • DOE Basic Energy Sciences rate the day, the U.S. Congress (Office of Science [SC]): $1.8 and the state of Iowa unveiled billion a statue of Borlaug in National • DOE Biological and Statuary Hall of the U.S. Capitol, Environmental Research (SC): where each state is allowed two $628 million slots. (The statue of Borlaug joins • USDA Agriculture and Food Samuel Jordan Kirkwood, known Research Initiative: $383 million as Iowa’s Civil War Governor.) • USDA Agricultural Research ASPB, who was there along with Service: $1.28 billion several other agriculture-related • NIH: Sustained growth and advocacy groups, took advantage increased support for plant of Washington’s momentary focus science research. on all things agriculture and held its annual Science Policy Meeting As part of our Congressional and Congressional Visit Day. Visit Day, ASPB held 26 congres- The focus of the ASPB sional meetings with offices congressional visits was to representing Iowa, Michigan, discuss, within the context of the New York, Minnesota, Missouri, fiscal year (FY) 2015 appropria- Mississippi, and Washington. tions process, the importance of Within most congressional sustained annual investment in offices, our funding recommen- the federal agencies that support dations were well received. Our ASPB Science Policy Committee Chair Pat Schnable poses plant science research and the meetings also included the Senate in front of the newly installed statue of Norman Borlaug. importance of plant science to Agriculture and Appropriations the economic well-being of the Committees (Commerce, Justice, state and district of the members and Science Appropriations of Congress with whom we Subcommittees) and the House Finally, Science Policy roundtable, an intimate event, met. Additionally, we discussed Science Committee. It was in the Committee (SPC) Chair Pat provided several staffers with the how plant biology provides the latter that we learned of House Schnable and Plant Summit II opportunity to have an in-depth foundation for advancement in Science Committee Chairman cochair David Stern were joined dialogue on the Decadal Vision agriculture and the bio-economy, Lamar Smith’s consideration of by Rod Williamson (Iowa Corn and the political issues surround- mitigation of the impacts of holding a hearing on GMOs in Promotion Board [ICPB]) to ing modern agriculture. climate change, and development the coming months. (ASPB staff participate in a roundtable Prior to the congressional of new medicinal compounds and Lewis-Burke, our govern- discussion hosted by the House visits, ASPB’s SPC met with representatives from several involved in the treatment and ment relations contractor, will Modern Agriculture Caucus and other important organizations. prevention of diseases (Decadal explore opportunities to work Congressman Adrian Smith of Vision; http://bit.ly/1kNedsW). together on this issue.) Nebraska’s second district. The continued on page 22 ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  21 Science Policy

Policy Update BY LAUREN BROCCOLI Lewis-Burke Associates, LLC

President’s FY2015 FY2015 budget and federal agen- created an implementation team soliciting additional nominees Budget Request cies are testifying before commit- composed of key subcabinet of- representative of industry. It is The president released his bud- tees in a collective effort to pass ficials and experts. This team is unclear when the final board will get request for fiscal year (FY) appropriations legislation before charged with executing programs be announced. 2015 in March. With the $1.014 the start of the 2015 fiscal year on and carrying out mandated re- budget cap in place, the request October 1st. While motivation to forms to existing programs. In an NSF Personnel Changes was similar to last year, with most pass appropriations bills is high, effort to keep the public informed On April 2, France Córdova was the House and Senate are expect- agencies relatively flat or with of the entire implementation pro- officially sworn in as the new NSF ed to have major differences with cess, USDA launched a new web- moderate increases compared to director, months after being offi- respect to prioritizing funding site (http://tinyurl.com/mqw26zz) FY2014. The National Science cially nominated for the position. within the confines of the spend- dedicated to Farm Bill implemen- Foundation (NSF) would be up The Biological Sciences (BIO) ing cap. Support for science and tation and progress. Additionally, 1.2%, the Department of Energy Directorate will also see some (DOE) Basic Energy Sciences technology funding remains high, the agency has hosted 12 outreach personnel changes in the coming up 5.5%, DOE Biological and but significant funding increases and listening sessions to commu- months. Jane Silverthorne, former Environmental Research up 3%, are not expected, as Congress will nicate updates and information division director for integrative U.S. Department of Agriculture’s have to stick to the budget cap. on the bill and foster dialogue and organismal systems, was (USDA) Agriculture and Food from stakeholders throughout the Research Initiative up 2.9%, USDA’s Farm Bill Implementation implementation process. named BIO’s new deputy direc- Agricultural Research Service On April 3, Agriculture Secretary The new Foundation for Food tor, taking the place of Joann down 1.6%, and the National Tom Vilsack highlighted USDA’s and Agriculture Research (FFAR), Roskoski, who retired from NSF Institutes of Health up 0.7%. progress in implementing the authorized in the Farm Bill, is also at the end of March. Finally, the At time of writing, the appro- Agricultural Act of 2014 (Farm moving forward. The National search to replace BIO assistant priations process is in full swing Bill), which was signed into law Academies has solicited nominees director John Wingfield is under as congressional committees hold by President Obama on February for the FFAR Board, and USDA way. Wingfield will leave NSF in hearings on President Obama’s 7. Following enactment, USDA issued a federal register notice September 2014. n

