A Difficult Decision

July/August 2021 • Volume 48, Number 4

p. 5 p. 6 p. 9 Yunde Zhao to Plant Synthetic Plant Scientists Become the Next Biology 2021 Elected to the 2021 Editor-in-Chief Class of the U.S. of Plant Physiology® September 25–27 National Academy of Sciences

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLANT BIOLOGISTS

President’s Letter 2021 ASPB Election Results

A Difficult Decision any thanks to those members who BY MAUREEN McCANN took the time to vote earlier this ASPB President, National Renewable Energy Laboratory Msummer, and hearty congratulations to our newly elected Board members! Their new service roles for ASPB will begin on October 1, 2021, and you can look for more major focus of ballots are certified and information about them in the next issue of ASPB is science applies limits on access the ASPB News. Apolicy and how it to voting that have been impacts research funding, widely interpreted to target the pipeline of talent into marginalized communi- our labs, and regulatory ties, most recently by the practices. In the United U.S. Department of Justice. States, our Science Policy The passing of this law Committee engages on our was a challenge for ASPB. behalf with federal fund- After staff members and ing agencies and legislators the Program Committee from both parties to raise visited the city in early awareness of, and advocate March 2020, the ASPB for, the critical importance Board of Directors (BoD) of plant biology. ASPB does voted to approve the Incoming President-elect Gustavo MacIntosh not and cannot engage in partisan politics. Program Committee’s recommendation that Iowa State University, Ames Nevertheless, ASPB encountered a significant we convene Plant Biology 2023 in Savannah, challenge earlier this year when the Georgia Georgia. However, the provisions of Georgia’s Incoming Elected Member state legislature passed the Election Integrity new voting law are completely counter to Elena Monti Act of 2021, originally Senate Bill 202. This ASPB’s stated objectives around equity, Centre for Research in Agricultural bill, which Georgia governor Brian Kemp diversity, and inclusion (https://bit.ly/ASPB- Genomics, Barcelona, Spain signed into law March 25 beneath a paint- Position-Statement-Diversity). The difficult Congratulations, too, to our newly elected ing of a plantation and flanked by only white decision to be made was whether ASPB Enid MacRobbie Corresponding Members: men, changes the mechanism by which continued on page 3 Naomi Ori and Shu-Hsing Wu! Contents

Council members highlighted in blue ASPB Council also serve on the Board of Directors.

President Maureen McCann Immediate Past President; Chair Judy Callis President-elect Katayoon (Katie) Dehesh 1 President’s Letter Secretary Wayne Parrott Treasurer; Chair, Board of Trustees Kent Chapman 1 2021 ASPB Election Results Elected Members Christine Foyer Clint Chapple 4 Centennial Challenge Corner Gustavo MacIntosh 5 Yunde Zhao to Become the Next Editor-in-Chief of Chair, Membership Committee Ruth Welti Chair, Equity, Diversity, and Plant Physiology® Inclusion Committee Miguel Vega-Sanchez Chair, Publications Committee Steve Theg 6 Plant Synthetic Biology 2021 Chair, Women in Plant Biology Committee Eva Farre Chair, Education Committee Erin Friedman 7 New White Paper on Innovative, Integrative, and Chair, International Committee Anja Geitmann Inclusive Outreach in Plant Science Chair, Science Policy Committee Tessa Burch-Smith Sectional Representatives 8 Plant Virtual Minisymposium Brings Scientists Mid-Atlantic Section Mike Axtell Together in the Mid-Atlantic Region Midwestern Section Gustavo MacIntosh Northeastern Section Carolyn Lee-Parsons Southern Section Nihal Dharmasiri Western Section Judy Brusslan People Mexico Section Rubén Rellán Álvarez Early Career Plant Scientists Section Rishi Masalia

9 Plant Scientists Elected to the 2021 Class of the Environmental and Ecological U.S. National Academy of Sciences Plant Physiology Section Emily Heaton Primarily Undergraduate 14 Amy Marshall-Colon Receives Friedrich Wilhelm Institutions Section Leeann Thornton Bessel Research Award Ambassador Alliance Katy McIntyre 15 Niba Audrey Nirmal, 2021 ASPB/AAAS Mass Media ASPB Staff Science & Engineering Fellow, to Spend the Summer Chief executive officer Crispin Taylor, [email protected] at Complexly Chief financial officer Clara Woodall, [email protected] Executive and governance affairs administrator Sylvia Lee, [email protected] 16 Haley Dunleavy Awarded 2021 AAAS Ralph W. F. Accounting manager Teressa Leath, [email protected] Hardy Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship Senior staff accountant Jotee Pundu, [email protected] Senior staff accountant Francky Rakotomanana, [email protected] Director of meetings and marketing Jean Rosenberg, [email protected] Conference coordinator Teresa Myers, [email protected] Membership Corner Senior membership manager Shoshana Kronfeld, [email protected] Membership administrator Linda Palmer, [email protected] 17 Patrick Thomas Community engagement administrator Katie Rogers, [email protected] Web systems manager Mark James, [email protected] Education coordinator Winnie Nham, [email protected] Science Policy Publications assistant Diane McCauley, [email protected] Managing editor Chris Lowe, [email protected] 18 Policy Update Science writer, Plant Physiology Peter Minorsky, [email protected] Peer review manager, Plant Physiology Ashton Wolf, [email protected] Senior features editor, The Plant Cell Nan Eckardt, [email protected] Features editor, The Plant Cell Mary Williams, [email protected] Education Forum Peer review manager, The Plant Cell Annette Kessler, [email protected]

21 Plant BLOOME 2021 Winners The ASPB News is distributed to all ASPB members and is also available online. It is published 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 is edited and 22 Announcing the 2021 ASPB Summer Undergraduate produced by ASPB staff from material provided by members and other interested parties. Research Fellows Copy deadline is the 5th day of the preceding even-numbered month (for example, April 5 for May/June publication). Contact: Crispin Taylor, Editor, ASPB News, 15501 Monona Drive, Rockville, MD 20855- 2768 USA; [email protected]; 301-296-0900. © 2021 American Society of Plant Biologists