SCIENCE POLICY COMMITTEE director for the NSF Directorate Society might increase its engage- who were able to provide grow- continued from page 21 of Biological Sciences. She ment with the Foundation. Then ers’ perspectives on the Decadal The first among them was Jane provided an update on various the committee was joined by Rob Vision and expressed interest Silverthorne, who was recently NSF programs and discussed Williamson (ICPB) and Craig Hill in future opportunities to work promoted to deputy assistant opportunities in which the (Iowa Farm Bureau Federation), together. n

22  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 Education Forum

“Wicked Good” Outreach in Boston ASPB @ National Science Teachers Association Annual Meeting 2014 BY SCOTT WOODY, University of Wisconsin–Madison, and KATIE ENGEN, ASPB Education Coordinator

cience educators visiting the served as our volunteers had no Society’s booth during the agenda but to share the science SNational Science Teachers with other educators. This key Association (NSTA) annual element was much appreciated meeting in Boston (April 3–6) by the conference attendees. The enjoyed a wide selection of plant free resources/no-sales-pitch biology materials to meet their approach created great opportu- individual teaching needs. Booth nities for in-depth interactions resources included items from related to plant biology and ASPB (http://www.aspb.org/edu- scientific teaching. cation) as well as Scott Woody’s FPsc (Fast Plants, self-compatible; What distinguished NSTA 2014 http://www.fpsc.wisc.edu) genet- from our other annual outreach ics education resource, math and booths to science educators? nutrition activities from Suzanne NSTA covers all sciences, so it’s plants and the related Mating Given the hundreds of exhibi- Cunningham (http://tinyurl.com/ not just biologists visiting the Game (http://tinyurl.com/ tors and thousands of educators CunninghamNSTA2014), and the booth. For 2014, I’d say there MatingGameSW). in the exhibit hall each day, Back Yard Mystery program from was a synergy between our More generally speaking, we would you say our resources Peggy Lemaux (http://ucbiotech. materials and attendee demand always get a lot of high school were well received? org/resources). that allowed for some healthy teachers needing help, from basic Absolutely. We were so busy that I Beyond the value of receiv- cross-curricular integration. biology to AP. And K–5 teach- noticed with alarm late on the first ing free, quality resources, NSTA For example, math is integrated ers always like the 12 Principles day that I had already distributed participants also benefited from into the FPsc curriculum, and of Plant Biology bookmarks and almost two-thirds of the seed stocks conversations with the ASPB Suzanne Cunningham’s math and related inquiry-oriented hand- I brought with me and was down to members who volunteered in nutrition activities (see URLs outs. This year, many middle just a handful of trifold brochures the booth. Scott Woody, ASPB above) opened doors so our visi- school teachers were especially from the 100+ I had brought. Education Committee member, tors could see how plant science eager to find pedagogically sound Fortunately, I could restock to some has organized quite a few of the works in other areas. Materials ways to bring plants into their extent. And of course our other Society’s outreach booths in developed by Peggy Lemaux and science curriculum. They tend to resources were popular as well. Not recent years. Here Scott responds Barbara Alonso (also see URLs “love plants” but don’t know how surprisingly, items toward the back to a few questions about the above) referencing bacteria and to teach with them. After visiting of the booth moved more slowly. particular successes of this event. viruses as well as plant science us, many planned to adopt entire And since many NSTA attendees had the same effect. programs like FPsc, and others return to our booth each year, the What is the impression you hope were happy to get classroom- same happened with some of our every ASPB booth visitor took Who came to the booth? Which ready handouts such as Genes in “old favorites.” Overall, folks took home from NSTA? audience found it the most useful? Your Jeans and Phyllotaxis and what we were offering, but not in The ASPB booth stood out in the Well, I did get to share FPsc Fibonacci, or the My Life as a the frantic, “stuff the bag” way you exhibit hall as an oasis of well- with Bill Nye the Science Guy Plant coloring and activity book often see at these events. I’d say they grounded science and science and his teacher entourage when to build on what they already are were pretty thoughtful and appre- education, offering hands-on they stopped by the booth on doing. (All these and more are ciative about what they were taking. activities and quality discussions. Thursday. He seemed quite favor- available for free at http://www. The practicing scientists who ably inclined toward both the aspb.org/education.) continued on page 24 ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  23 Education Forum

WICKED GOOD continued from page 23 Insights from a Veteran

Did you notice any other ben- and a First-Time Volunteer efits to ASPB sponsoring this outreach event? Suzanne Cunningham is a sea- the various lessons I think the volunteers got a lot out soned outreach veteran who has available to high of the experience. Not only did energized many ASPB events. school teachers. they interact with the teachers, Here is a snapshot of her busy day Quite a few middle they got to thoroughly understand in the booth: school teachers Back Yard Mystery—solved! the resources ASPB offers in the Visitors were very attracted to wanted touse Scott’s PHOTO BY BARBARA ALONSO booth. This led to richer discus- the plants! Hundreds of times we mutants in some simple sions with conference participants were explaining that the plants Mendelian genetics experiments. and a better overall understanding are a special cross between the We also were visited by education Educators for many grade levels of science education and outreach, Wisconsin Fast Plants and another directors from large education scooped up the [12 Principles of for our volunteers. By getting Brassica species. [We were] quite districts in Ohio, Georgia, and Plant Biology] bookmarks and involved in this kind of outreach, busy showcasing the plants and Florida. the CDs with 12 lab protocols. our volunteers either enjoy a really My Sweet Math and Where’s the great outlet for their considerable Starch? displays went over quite expertise or learn that with a bit well with elementary through of practice they can develop the ninth-grade teachers. Sweet Math skills needed for effective science posters vanished by late after- communication and networking noon. Teachers commented that in the context of science educa- my bottle models and the linked tion. Also, the volunteers’ enthu- sugar packets that “graph” volume siasm for what they are sharing worked as terrific visuals. I had is an additional validation of the corn, sorghum, and various bean resources ASPB promotes. continued on page 26