2 ASPB NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 PRESIDENT’S LETTER was a difficult one. While compa- ing members from underrepre- In other words, ASPB should continued from page 1 nies were threatening boycotts, sented groups into plant biology, identify ways to expand its confer- should recommit to holding Plant voting rights activists were calling and enabling access to scientific ence footprint that allow members Biology 2023 in Savannah. for pressure to be put on legislators fora by all of our members. We to participate in direct engagement Planning for the annual meet- that would not adversely impact discussed whether ASPB’s with- with the communities in which ing and its satellite meetings the economic security of Georgian drawal would influence the think- we are meeting. For example, begins years in advance. Even communities. In one conversation ing of state legislatures or whether members might give a talk at a as we move on from the Plant with the Democratic and African working under an umbrella of local school or visit with colleagues Biology 2021 Worldwide Summit, American mayor of Savannah, he scientific societies would be more at minority-serving institutions in venues for 2022 and for 2024, conveyed what withdrawing our productive. On balance, this deci- the vicinity of conference venues. ASPB’s centennial celebration, conference would mean for local sion came down to a recognition The BoD plans to assemble a task are already secured. For 2023, businesses and communities and that choosing not to convene in force to identify specific activities the contracts with the Savannah reiterated his personal commitment Savannah—or, for that matter, any that we might undertake at future convention center and hotels were to upholding voting rights in his city in a state that has passed or conference venues, beginning largely ready, but they remained city (https://bit.ly/3eKOBBx). is considering restrictive voting with Portland, Oregon, in 2022 unsigned as we all—staff, gover- Georgia is only one among laws—is unlikely to bring about and continuing with Savannah the nance, and convention centers dozens of states that have already positive change and would have a following year. In addition, we will everywhere—were reimagin- passed or are considering laws negative impact on this and other develop, and share with conference ing how conferences would be that restrict voting rights. Indeed, minority-majority cities. attendees, lists of minority-owned convened in a postpandemic according to the Brennan Center Second, we evaluated what restaurants and other relevant world. It would have been diffi- for Justice (https://bit.ly/2V1e96h), pathways exist to effect positive businesses in the cities where we cult, but possible, to find an alter- by July of this year, legislators had change consistent with our values meet. Meanwhile, a second task native 2023 conference location. introduced more than 400 bills of diversity and inclusion in our force will develop a robust rubric The city of Savannah had put with restrictive provisions in 49 own research community. With that will establish criteria for venue tremendous effort into attract- states. Many of the states with respect to conferences, and before it selection. ing our business, and we had an new or proposed restrictions on passed the motion above, the BoD Please know that the decisions obligation to make a decision voting are in the South, and we passed the following resolution: and actions taken by the BoD quickly. ASPB’s BoD is constitu- would effectively be penalizing our Future ASPB meetings were difficult and complex. But tionally charged with authority to members in that region if we never should provide opportunities for this is where we stand. As we act on behalf of the membership held our annual meeting there. corporate social responsibilities move forward, we want to hear and, after a series of discussions, We considered how we could promoting equity, diversity, and your comments and suggestions passed the following motion: best advance ASPB’s missions at inclusion, such as food banks, to inform our future journey The 2020–2021 ASPB BoD a conference venue by promoting education initiatives, voter regis- (https://blog.aspb.org/please- reaffirms ASPB’s commitment educational opportunities, recruit- tration, and others. share-your-thoughts-with-us/).  to hold Plant Biology 2023 in Savannah, Georgia. It is fair to say that all BoD members had a visceral reaction of disgust in regard to Senate Bill 202. And it is also fair to say that Want to stop receiving the print newsletter? the motion was not approved unanimously, that various factors y Update your information preferences by going to https://bit.ly/ASPBMembers. weighed more or less heavily for y Log in using your ASPB member username (your email address) and password. individuals, and that every vote y From the My Info page, scroll down to the Communication Information section and was made with personal integrity click on the “Change” button on the upper right-hand side of the section. and deep thoughtfulness. This y Scroll down to “ASPB News - Print Edition,” click on “Send Print ASPB News,” and select motion needs to be understood in “Don’t Send Print ASPB News.” the context of a set of prospective y Review your other information and make any updates. actions that ASPB will take. First, the decision to convene y When finished, click on “Save” at the bottom of the section. Plant Biology 2023 in Savannah

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 48, NUMBER 4 3 Centennial Challenge Corner

Pioneer Members of ASPB

s one component of ASPB’s $5,000 or more to honor them. the donor commitment form Centennial Challenge By late July 2021, the ASPB (https://aspb.org/membership/ A(https://aspb.org/newsletter/ community had honored 60 pioneer-legacy-donation/), and we archive/2021/MayJun2021. Pioneers, living and deceased. will contact you with next steps. pdf#page=3), plant scientists We hope to honor at least 100 by You can submit a testimonial on are honoring their colleagues as the Society’s centennial in 2024. the form to go with your donation. Pioneer Members of ASPB. ASPB The Pioneer Members web page If you would like to initiate Pioneers have served ASPB through (https://aspb.org/membership/ fundraising in support of a Pioneer education and research training aspb-pioneer-members) provides not currently listed, please email for many members of our commu- links to biographical informa- Brian Larkins (larkins@email. nity and leadership of the Society tion about the Pioneers and their arizona.edu) or Crispin Taylor and its journals. Their recognition contributions to plant biology, as ([email protected]). as Pioneers comes from former well as the names of the folks who The following Pioneers were graduate students and postdocs, contributed in their honor. listed on the ASPB website as of colleagues, family members, and To be included as a supporter of July 2021: friends who collectively contributed an existing Pioneer, please complete

Peter Albersheim* Machi Dilworth Yuji Kamiya Peter Quail Robert Bandurski* Gadi Galili Hans Kende* Ralph Quatrano J. Derek Bewly Elisabeth Gantt Joe Key Natasha Raikhel Lawrence Bogorad* Martin Gibbs* J. Clark Lagarias Douglas Randall Hans Bohnert Robert Goldberg Chris Lamb* Anne Holiday (Holly) Schauer* Wendy Boss Solon Gordon* Anton Lang* Kazuo Shinozaki Raymond Bressan Richard Hageman* Brian Larkins Jane Silverthorne Mary-Dell Chilton L. Curtis (Curt) Hannah Chu-Yung Lin* Chris Somerville Joanne Chory John Hanson* Sharon Long Paul Stumpf* Maarten Chrispeels Maureen Hanson Joachim Messing* Masahiro Sugiura Nam-Hai Chua Ralph Hardy* Elliot Meyerowitz Ian Sussex* Mary Clutter* Eliot Herman Thomas Moore Elaine Tobin Eric Conn* Thomas Hodges DeLill Nasser* Richard Trelease Gloria Coruzzi Stephen Howell Niels Nielsen* Larry Vanderhoef* Dean DellaPenna André Jagendorf* Ann Oaks* Joseph Varner* Debra Delmer Ernest Jaworski Bernard Phinney* Jan Zeevaart*

*Deceased

4 ASPB NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 Yunde Zhao to Become the Next Editor-in-Chief of Plant Physiology®

SPB is pleased to an- Howard Hughes Medical Institute Yunde’s appointment, comment- nounce the appoint- postdoctoral fellow, and he is a ing, “I’m delighted that Yunde has Ament of Yunde Zhao recipient of the Japan Society for accepted the editor-in-chief posi- as editor-in-chief of Plant the Promotion of Science visiting tion! Every editor-in-chief puts Physiology® beginning January 1, professorship. their own characteristic stamp 2022. Established in 1926, Plant Yunde, who has served on the on the journal, and I’m looking Physiology is a premier inter- Plant Physiology editorial board forward to seeing how Yunde national journal devoted to all since 2015, said, “I am honored drives forward his vision for Plant aspects of plant biology research, and grateful to have the oppor- Physiology’s second century.” from structural and molecular tunity to lead Plant Physiology, Crispin Taylor, ASPB’s CEO, discoveries to systems science and a premier journal with a rich added, “I am very much looking ecophysiology. Plant Physiology is history and an exceptional repu- forward to working with Yunde one of the oldest and most well- tation for publishing high-quality in his capacity as editor-in-chief respected journals in the field, and high-impact research. The of Plant Physiology. I was greatly and it is the most highly cited strength of the editorial board impressed by his vision for the journal in the plant sciences. Its and staff and the scope and depth journal, his recognition of its 2020 Journal Impact Factor is Yunde’s lab is also developing of topics covered distinguish value as a Society-owned publi- 8.326. tools to spatially and temporally Plant Physiology as one of the best cation, and his intent to further Yunde is a professor of biolog- control auxin production. Yunde’s journals I have had the privilege expand the geographic and topi- ical sciences in the Section of Cell other major research endeavor is of working with. The journal cal reach of Plant Physiology.” and Developmental Biology at to develop gene editing technolo- provides an important interna- Yunde will work closely with the University of California San gy for plants, with an emphasis on tional platform for scientists to current editor Mike Blatt over Diego; he is also director of plant technologies that enable efficient disseminate their discoveries. As the remainder of 2021 to ensure a biology at the Food & Fuel for the isolation of target gene-edited and editor-in-chief, I look forward smooth transition for the journal, 21st Century initiative at UC San transgene-free plants. to building on Plant Physiology’s its editorial board, its staff, and, Diego. Yunde’s research focuses Among his many awards and history of excellence and service most importantly, its authors on the plant hormone auxin, in honors, in both 2019 and 2020 to the plant biology commu- and readers. Mike, who is Regius particular its biosynthesis and Yunde was a Clarivate Highly nity. During my tenure, I also Professor of Botany and Head its roles in axillary meristem Cited Researcher, a distinction look forward to celebrating the of Plant Sciences in the Institute development and organogen- that recognizes the top 1% of 100th anniversary of both Plant of Molecular, Cell, and Systems esis. Taking molecular genetic the most cited researchers in a Physiology an d A SP B.” Biology at the University of approaches to understand auxin subject area. Yunde was a Life Maureen McCann, ASPB Glasgow, has served as editor-in- biosynthesis and its regulation, Sciences Research Foundation/ president, was enthusiastic about chief since 2013. 

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 48, NUMBER 4 5 PLANT SYNTHETIC BIOLOGY 2021 SEPTEMBER 25–27

About the Conference The second ASPB-sponsored Plant Synthetic Biology (SynBio) Conference will be held virtually September 25–27, 2021.

The conference will showcase recent advances in plant SynBio and highlight cutting-edge synthetic biology research in nonplant chassis as well as plants. Topics of interest include the development of logic circuits in plants, computer-aided and computational tools for metabolic engineering, and photosynthetic-driven biomanufacturing.

Abstract deadline: August 13 • Early-bird deadline: August 25

Steering Committee PROGRAM Keynotes Matias Zurbriggen University of Dusseldorf Ron Weiss Massachusetts Institute of Technology Alison Smith Scott Lenaghan Tobias Erb Andrew Hanson Bogumil Karas University of Cambridge (Chair) Max Planck Institute for University of Florida University of Western University of Tennessee Terrestrial Microbiology Ontario Invited Anna Stepanova North Carolina State University Daniel (Danny) Ducat Michigan State University Patrick Shih University of California, Davis Zoran Nikoloski Max Planck Institute Amy Marshall-Colon University of Illinois at Markita Landry Eszter Majer Nicola Patron Sakkie Pretorius University of California, Massachusetts Institute Earlham Institute Macquarie University Urbana–Champaign  Berkeley of Technology

https://plantsyntheticbiology.org

6 ASPB NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 New White Paper on Innovative, Integrative, and Inclusive Outreach in Plant Science BY MARY WILLIAMS Features Editor, The Plant Cell

n November 2018, an NSF- funded workshop was held at Ithe University of California, Davis, with the goal of sharing and disseminating knowledge about plant science outreach programs. In a recent white paper, “Broadening the Impact of Plant Science Through Innovative, Integrative, and Inclusive Outreach,” the workshop con- tributors, many of whom are ASPB members, summarized the workshop’s topics and outcomes and described their experiences with and insights from successful outreach efforts (Friesner et al., 2021). This white paper was published to help plant scientists navigate the The White Paper authors, gathered at UC Davis for the November 2018 workshop. PHOTO BY ROGER INNES creation of an outreach program, to challenge universities to place a higher value on outreach, and to encourage scientific societies to provide their members with tools to connect more effectively with the broader public. The authors noted that although plant scientists are in many ways best positioned to share the importance and relevance of plants with the broader public, few are trained in how to do so. A successful outreach program needs to be innovative, integrative, and inclusive; the white paper gives guidelines for creating such a program and provides case studies of successful Advancing outreach in plant science through inclusion, innovation, and integration. IMAGE FROM FRIESNER ET AL., 2021 programs. I spoke to the paper’s first Committee, about the broader grative, and inclusive outreach Not to be missed in pursuing author, Joanna Friesner, who is context for the white paper and in plant science can inform the those valuable objectives are the executive director of the North the need for effective outreach. public and aid the recruitment of immense opportunities for scien- American Arabidopsis Steering As she observed, innovative, inte- new and more diverse scientists. continued on page 15