Adán (right) shares FPsc with an interested visitor. PHOTO BY SUZANNE ASPB’s Outstanding Outreach Volunteers CUNNINGHAM Scott Woody, University of Wisconsin–Madison Suzanne Cunningham, Purdue University Adán Colón-Carmona, University of Massachusetts Boston Barbara Alonso, UC Berkeley Robin Hoskins, Harvard University Dennis Mathews, University of New Hampshire Irvin Pan, Stonehill College David des Marais, Harvard University Clara Levy, University of New Hampshire Katie Greenham, Dartmouth College Ludmila Tyler, University of Massachusetts Amherst Chip (John) Celenza, Boston University

Irvin welcomes the next generation of plant science educators. PHOTO BY Sanda Zolj, Boston University SUZANNE CUNNINGHAM

24  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 Education Forum

Walk the Talk Taking Strides for Professional Growth BY KATIE ENGEN ASPB Education Coordinator

our campus may have How long have you been devel- those topics needed? Or did We advertise with all our a teaching and learning oping this model? walkers usually come ready to other programs at the begin- center (TLC) or offer talk? ning of the semester and send Y I started doing it in spring 2011. professional development (PD) out weekly reminders in Next I always have these topics ready modules to help you enhance Week at Wake. to go: (1) getting students to your teaching experiences and Does it work as intended? Are participate and/or do the readings, your students’ learning outcomes. there any unintended conse- (2) using groups in class, and (3) • Did you fund this just with If so, you surely will benefit from quences that are particularly grading. But people always show staff already in your center? contacting its consultants. But positive or negative? up wanting to talk, so I rarely need There was no funding needed. maybe you lack the time right It does work as intended when to prime the pump. I also run a I am a walker, so I just invited now to consider the center’s re- people show up—but it has not midcareer faculty retreat where people to join me. We did give sources properly. Or maybe your been easy to find times that allow folks all read the same book before out pedometers once, as a kick- campus doesn’t offer such things people to show up! This past attending the retreat and we do off to the semester. However, and you need a place to start. In semester [fall 2013], I moved it walking book discussions as well. it didn’t seem to increase the either case, starting small can lead from afternoons to mornings and number of people who showed to bigger things. The TLC at Wake had no one show up all semester, Did the quality of the discussions up, nor did it ensure that Forest University offers one such so I will go back to afternoons in meet expectations? Did they tend those who received pedom- small step for change. the spring. to become “complaint/worry ses- eters continued to come, so I Pedometers & Pedagogy sions” or were they more of a pro- wouldn’t do that again. How do the numbers look? How active, solutions-oriented focus? Catherine Ross is Wake Forest’s many participants? How many If negativity was a problem of any TLC director. She devised • Did you ever focus on par- return regularly? At any point significance, what tips would you Pedometers & Pedagogy (P&P), ticular subject-area teaching did the number of participants share to help with this? needs? a simple and healthful way for become unwieldy or force you to interested participants from all form separate groups? Sometimes people show up No, but you could if that’s walks of campus life to literally because they need to vent, and what people wanted. I do have walk the talk by discussing ef- The numbers have varied quite a that’s OK with me. We usually a faculty member who has fective teaching practices as they bit depending on the day of the end up with solutions once the incorporated the idea into beat feet across campus. week and time of day, but I have venting is done, and it sometimes her contemplative pedago- Catherine noted, “I have never had more than eight show prompts others to share their gies techniques and uses it in presented on [Pedometers & up. I have a technique I use to stories. I’ve not had any repeat her class where she has her Pedagogy] nationally and actu- keep it from becoming unwieldy: complainers, but if I did, I would students walk and discuss. ally had people in my conference Everyone walks in pairs and, probably speak to them privately. depending on the total number of session walk through the confer- Since faculty all love data, by participants, we switch partners ence site so I could model for More generally speaking, what any chance did you have any every few minutes so that each them how it works—people loved tips would you share so that your research studies to share with person gets advice and ideas from it and said it was so fun and unex- model could be used elsewhere? participants about the efficacy everyone in the group. pected to actually do it.” of the P&P model on their own In a recent interview with ASPB, • How did you advertise? Did learning or professional devel- Catherine explained the history and Can you share examples of the word of mouth play a part? opment? application of this clever version of selected topics used to get dis- Did administration help in a faculty learning network. cussions going? How often were any way? continued on page 26 ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  25 Education Forum