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 48, NUMBER 4 7 Plant Virtual Minisymposium Brings Scientists Together in the Mid-Atlantic Region BY HUA LU University of Maryland, Baltimore County

SPB’s Mid-Atlantic Section held a two-day meeting Ajointly with the University of Maryland (UMD) Plant Virtual Minisymposium on May 27 and 28 via Zoom. This conference combined science, education, and social networking to promote interactions among students and faculty in the region. The organizing committee put together an inclusive program with four scientific sessions on diverse research topics, two education panels, one poster session, and multiple social events throughout the two days. Attendees enjoying a break together for a group photo. About 100 participants from the mid-Atlantic area attended. students and faculty on careers in what it is like to work in the Murphy (UMD), Nidhi Rawat The meeting program teaching and the biotech industry. industry, and how to prepare for (UMD), Nick Ruppel (Randolph- featured exciting research talks In the teaching panel, Samantha future jobs. Macon College), Vijay Tiwari by two keynote speakers, Doris Elliot (St. Mary’s College of In addition to enjoying great (UMD), and Shunyuan Xiao Wagner from the University Maryland), Edgar Moctezuma science and participating in (UMD). To ensure a great experi- of Pennsylvania and Yiping Qi (UMD), and Joanna Werner- the panel discussions, faculty ence for attendees, the committee from the University of Maryland Fraczek (Morena Valley College) members had a chance to meet worked hard beginning in March College Park, as well as by invited shared their thoughts on what it with NSF program director to plan the event. speakers, students, and post- means to be an inclusive teacher, Michael Mishkind to learn about Overall, the conference was docs. This joint conference has what teaching and research entail current funding opportunities a success. In addition to great a tradition of supporting junior at different institutions, and what at NSF. There were also multiple science talks and panel discus- faculty and students in the area; experiences are necessary to get social events during the two days sions, there was strong engage- in line with this tradition, six of a teaching job. There were lively for attendees to meet new friends ment by attendees. The organizing the 12 invited speakers were at discussions among the panelists and reconnect with old ones. committee thanks supporting the assistant professor level. Two and audience on how to cope with This annual conference was staff Shoshana Kronfeld (ASPB), postdocs, six graduate students, challenges in online instruction cancelled last year because of the Brad Paleg (UMD), Nichole Zang and one undergraduate student during the pandemic. pandemic. Organizing an online Do (UMBC), and Marcina Garner presented their research orally. In the panel focusing on conference was new to members (UMD), as well as ASPB and the A poster session for postdocs the biotech industry, Tong Zhu of the organizing commit- Department of Plant Science and students showcased their (Syngenta), Aaron Hummel tee, which consisted of Hua Lu and Landscape Architecture at research, and awards were given (Pairwise), and Mike Nuccio (chair, University of Maryland, UMD, for their generous financial to poster presenters to incentivize (Inari Agriculture) gave meeting Baltimore County [UMBC]), support enabling us to make this their participation. participants the chance to discuss Steve Mount (co-chair, UMD), event a success.  The two education panels topics such as what research is at Yiping Qi (co-chair, UMD), Juan provided valuable information for the forefront in the biotech world, Dong (Rutgers University), Angus

8 ASPB NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 People

Plant Scientists Elected to the 2021 Class of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences BY YUN-TING KAO Plantae Fellow, Science Writer

s one of the oldest scien- her PhD years, she studied avian tific membership orga- tumor viruses with Mike Bishop Anizations in the United and Harold Varmus, whom she States, the National Academy of described as the largest influences Sciences (NAS) has been advis- in her scientific life. “They always ing the nation on science and taught me to do good research, technology issues since 1863. answer the question, and devote Members are elected in recogni- yourself to the research,” she tion of their outstanding con- recalled. tributions to research, and NAS After graduate school, membership is considered to be and inspired by her friend Pat Zambryski, Barbara traveled to among the highest honors a sci- Barbara Baker Dean DellaPenna entist can achieve. Jeff Schell’s lab at the Max Planck This year, eight plant scien- Institute in Cologne, Germany, tists were elected in the new NAS where she met Nina Fedoroff which are closely related. “I am me, and truly overwhelming,” class of 120 members and 30 and worked to develop the maize glad that I work with crops, Barbara affirmed. international members. We asked Activator transposon as a genetic because I have had a chance to Reflecting on her career, the newly elected plant scientists tool to disrupt and isolate genes in learn firsthand from both breed- Barbara emphasized the impor- about how the news of their elec- plants. Coming from a nonplant ers and growers,” Barbara noted. tance of finding the right people tion to NAS reached them, their background, she was very moti- Another project, which she to work with: “Work in labs where research journey, and their advice vated when she learned about described as one of the high- you feel an affinity toward the work, for early career researchers. plant disease resistance genes, lights of her career, was an as well as the PI and other members Please join us in recognizing their especially a virus resistance gene NSF-supported outreach project in the lab. They are going to influ- important contributions to the that completely stops a virus from with Charles Brown. Together, ence how you work, how you plant science community. spreading throughout the plant. She they worked with the Makah think, and what you can do.” She thought, “That’s it—a project using and Yakima Nations and with encourages early career researchers Barbara Baker new genetic tools, to answer ques- potato breeders, potato geneti- to keep going and be positive. “You Barbara Baker is a senior scientist at tions in virology, and with potential cists, students, and teachers on will spend a lot of time in the lab,” USDA–ARS in Albany, California, for real-world application. That’s finding potato disease resistance she noted. “You are going to have and an adjunct professor at the something I really want to do.” genes and the origin of the potato to deal with failures and hardship, University of California, Berkeley. Focusing on understanding grown by the Makah in Neah Bay, but don’t lose faith in yourself. Also, As soon as Barbara started the molecular, biochemical, and Washington. “We used genetic ask good questions and think about working in a lab as an undergrad, genetic mechanisms of host– markers to identify where their the big picture; think about how she knew it was where she wanted microbe interactions, Barbara’s potatoes came from. I cannot tell your work can be applied to other to be: “The minute I walked into research includes pathogen- you how meaningful it was to systems.” the lab, I knew I was in the right induced host disease and disease learn from the tribe members and Dean DellaPenna place, and I just loved being there, resistance by plant hosts. When the elders,” Barbara recalled. even to wash dishes.” Barbara’s she started these projects, the Barbara was surprised and Dean DellaPenna is a university research journey began with a only plant that could be trans- delighted when her colleague and distinguished professor and MSU love for viruses and their capac- formed was tobacco, but she and friend Sabeeha Merchant called to Foundation Professor at Michigan ity to replicate in host cells and her colleagues soon turned their inform her she had been elected State University. manipulate their hosts. During attention to potato and tomato, to NAS. “It was so thrilling for continued on page 10

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 48, NUMBER 4 9 People

2021 CLASS OF NAS asked for career advice, and his ment, and advice you’ve received continued from page 9 professors suggested applying at every stage of your education An elaborate prank was for graduate school, an option and career, and try to give as good involved in breaking the news that had never crossed his mind. as you’ve gotten as you proceed to Dean of his election to NAS. Subsequently, he entered the through your own career.” University of California, Davis, The day before the election, Dean Elizabeth S. Dennis got an email from his longtime and worked on a cell wall enzyme friend, colleague, and fishing in ripening tomato fruit. (International Member) buddy Jim Giovannoni, shar- Dean’s research focuses on Elizabeth Dennis is an honoring that he was excited to get his plant metabolism and molecules ary research fellow at CSIRO boat in the water. The next day, that intersect with human health Agriculture and Food and Jim wrote again saying that the and nutrition, such as Vitamin a distinguished professor in boat’s motor was having trouble. E and Provitamin A. He realized the School of Life Sciences, After rounds of text messages and that doing well in research and University of Technology emails trying to come up with doing good for humanity could Sydney, Australia. Elizabeth S. Dennis remedies, Dean got one more be accomplished at the same Always interested in the phone call from Jim, but this time time. He remarked, “We enjoy molecular basis of biological low oxygen in maize. Then they it was not about boats at all (and dissecting biochemical pathways, processes, Liz started her career took advantage of the emerg- actually Jim’s boat was still in cloning the genes involved, and studying bacterial chromo- ing resources for Arabidopsis storage). Dean recalled, “My first understanding how they and some replication before moving and isolated the FLF (FLC) gene, reaction was shock. I think I said, Mother Nature work together to to yeast and investigating how which is responsible for repres- ‘Are you kidding me?’ Maybe with determine the levels of essential petite mutants are generated. sion of flowering in the absence of a little more color than that.” human nutrients in plant tissues.” After some time at the University vernalization (coincidentally with Dean did not follow a typi- His lab is working to help devel- of Papua New Guinea, Liz joined Rick Amasino’s lab). cal career path. After graduating op crops that can expand the CSIRO in the Division of Plant More recently, Liz’s group has from high school, he lacked the availability of essential dietary Industry, one of the premier money and motivation for college, nutrients. research organizations in been working on the molecular so he got a job in a local steel mill Dean encourages early career Australia. “After a flirtation with basis for hybrid vigor, one of working in a coke plant. Coke was researchers to reserve a few hours Drosophila, our group decided the most important biological used to fire the mill’s blast furnac- to think deeply about papers, to abide by the ‘Plant Industry’ phenomena driving crop yield. es, and the mill’s massive ovens topics, and approaches outside name and work on plant DNA. They found that in hybrids, the continuously generated copious of their immediate research area. Beginning with highly repeated methylation status of one parental amounts of heat and sulfurous “My experience is that this type DNA (which was the only DNA allele can be transferred to the gas, so it was literally like work- of reading is often where some of that could be sequenced in other in a process they called ing in hell! Two years of working your better ideas come from,” he 1972), we progressively moved trans-chromosomal methylation. in the mill provided some money advised. He noted the importance to genes and their regulation,” Their focus has changed to the and all the motivation he needed of trusting your own instincts in Liz recalled. She has taken her generation of hybrid mimics, to enter Ohio University. An elec- your research, but also of being love of plants a step further (and which are lines that maintain tive course—Botany 101, taught the harshest critic of your own out of the lab) to regenerate a the hybrid advantage but are by Larry Larson—sparked Dean’s writing, thinking, and logic and bare coastal property she and a homozygous. She envisions that interest in plants. “The more working to continuously improve group of friends own, converting the field will “maintain the excite- molecular I went, the more sense and refine each. He advocates it from a single-tree dairy farm ment of new discoveries, use new things made. I was hooked,” Dean being prepared and being kind: into a vibrant forest. They have technologies as they are devel- reflected. He started work–study “At every stage of your career, take planted more than 30,000 trees oped, collaborate internationally projects in the plant research labs. every opportunity to present your by hand. among plant scientists, and apply The experience helped lay a solid work orally, but treat each talk as Focusing on elucidating the discoveries to crop improve- scientific foundation but, more if it were a job interview, because the molecular basis of plant ment. I hope plant research is importantly, fostered trustful sometimes it might be, without processes, Liz’s lab cloned the as enjoyable in the future as it relationships with his work–study your knowing it.” Finally, he alcohol dehydrogenase gene, has been for me. It is a critically professors. Not knowing what affirmed, “Try to remember each which was identified on the basis important field and deserves to do after graduation, Dean key act of kindness, encourage- of its induction in response to support.”