WALK THE TALK year, I decided to have all the Teaching: Five Key Changes to continued from page 25 participants read the same book Practice that I think is also very I have not done research on this and then used that book as the good. particular idea in terms of its underpinning for our group Thank You! efficacy as a faculty development work and workshops. The book Walk On! technique. Instead, I have been was How Learning Works: Seven For more information about DART Container focusing my research on the Research-Based Principles for Pedometers & Pedagogy or Wake retreat and on a faculty–student Smart Teaching by Susan A. Forest’s TLC faculty network- Corporation book group that I cofacilitate Ambrose, Michael W. Bridges, ing options (including learning with Student Affairs. I have cited Michele DiPietro, and Marsha center retreats), please contact the research that’s out there on C. Lovett. Catherine at [email protected] or ASPB brings hands-on the benefits of walking and the In the first two years of see https://tlc.wfu.edu/. plant biology activities to benefits of getting outside, and the retreat, we gave partici- To share your innovative K-16 science educators and my own observations of the pants a choice of what books professional development, citizen scientists of all ages power of peer mentoring. This they would read, so in addi- scientific teaching, or faculty every year. A real crowd- tion to How Learning Works, pleaser is planting mini- was really intended to be a low networking techniques with gardens in small plastic commitment way of getting there were The Heart of Higher ASPB, please contact Katie portion cups. Adding a lid faculty to pay more attention to Education by Arthur Zajonc Engen at [email protected]. n makes transporting these balance in their lives and to give and Parker Palmer, Inspired precious plants a breeze them a bonus of exercise while College Teaching: A Career-Long working on their teaching since Resource for Professional Growth Thanks to DART’s generous everyone is so frantically busy by Maryellen Weimer, and donation of cups and lids, and stressed out. Teaching for Critical Thinking by ASPB’s education outreach Stephen Brookfield. Of these, booths can continue to help Per ASPB’s request, Catherine my favorite is How Learning plant biology bloom and grow everywhere! followed up the interview with Works, but Maryellen Weimer some related information: has a new book out that I used This is DART’s second donation The readings for the mid- this past fall for a faculty book to ASPB . career retreat have evolved over discussion group (not part of the the three years I’ve run it. Last retreat) called Learner-Centered

Dart Container Corporation WICKED GOOD (INSIGHTS) build models, and so a bit of with ASPB and Boston-area continued from page 24 plant biochemistry and photo- outreach. She also said, “It was seeds germinating on filter paper. synthesis was introduced. (See very encouraging to see so many The teachers enjoyed check- more on photosynthesis model- teachers coming out to learn as ing the levels of starch in these ing with Lego bricks on page 15 much as they could about the seeds as well as in the cereal, of the March/April 2013 issue of upcoming technologies and bread/cracker, and popcorn the ASPB News, http://newslet- tools available to them. They samples using starch indica- ter.aspb.org/pastissues.cfm.) were all thrilled with the FPsc tors. Handouts for setup and the Katie [Greenham] was a plants and encouraged us to 45-minute classroom activity new ASPB booth volunteer. ‘keep it coming.’” n were popular. Of course, I had She reports that NSTA inspired some Lego® bricks on hand to her to become more involved

26  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 Education Forum

New ASPB Partnership

LifeSciTRC Partners BY KATIE ENGEN ASPB Education Coordinator American Association of Anatomists American Physiological he Life Science Teaching with colleagues, and allow users Cotton or the protocol for one of Society Resource Community to submit materials to LifeSciTRC our hands-on, inquiry-oriented American Society of T(LifeSciTRC; http://www. or serve as a LifeSciTRC reviewer. outreach booth activities. At least Plant Biologists lifescitrc.org) is a collaborative dig- Registration information is never 90% of what any partner offers Genetics Society of America ital library of peer-reviewed life sci- bought or sold. must be free to users. ence teaching resources that is free Upon learning that ASPB was To explore or join the Human Anatomy and and open to educators worldwide. ready to become a new partner, LifeSciTRC, please visit http:// Physiology Society LifeSciTRC welcomes all life Marsha Matyas, the American www.lifescitrc.org. If you register, Massachusetts Society for sciences and invites K-to-gray Physiological Society’s (APS’s) you also can submit materi- Medical Research participation. It is a response to director of education programs, als. If you do so, please select National Association for the idea that wider dissemination immediately got our Society ASPB as your partner affiliation. Health and Science Education Alternatively, you can request of effective, motivating resources plugged in with Miranda Byse, Partnerships and cross-curricular integration LifeSciTRC program manager. that ASPB submit materials you can occur if multiple life science Marsha enthused, “Wonderful! We suggest by contacting Katie Engen Physiological Society entities create a unified consor- are so happy to have you join us and at [email protected]. n Northwest Association for Biomedical Research tium. Not only is this good for look forward to working with you!” scientific teaching and learning Since 1998, APS has been a Society for but also funding agencies appreci- generous and proactive orga- Developmental Biology ate when societies share resources nizer for this resource. On March What About and collaborate efficaciously. 30, 2014, the original archive As of January 2014, the was rebranded to reflect the CourseSource? LifeSciTRC contained more than cross-curricular life sciences 6,700 peer-reviewed teaching collaboration it has become. ASPB will continue to actively participate with another resources and 600 registered users. APS will continue to serve as the digital teaching materials resource, CourseSource (http:// All resources in the LifeSciTRC are organizing partner (see sidebar, coursesourcejournal.wordpress.com; soon to transition from blog under a Creative Commons License LifeSciTRC Partners). to site). This new journal seeks peer-reviewed biology education (Attribution NonCommercial- Online tools allow partners materials using evidence-based pedagogy. CourseSource follows NoDerivs). These resources include to manage their submissions the traditional submissions and peer-review protocols with audiovisual materials, lesson plans, and reviews. Staff or committee direction from an editor-in-chief and staff support, and as such teaching journal articles, and scien- members of the partnering societ- it does not offer the same “open community” flavor as does the tific content materials. ies will submit or approve submit- LifeSciTRC. Also, only higher-education biology materials will be Those who register as ted resources that have been vetted offered on CourseSource because it is a direct response to Vision LifeSciTRC users also can use tools by their individual protocols. For and Change (http://www.visionandchange.org). ASPB continues that recommend items based on example, ASPB will vet and post a to promote CourseSource in hopes that ASPB members will classes or course(s) and level(s) link to our journals and Teaching submit pedagogically excellent plant science teaching resources taught, save search parameters Tools in Plant Biology. We also will for AP and higher-education faculty to use. and search results, customize fold- post links to our classroom materi- ers to save results, share resources als such as Plants in Your Pants: ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  27 Education Forum