10 ASPB NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 People

al pathogen in the USDA–ARS lab lockstep to a postdoc. Although in Beltsville, Maryland. Despite there is no question that a spending a great deal of time load- successful postdoctoral period is ing and unloading the dishwasher, usually essential for a position at she had a good experience and a research university, government decided to major in botany. lab, or private research institute, it As a graduate student, often is not needed for someone Maureen began studying chloro- heading toward patent law, the plast ribosome biogenesis, and biotech industry, or community her research always involved or small college teaching.” In some aspect of organelle gene addition, she encourages early expression, nuclear–organelle career researchers to venture far interactions, and organelle and wide: “I was shocked some dynamics. Her lab has studied the years ago to read a statistic about Maureen R. Hanson Regine Kahmann phenomenon of cytoplasmic male the high percentage of PhDs who sterility and fertility restoration never venture far from their thesis and the dynamic stroma-filled project. It’s important to keep Because of the time differ- following through with a project tubular structures known as learning and stay up-to-date on new technology. Much of what ence with Australia, Liz missed are critical. Identify an impor- stromules, which function in the goes on in my lab, or campus- the congratulatory Zoom meet- tant question and persevere with formation of chloroplast compart- wide service facilities, would not ing. “When I woke at about 6:30 answering it.” ments and in protein trafficking. even have been imagined when I a.m. and checked my email, I Currently, Maureen’s lab focuses Maureen R. Hanson was a student. Scientific confer- wondered why Rick Amasino and on chloroplast and mitochon- drial RNA editing and the use ences are great places to sample many international colleagues Maureen Hanson is a Liberty of photosynthetic biochemistry new areas of research that might were writing to me. The honor Hyde Bailey Professor in the department of molecular biology and synthetic biology to enhance spark your interest.” was completely unexpected, so I and genetics at Cornell University. photosynthesis. “By studying had no inkling that I should get Regine Kahmann Two phone calls reached chloroplasts, we had been indi- up at 3:00 a.m. I was stunned and (International Member) Maureen to inform her of her rectly studying photosynthesis excited as NAS is such an influ- election to NAS when she in the past, but we are now more Regine Kahmann is an ential and esteemed body. Due to happened to be in between directly working on it by taking emeritus director at the Max my previous work in Arabidopsis, meetings. She joined the Zoom a synthetic biology approach to Planck Institute for Terrestrial I have many colleagues in the meeting, where many NAS plant incorporate a carbon-concentra- Microbiology in Marburg, United States, and being elected biologists offered congratula- tion mechanism into chloroplasts Germany. to NAS is the pinnacle of my tions. “I was home in front of my and using a genetic engineering In the early 1980s, Regine career,” Liz said. computer, a spot where I have strategy to improve Rubisco.” decided to explore a new system Liz described research as a spent a lot of time during the Maureen added, “I believe that in the area of plant–microbe group effort: “I have used the pandemic. It occurred to me that engineering photosynthesis will interactions. At the time, the pronoun ‘we’ when describing everyone’s new familiarity with continue to be an important molecular mechanisms under- our research, and this is how it Zoom provided an opportunity area for research into the future lying tumor induction in the is. Having good collaborators is that didn’t exist during most prior as climate change continues to Agrobacterium tumefaciens critical to scientific success. I am elections, and it was nice to see affect agriculture and as natural system had just been uncovered. indebted to my partnerships with the smiling faces of so many diversity for use in plant breeding Although she was very much colleagues and with numerous people I know,” said Maureen. becomes exhausted.” attracted by the Agrobacterium postdoctoral fellows and students, A terrific high school biology Maureen advises PhD scien- system, and especially by how and particularly to my long-term teacher affirmed Maureen’s inter- tists to carefully evaluate their intricately such a microbe had collaborator Jim Peacock, for any est in the life sciences. Then, the goals: “Finishing one’s PhD is evolved to manipulate its host success I have had.” Liz encour- summer after her freshman year at both a milestone and a cross- and cause disease, she felt that ages early career researchers to Duke University, she worked with roads. It is a good time for gradu- the field was far too competi- “find the confidence and believe Edwin Civerolo on a bacterio- ates to carefully evaluate their tive for her small start-up group. in yourself. Working hard and phage that attacks a peach bacteri- goals, rather than proceeding in continued on page 12

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 48, NUMBER 4 11 People

2021 CLASS OF NAS type loci of U. maydis, but the Joseph Kieber continued from page 11 mechanisms underlying patho- Joe Kieber is a Kenan She visited Barbara McClintock, genic development remained Distinguished Professor at the whom she knew from her six unclear because they underappre- University of North Carolina at years at the Cold Spring Harbor ciated the part played by the plant Chapel Hill. Laboratory, and asked for advice. host. Not until the sequence of U. While crossing rice lines in Barbara suggested she look into maydis was available and analyzed the greenhouse, Joe missed the other systems in which microbes did they realize that many genes phone call from his friend and or insects induce plant tumors. encoding novel secreted proteins, colleague Jeff Dangl to break the “I have to admit here that I do so-called effectors, were clustered news of his election. Later, he not like insects, and therefore I in the genome and were expressed noticed that he had been invited concentrated my literature search- only during host colonization. to join a Zoom call to congratu- es on microbes (these were pre- They characterized several effec- late the new NAS members. “At Internet times),” recalled Regine. tors and showed that they are first, it didn’t register with me that However, she did not reach a used for the downregulation of I was one of the new members!” Joseph Kieber decision after her reading. plant immunity and for modula- he recounted. “I was incredibly Fortunately, she participated tion of the metabolism of the thrilled and humbled to hear in an EMBO course on plant host: “These are crucial features of the news and then to hear from began studying ethylene signal- molecular biology, and one of biotrophic pathogens, which need so many friends and colleagues ing when he worked as a post- the instructors, Fred Meins, was to ensure that the infected plant congratulating me. Although of doc with Joe Ecker. At the time, working with Ustilago maydis tissue is kept alive to provide the course this is a wonderful honor very little was known about the with the thought that this fungus pathogen with nutrients.” They for me, it really reflects the amaz- perception of any plant hormone, might be capable of transform- recently identified a surface- ing students and postdocs I have including ethylene. He continued exposed fungal protein complex ing monocot plants, much as A. had in the lab and the many to work on ethylene signaling and that has an essential virulence tumefaciens does for dicots. “It wonderful colleagues I have had the regulation of its biosynthesis function and is proposed to aid in was in his lab that I saw for the the pleasure to work with over the when he started up his own lab. first time a U. maydis–infected delivering effectors to the host. y e ar s .” After much reading and consider- maize plant, and it was clear The news of her election to Science has deep roots in Joe’s ation, Joe decided to address the that the system could be easily NAS reached Regine when she family, which includes chem- signaling pathways of a second handled: The fungus could be was sitting in her office at home, ists, oceanographers, a computer phytohormone, cytokinin, which grown in the lab, small maize working on an autobiographi- programmer, and a physicist. “My at the time was a nearly complete seedlings could be infected, and cal review for Annual Reviews in dad was originally a bacteriolo- black box. Along with other labs, a week later one could score Microbiology. She recalled, “I was gist and ended up teaching in my Joe’s lab helped elucidate the symptoms. Coming from a back- absolutely thrilled and surprised high school, which of course had cytokinin signaling pathway and ground in bacterial genetics, this because I had no idea that I had a major influence on me and the roles that cytokinin plays in all seemed manageable. So when I been proposed. It is such a huge instilled in me a love of science,” returned from that course, I knew honor, and to get recognized for Joe reflected. His lifelong fasci- plant growth and development, I had found my new system,” work on a nonmodel organism is nation with plants (a passion particularly in Arabidopsis. More Regine reflected. simply wonderful and immensely for gardening started at an early recently, Joe’s lab has also studied Since then, Regine’s lab has gratifying.” age) and his undergraduate lab the role of cytokinin in rice, as studied U. maydis: “It is a fasci- Regine encourages early experience at Cornell got him well as the signaling pathways nating fungus, because mating, career researchers to “take chanc- really excited about research: that regulate the synthesis of sexual development, and ability es, identify a biological problem “I decided to pursue a career cellulose, the main component of to cause disease are intimately that fascinates you, try to solve in plant science to understand plant cell walls. linked. My simple (and in retro- it—and do not give up.” She is basic questions about how plants Joe encourages early career spect, a bit naive) idea at the time also particularly happy and grate- grow and develop, which I hoped researchers to “find areas of was that if one could understand ful that at all the institutes where would ultimately contribute to research that are not already mating, one would understand she has worked (and there are helping address food shortages in crowded, and do not be afraid what triggers disease.” Regine’s many), a few colleagues became the world.” to set off in completely new group cloned and elucidated the close friends, “and these are Joe’s research focuses on directions. Focus on the ques- function of the a and b mating wonderful, lasting friendships.” signal transduction in plants. He tions most interesting to you,