PULSE: The Beat Goes On Partnership for Undergraduate Life Science Education BY KATIE ENGEN ASPB Education Forum

PULSE Networking agencies held detailed discussions structure related solely to the and departmental colleagues on On March 11, 2014, ASPB par- about shared goals and potentially PULSE Liaison program.” their campus. ticipated in the Partnership for overlapping resources. Undergraduate Life Science Meeting coordinator and PULSE PROGRESS Ambassador Training Education (PULSE) Leadership PULSE Leadership Fellow Program (ATP) Fellows meeting at Howard Bill Davis (Washington State PULSE Toolkit PULSE secured NSF funding to Hughes Medical Institute University) reported that as The PULSE site (http://www. train life science faculty to serve (HHMI) in Chevy Chase, a result of this day, “We have pulsecommunity.org) offers re- as V&C ambassadors who will Maryland. This particular day (of identified several new ways that sources that align with Vision and visit higher education life science a four-day event) was dedicated we intend to connect with our Change (V&C) goals. The toolkit departments around the country to coordinating PULSE and life professional societies. . . . The provides guidance and materials and facilitate dialogue about local science society initiatives. After fellows feel that the effort to for introducing and establish- planning and implementation of an informative session on PULSE maintain connections to societ- ing active learning, assessment, the recommendations in the V&C community progress, small ies like ASPB is so critical to our flipped classrooms, effective report. The current grant support groups of PULSE fellows and the mission that [a first goal is] to online lectures, partner organi- will see the program through the 21 invited education personnel establish a new working circle zations, scientific teaching, and piloting, evaluation, and develop- from life science societies and [for societies] in our governance strategic plans to administrators ment of ATP; its implementation

This graphic recording reflects the meeting’s theme: events and activities on the surface occur only when deep beliefs shift to provide movement and support. 28  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 Education Forum

within the fellows group; and visits to 10 campuses. PULSE will offer Life Science Groups Participating in PULSE more funds to expand campus vis- its beyond the pilot phase and to American Institute of Biological Sciences About PULSE recruit and train more interested American Society for Microbiology and ASPB faculty from across the country. Society of Developmental Biology American Society for Cell Biology PULSE was established in POWER Site National Science Foundation 2012 by NSF, NIH/ National American Society of Plant Biologists The PULSE Online Workshops and Institute of General Medical Human Anatomy and Physiology Society Electronic Resources (POWER) Sciences (NIGMS), and NIH/NIGMS site now offers efficient and infor- Howard Hughes Medical American Association for the Advancement of Science mative online workshops (http:// Institute (HHMI). PULSE National Association of Biology Teachers tinyurl.com/o9suc7k) that align aims to stimulate systemic SENCER with scientific teaching and V&C changes to improve under- Sociocracy Consulting Group goals. Workshop titles include graduate biology education American Physiological Society An Introduction to the Vision experiences at all types of Ecological Society of America and Change; Student-Centered postsecondary educational National Association of Biology Teachers Learning, Course Design; Active institutions. PULSE springs Genetics Society of America Learning; Obtaining Evaluative from the Vision and Change American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Data (Scholarly Teaching); and (V&C) movement (http:// Howard Hughes Medical Insitute Departmental Transformation. www.visionandchange.org) that ASPB has actively sup- ported since 2007. There V&C Certification The PULSE Local Impacts campus to one of these maps. are 35 PULSE fellows; two The goal of PULSE certification Map plots PULSE leadership More simply, post your customiz- are active ASPB members. is to recognize V&C campus fellows’ efforts over time, includ- able PULSE member badge on Several PULSE advisers change achievements at differ- ing information about the presen- your social media page today (with whom the fellows ent levels (e.g., bronze, silver, tations and workshops held by the (http://tinyurl.com/q8shxvk). consult) also are ASPB gold, and platinum). The V&C fellows at regional and national For more information, visit members. Certification Pilot Team received meetings (http://tinyurl.com/ http://www.pulsecommunity.org NSF funding to pilot certifica- q2oy7gm). or check the PULSE Points link tion at eight institutions in 2014. Make your own mark! Join a updated regularly at the bottom of More than 70 schools applied for PULSE initiative and add your ASPB’s home page. n the certification pilot, suggesting broad national interest in making changes to undergraduate biology education. Pilot certification will My Life as a Plant include a site visit to each insti- coloring & activity book tution by a team of two PULSE in C fellows. Program details and the Now hinese and Farsi! certification rubrics are available Get your copy now! at http://tinyurl.com/p3fu9pn. Free PDFs at http://my.aspb.org/?page=My_Life_As_A_Plant PULSE Maps Hardcopies from Amazon: The PULSE Community Overview Farsi: http://tinyurl.com/MLaaP-Farsi Map shows those institutions with Chinese: http://tinyurl.com/MLaaP-Chinese active PULSE membership (http:// tinyurl.com/o2j6k7k). Color-coded Many thanks to the Chinese Society of Plant Biology Thank you, volunteer translators! dots specify community colleges, (CSPB) and the team of volunteer translators: Sara Zahraeifard and Sareh Poormahdi (Louisiana State liberal arts campuses, regional com- Zhihong Xu and Hongya Gu (Peking University), Zuhua University), and Bahman Kholdebarin (Shiraz University) prehensives, research institutions, He (CSPB Secretary General), and Bing Leng and Li Zhou Thanks also to Timothy Lin (North Park University) who and other organizations. (CSPB Secretaries) proofread the translation. ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  29 Education Forum

SURF’s Up for 2014! BY KATIE ENGEN ASPB Education Coordinator

ecipients of the ASPB a high level of mentoring being undergraduates.” community, and I wish we had Summer Undergraduate done around the world by dedi- “It was great to see the ideas the budget to support more RResearch Fellowship cated—and often overworked— of the next generation of plant projects.” (SURF; http://surf.aspb.org) re- individuals who understand that biologists. These students are Congratulations to the follow- ceive support to conduct 10 con- the future of our profession is making excellent contribu- ing 2014 SURF recipients and secutive weeks of plant biology in the hands and minds of our tions to the plant biology honorable mentions! research under the direction of a mentor who is an ASPB member. Group A Program participation is worldwide and represents diverse Research and Doctoral Universities interests. The SURF committee separately reviews proposals from doctoral-granting (group A) and primarily undergraduate (group B) institutions and makes awards proportionally on the basis of the number of applications received from each group. This year’s 16 awards went to 12 group A and four group B applicants. The 2014 SURFers will present their research at the undergradu- ate and general poster sessions during Plant Biology 2015 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Vincent Provasek Kathleen DiNapoli Yiyin Catherine Zhang Yiyin Catherine Zhang, Duke Revelations from SURF Vincent E. Provasek, Texas A&M Kathleen T. DiNapoli, Wake University Forest University University Reviewers Mentor: Ping He Mentor: Gloria K. Muday Mentor: Meng Chen “The quality of proposals at the top Project: Genetic dissection of Project: Introgression lines provide Project: Functional characteriza- of the applications has increased Arabidopsis genes governing insight into genetic controls of root tion of HEMERA in transcrip- over the years. A student whose ap- immune gene expression development in tomato tional regulation by light plication was awarded an honorable It is truly an honor to have This SURF fellowship will allow Thanks to the SURF award, I will be mention can feel good about it, as received this fellowship from such me to begin my research career able to continue my research at the they would (in my mind) be good a premier organization as ASPB. and experience an extended and Chen laboratory this summer and enough to win an award if we had I have no doubt that upon its concentrated study in an area of to share my findings at an ASPB more funds to distribute. It is also conclusion, I will have gained a plant physiology that interests me. conference. This valuable opportu- great to see so much high-quality most unique experience that will As I plan to attend graduate school nity will allow me to further explore science being done by undergradu- help me become a more competi- in plant biology, I am also excited my interest in plant light signaling ate students all over the United tive applicant to graduate schools to attend the ASPB annual meet- as well as to develop the requisite States and beyond.” and, eventually, employers. ing and learn about plant biology skills of a plant biologist. I would “The applications that comprised to help me choose future research also like to thank Dr. Meng Chen both panels were of excellent directions and graduate programs. and Dr. Yongjian Qiu for their quality, and it is great to see such continual guidance and support! 30  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 Education Forum

Matthew Galliart Sean Rogers Katherine Murphy Gregory Harrison

Matthew B. Galliart, Kansas hope to build networks crucial to State University my advancement as a potential Mentor: Loretta Johnson PhD student and future plant Project: Experimental field selec- science researcher. tion of big bluestem ecotypes across the Great Plains: A novel test for Katherine M. Murphy, Stanford the strength of local adaptation University Winning the SURF grant will help Mentor: Virginia Walbot further my professional goals by Project: Reactive oxygen species in building an even stronger foun- maize anther development dation in conducting scientific I am honored to be chosen for a research and preparing me to SURF grant. Winning this grant become a professional scientist. will give me the opportunity to perform and share my research Sean W. Rogers, University of project while also connecting me Dandan [Dawn] Hajdu Jeffrey Kovach Missouri to the plant community to help Mentor: Antje Heese me pursue my professional aspi- Project: Examining functional rations of applying and attending my experiences with me through travel to Plant Biology 2015 to redundancy of the vesicular traf- graduate school to study plant graduate school and beyond. talk to other scientists about my research and their projects. ficking genes DRP2A and DRP2B biochemistry. in flg22-induced MAPK pathway Dandan [Dawn] L. Hajdu, using artificial micro RNAs Gregory A. Harrison, Washington Colorado State University Jeffrey D. Kovach, The Ohio State Receiving the ASPB SURF has University in St. Louis Mentor: Cristiana T. Argueso University provided me with the exciting Mentor: Barbara N. Kunkel Project: The role of chromatin Mentor: Rebecca Lamb opportunity to continue my Project: Jasmonate Hypersensitive modifications in molecular prim- Project: The role of the chroma- research on the role of vesicular 2: A novel component of the JA ing of plants against pathogens tin remodeling protein CHR9 in LFY-dependent transcription trafficking proteins in plant innate signaling pathway in Arabidopsis This valuable opportunity will immunity in Antje Heese’s lab I am extremely grateful to help me to experience the real life Receiving the ASPB’s SURF award at the University of Missouri. ASPB for the opportunity to get of a scientist and give me a chance will allow me to continue my I am also thrilled to attend the involved in the world of plant to take a close look at what my research during the summer, and 2015 ASPB national meeting in biology research. I can’t wait to future career will look like. I will I am grateful to my mentor, Dr. Minneapolis, where I will present scratch the surface of this exciting be able to work full-time as a Rebecca Lamb, and ASPB for the my research for the first time and field this summer and to carry researcher, learn new things, and continued on page 32 ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  31 Education Forum