12 ASPB NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 People

Staskawicz was doing a sabbati- cal at The Sainsbury Laboratory. He went to meet Brian and later joined the lab. “It was a really exciting time to join his lab: There were many projects attempting to clone disease resistance genes from multiple plant species. This was pioneering at that time, as no one had positionally cloned a gene from plants,” Giles recalled. With an interest in understanding the beneficial interactions between plants and Zachary Lippman Giles E. D. Oldroyd microorganisms that facilitate the capture of limiting nutrients from the environment, Giles’s and acquire the tools needed to the experience made him appre- deep understanding of genotype- lab focuses on arbuscular mycor- address these questions or collab- ciate the importance of farming to-phenotype relationships so that rhizal fungal and nitrogen-fixing orate when needed. Develop and agriculture to humanity. He any complex trait can be predict- bacterial associations. His work close-knit relationships with chose to major in plant breeding ably modified for any purpose.” involves understanding the colleagues with whom you can and genetics at Cornell and later Zach advises early career symbiosis signaling pathway and freely discuss your ideas.” studied transposons and epigen- researchers to “love what you how it establishes the develop- etic gene regulation for his PhD do in your scientific pursuits. mental and cellular environments Zachary Lippman at CSHL. Otherwise, what’s the point? It is that support symbiotic micro- Zach Lippman is the Jacob Zach reflected, “I’m always an incredibly exciting time to be organisms. They are applying Goldfield Professor of Genetics thinking about questions of in plant biology, and the future this foundational knowledge to at the Cold Spring Harbor evolutionary diversity in nature looks even more exciting. I am improve crops and maximize the Laboratory (CSHL) and an in- and in agriculture and the inter- hopeful and optimistic that plant benefits of these symbioses. Giles’s vestigator at the Howard Hughes section of the two, and how natu- biology and plant biologists will vision is to eradicate the need for Medical Institute. ral mutations have contributed to be at the forefront of addressing inorganic fertilizers to drive the The news that he had been human-driven evolutionary selec- some of humanity’s most pressing sustainability and equity of global elected to NAS reached Zach on tions.” In exploring and seeking problems. With the brains, tools, food production: “I believe this a special day. “I was visiting my to understand the complex genet- and drive, we can get there.” is possible, and I plan to spend parents, whom I had not seen in ics that have led to the diversity the next 20 years of my career Giles E. D. Oldroyd a very long time,” he recalled. “I of crops, Zach’s lab studies how focused on making this happen.” was sitting with them and sharing mutations—in genes and their (International Member) Several phone calls broke some recent cool discoveries in regulatory regions—contribute to Giles Oldroyd is the Russell R. the news to Giles while he was the lab when I received the phone phenotypic variation. How and Geiger Professor of Crop Sciences cooking dinner at home. He was call with the news. It was a special where do mutations arise? What and director of the Crop Science shocked and delighted. He joined moment to first share the excite- effects do they have on gene activ- Centre at the University of the celebratory Zoom call, which ment with them, and then my ity and function? To what extent Cambridge, United Kingdom. had three Zoom pages of the great wife and six children.” do genes and mutations interact It was chance that brought and good in plant science. “It “For unknown reasons, I have to control quantitative trait varia- Giles to working with plants. highlighted the honor of joining always been deeply fascinated by tion? Can we extract principles His undergraduate program in such a fellowship,” he noted. plants,” explained Zach, “especial- from what we are learning in the the United Kingdom provided Giles encourages early ly how, with just a few seeds and lab and apply them in the field? the opportunity to study abroad career researchers to follow their a bit of a green thumb, you can These and many other questions at the University of California. passion: “You need to love the have this remarkable production keep Zach going. He thinks that Knowing that he had a place at work you are doing. When I am of free food.” At a young age, Zach “by tackling these questions as UC Berkeley, someone in his involved in recruiting new scien- worked on a vegetable farm, and a community, we can achieve a department told him that Brian continued on page 16

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 48, NUMBER 4 13 People

This article was first published April 14, 2021, on the University of Bonn website https://bit.ly/3AlLAk0( ). It is adapted here with permission from the University of Bonn. Amy Marshall-Colon Receives Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award