Mark Holmes Peter Lambert Linh Nguyen Manh Elena Cravens opportunity to expand my knowl- doing an extended research proj- edge of plant biology. The experi- ect with Dr. T. Kaye Peterman. ence I gain over the summer will This experience will provide me be useful for furthering my career with an accurate assessment of in science. graduate school and research as a career, thereby helping me

decide my future career plans and Mark W. Holmes, University of preparing me for a career in a Illinois rigorous academic environment. Mentor: Andrew Leakey Project: Quantitative genetic analysis of tiller angle as a target Kirsten M. Famiglietti, Southern for improved radiation intercep- Connecticut State University tion efficiency in4 C crops Mentor: Rebecca A. Silady Project: Second site genetic screen of Winning the SURF grant will Arabidopsis thaliana grv2 mutants allow me to get a head start Kirsten M. Famiglietti Michael Armstrong on an exciting career in crop Winning the SURF grant and genetic research. My hope is that communication skills. Also, I will intermediate, and long-term goals seeing my plans come to fruition this summer will help pave the be able to gain a valuable research in my professional career as a have motivated me to work even way for me to continue similar experience that will help me plant geneticist. harder and be more confident in research in graduate school. prepare for studies at the graduate pursuing my long-term academic level. I am looking forward to this goals. I cannot wait to work in the Group B summer! lab this summer and expand upon Peter M. Lambert, Rice Primarily Undergraduate the skills that volunteering with University Institutions Dr. Silady already has taught me! Mentor: Paul A. Nakata, USDA/ Linh Nguyen Manh, University ARS CNRC Baylor College of of Alberta Elena N. Cravens, Wellesley Medicine Mentor: Enrico Scarpella College Michael S. Armstrong, San Project: Characterization of Project: The role of Plasmodesmata Mentor: T. Kaye Peterman Diego State University the Oryza sativa acyl activating in auxin-transport-dependent vein Project: The role of COW1 ortho- Mentor: Elizabeth R. Waters enzyme 3 (OsAAE3) formation logs in Physcomitrella patens in Project: An investigation of the role of ROS in heat and light stress Being awarded the SURF fellow- Thanks to the process of applica- protonemal growth in Boechera ship will allow me to commit tion for the ASPB SURF, I had The ASPB SURF award will to my research project full-time a chance to seriously consider enhance my career goals by giving Receiving the SURF grant will allow and further develop my scientific and formulate all my short-term, me the opportunity to continue me to carry out a research project 32  ASPB NEWS | MAY/JUNE 2014 Education Forum

Drew Anderson Keo Corak Jacob Maman Karen Chanchavac

undergrad, I find SURF to be an writing a research proposal. This is exciting opportunity to dedicate a a skill I will use often in the future. summer to research and immerse

myself in cool science. Everything Jacob B. Maman, University of from writing the fellowship Massachusetts Amherst proposal to attending the ASPB Mentor: Alice Y. Cheung Plant Biology 2015 conference Project: Structural-functional will help me prepare for a career characterization of FERONIA- in plant biology and enrich my pectin interaction undergrad experience. One of the major benefits of the SURF program is the oppor- Category A tunity to attend Plant Biology Honorable Mentions 2015. Hearing about cutting-edge research and meeting the leaders Zoe Dubrow Zoe E. Dubrow, Stanford in the field will provide me with Stephen Louie University the opportunity to learn much as over the summer. This project will Mentor: Mary Beth Mudgett well as expand my career options my research, asking for profes- help build my understanding and Project: Investigation of the role of or further define my career path. sional advice, and delivering my experience in the field of plant 14-3-3 proteins in tomato immune thoughts in a precise manner. biology research. I want to thank signaling Category B everyone on the SURF committee I hope to continue my studies of Stephen B. Louie, Loyola for this wonderful opportunity. I Honorable Mentions plant biology in graduate school, Marymount University look forward to meeting everyone and I am very thankful to ASPB Karen A. Chanchavac, Spring Mentor: Michelle R. Lum at Plant Biology 2015. and SURF for supporting under- Arbor University Project: Study of the biological graduate studies in plant biology! Mentor: Aaron J. Wyman interactions between Lupinus Drew C. Anderson, University of Project: Genetic, cellular, and chamissonis and microbial Puget Sound Keo Corak, Macalaster College molecular analysis of putative communities exposed to heavy Mentor: Andreas Madlung Mentor: Susan Bush, UC Davis peroxisomal cell proteins metal stress Project: Comparison of proteome Project: Analysis of fel1 mutation Applying for the SURF grant A SURF grant will allow me to and transcriptome to red light in tomato supports my educational pursuits invest in materials that could stimulation in tomato Applying for the 2014 ASPB SURF by allowing me to become familiar further enhance and expand the As a student aspiring to continue grant provided me with the oppor- with an organizational application scope of my research. n with molecular biology following tunity to practice preparing and process that included explaining ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 41, NUMBER 3  33 Obituary

Sydney Kustu 1943–2014

This article was adapted from an obituary written by Ann Brody Guy in the College of Natural Resources at the University of California, Berkeley, and is used here with permission from the author. http://plantbio.berkeley.edu/news/uc-berkeley-mourns-loss-professor-emerita-sydney-kustu

Professor Emerita Sydney Kustu, and international professorships, NtrC, and proceeded to make a distinguished faculty member including a prestigious Gauss a number of discoveries that in UC Berkeley’s Department of Professorship at Universität increased our understanding of Plant and Microbial Biology, died Göttingen. For more than a transcription in general.” Sydney March 18. She was 71 years old. decade, her work was supported made other seminal contributions She was a member of the National by NIH MERIT awards. related to her nitrogen studies, Academy of Sciences and was “Professor Kustu is an including her discovery of the Rut instrumental in the revitalization eminent scholar and one of the pathway for pyrimidine degrada- of the field of microbiology on the world’s leading microbiologists,” tion in E. coli. Berkeley campus. her longtime colleague Bob She was a generous mentor, “Kustu has made major contri- Buchanan, professor emeritus giving enormous amounts of butions to our understanding of of plant and microbial biology, her time and energy to facilitate the regulation of gene expres- wrote in a letter describing her the publication of key work of sion,” a statement read during Sydney Kustu work. “She added a new dimen- younger colleagues. She was also her induction into the National sion to microbiology and poten- particularly beloved by under- Academy of Sciences said. “Her tially to medicine.” graduate students who worked work has led to the identification joined what was then Berkeley’s Sydney is best known for her in the Department of Plant and of the novel mechanisms respon- microbiology and immunology seminal contributions on the Microbial Biology. Throughout sible for the regulated expression faculty, with a dual appointment responses of intestinal bacteria to her career, she was a dedicated of the enzymes and transport in plant pathology. She retired in nutrient limitations, particularly teacher at both the undergradu- systems involved in nitrogen 2010. nitrogen. Buchanan enumerated ate and graduate levels. Her use of metabolism in bacteria.” In addition to being a National her extraordinary contributions the Socratic method for teaching Sydney Govons Kustu was Academy member, Sydney in this area of basic science. concepts in microbiology was born in 1943 in Baltimore. garnered a large number of “Sydney Kustu made order particularly effective and inspiring. She earned a BA at Harvard other awards during her career out of the chaotic complexity of Sydney is survived by her son, University and a PhD in at Berkeley. She was a fellow of the genetics of the system,” he Saul Kustu of Aptos, and her sisters, biochemistry from UC Davis the American Academy of Arts wrote. “She identified the relevant Roberta Glassman of Calabasas and and did postdoctoral work at UC and Sciences, the American genes and showed how they are Marica Govons of Belmont Shores, Berkeley until 1973, when she was Association for the Advancement regulated by nitrogen-containing all in California. n appointed to the UC Davis bacte- of Science, and the American compounds in the environment. riology faculty. She remained at Academy of Microbiology. She She then concentrated on one of UC Davis until 1986, when she also held a number of national these transcriptional activators,

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Call for Papers Focus Issue on Chromatin and Epigenetics Deadline for Submission: February 6, 2015. To submit an article, please go to http://submit.plantphysiol.org

The “epi”-genomic information embedded in chromatin and its modifications provide an overarching layer of regulation of gene expression. Mecha- nistic models of how this layer is integrated with other components of the transcriptional machinery are only just beginning to take shape. Evidence of the importance of chromatin-based processes for plant development, physiology, and adaptation has grown exponentially over the past decade, catapulting chromatin research onto the front line of modern plant science. The emerging relationship between epigenetics and phenotypic variation has alerted crop breeders to its importance, while the role of chromatin in plant–environment interactions opens new avenues for biotechnology. This Focus Issue on Chromatin and Epigenetics will showcase a selection of Update reviews and primary plant research articles on topics including, but not limited to, chromatin modification and remodeling, nucleosome positioning, small RNAs, cell fate, transcriptional responsiveness, acclimation, and epigenetic inheritance. Particular emphasis will be on studies that connect mechanistic insight into chromatin-based processes, whether or not heritable, with plant development as well as cellular and whole plant physiology. Authors interested in contributing should indicate this in the cover letter when submitting papers online at http//submit.plantphysiol.org/. Please select “Chromatin and Epigenetics (June 2015)” from the Focus Issue list in the online submission system. Articles published in Plant Physiology on this topic within 2 years before and after the Focus Issue publication date will be collected in an online Focus Collection on Chromatin and Epigenetics.

Please contact Anna Amtmann ([email protected]), Hong Ma ([email protected]), or Doris Wagner (wagnerdo@ sas.upenn.edu) for additional information.

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