hat effects does envi- resonated not only with a small ronmentally induced group of specialists but also with a Wstress have on crops, wider audience of scientists from and how can these effects be pre- diverse disciplines,” said Nora dicted? Amy Marshall-Colon is Berning, PhenoRob’s chief adminis- working on this question at the trative officer. Amy’s research topic University of Illinois at Urbana– attracts researchers from various Champaign and, soon, also as a fields, including genetics, plant biol- guest professor at the Robotics ogy, and crop physiology, as well and Phenotyping for Sustainable as geodesy, photogrammetry and Crop Production (PhenoRob) robotics, soil sciences, and agricul- Cluster of Excellence at the tural policy. All of these disciplines University of Bonn in Germany. are represented in PhenoRob with She has received a Friedrich the overarching goal of explor- Wilhelm Bessel Research ing new ways to grow crops and Award from the Alexander von manage fields sustainably. Humboldt Foundation, endowed PhenoRob is one of six with €45,000. To conduct her re- PHOTO BY JORDAN GOEBIG, ISEE Clusters of Excellence at the search, Amy will be in Bonn from University of Bonn and is carried May 15 to August 15, 2022. out in cooperation with the Every year, the Alexander von New York University and Purdue temperatures caused by climate Forschungszentrum Jülich. It is Humboldt Foundation awards University. She develops models change. She is exploring the the only Cluster of Excellence around 20 Friedrich Wilhelm that show how plants respond to underlying genetic and molecular in Germany in the agricultural Bessel Research Awards to inter- environmental perturbations on mechanisms of nitrogen use effi- sciences. The project started on nationally renowned research- the basis of their genetic charac- ciency with an eye to preventing January 1, 2019, and will run ers from abroad in recognition teristics. “Amy’s research activi- nitrogen loss leading to air and until the end of 2025, with the of their outstanding research ties are outstanding, particularly water pollution. Her models are possibility to receive funding for achievements. The award bears her achievements in developing constructed to provide a better another seven years. The Clusters the name of the German astrono- mathematical multiscale models understanding of plant growth of Excellence are part of the mer and mathematician Friedrich to analyze gene-by-environment processes and to support the excellence strategy of the federal Wilhelm Bessel (1784–1846) and interactions,” noted Frank Ewert, breeding of crops that can with- and state governments and are is funded by the Federal Ministry PI at the Cluster, who nominated stand stressful environments. funded by the German Research of Education and Research. her for the award and with whom Amy has given several lectures Foundation. PhenoRob is led Amy is professor of plant biol- she has already collaborated. at the PhenoRob Seminar Series by two spokespersons, Heiner ogy at the University of Illinois Among other things, Amy and the Cluster’s flagship confer- Kuhlmann and Cyrill Stachniss. at Urbana–Champaign and investigates how plants take ence DigiCrop 2020. “What’s More information can be found at previously conducted research at up nitrogen fertilizer in higher special is that her presentations www.phenorob.de. 

14 ASPB NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 People

Niba Audrey Nirmal, 2021 ASPB/AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellow, Working at Complexly this Summer

iba Audrey Nirmal has plant science and media produc- Science Studio, she is leading high been awarded the 2021 tion, Niba created Notes by Niba schoolers in producing scientific NASPB/AAAS Mass Media (notesbyniba.org), in which she videos. She also produced videos Science & Engineering Fellowship. explores plant science in cosmet- through her graduate-level digital Over the summer, she is working ics, fashion, and skin care. She science communication course at at SciShow of Complexly, a digital received the 2020 STEM Advocacy the University of North Carolina, video and audio production com- Institute Fellowship for her chan- Charlotte. She has also created arti- pany with over 23 million com- nel @NotesByNiba. She was also cles and short videos with Stanford bined followers. awarded a 2020 Jackson Wild film- Linear Acceleratory Laboratory. Niba received her MS in making fellowship, in which she Niba will continue to cre- December 2020 from Duke was mentored by filmmakers from ate scientific content through University, studying the develop- National Geographic and BBC. multimedia formats as an ASPB/ ment, form, and function of plant Since graduating from Duke, AAAS Mass Media Science & roots in Philip Benfey’s lab. Niba Niba has hosted, taught, and Engineering Fellow and hopes to received her undergraduate degree produced videos. She writes and further flora appreciation in the from the University of California, Niba is passionate about plant hosts videos for Seeker, a digital public. She is excited to be work- Davis, where she investigated the science, the climate crisis, and science communication company ing at Complexly’s SciShow and is effects of climate change on crops science storytelling through with over 6.5 million combined grateful to ASPB for providing the in Siobhan Brady’s lab. video. To pursue her passions for followers. At the PBS NOVA opportunity. 

OUTREACH IN PLANT SCIENCE solutions that involve other disci- unsuccessful past attempts to now to improve outreach in your continued from page 7 plines and societal input. broadly introduce GMO plants community, including encouraging Joanna stressed that outreach (and the continuing struggle to universities to recognize outreach tists themselves to be informed should also provide opportuni- this day) provide lessons on the as a valued component of academic about public perspectives, values, ties for scientists to broaden need to better incorporate societal excellence and to add a service and concerns. Joanna noted that their own knowledge and experi- perspectives and concerns into component to PhD training. Please many scientists are not trained ence base. Listening to relevant research, education, and commu- have a look at this paper and to engage with social issues or to communities can underpin nication of risks and benefits. consider its findings when plan- fully consider the context of plant more holistic approaches in Clearly, scientists and the ning outreach activities.  science research within society. experimental design, including public will benefit from more Reference As an example, she pointed out what questions are posed, what dialogue and opportunities to Friesner, J., Colón-Carmona, A., that plant scientists often suggest the metrics are, how results are learn from one another. The white Schnoes, A. M., . . . Dinneny, J. R. that our discipline will solve framed, what future research is paper provides several examples of (2021). Broadening the impact of hunger through intensification called for, and who is involved in successful outreach programs and plant science through innovative, and increased yield, without the research process (e.g., proj- many suggestions for designing, integrative, and inclusive outreach. also acknowledging their other ects developed in collaboration assessing, and disseminating such Plant Direct 5: e00316. https:// contributions or the need for with farmers, small growers, and programs. There is also an eight- onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ plant science to be part of larger Indigenous peoples). Scientists’ step guide to what you can do pld3.316

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 48, NUMBER 4 15 People

Haley Dunleavy Awarded 2021 AAAS Ralph W. F. Hardy Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship

aley Dunleavy, a re- Haley’s love for Arctic ecosys- the LTER Network, where she cent graduate from tems developed as an undergrad- focused on depicting the human HNorthern Arizona uate at Alaska Pacific University, experience of science—for exam- University (NAU), has been where she received her BS in ple, by detailing the full body selected as a 2021 AAAS Ralph environmental science. There, she movements for taking cores from W. F. Hardy Mass Media Science witnessed the extensive impacts permafrost soils and reflecting on & Engineering Fellow. She will of climate change on northern the quieter moments of research, spend 10 weeks this summer latitudes. such as what it means to tend to training as a science journalist at Both the urgency of a an experiment for decades. Her Inside Climate News. changing North and the innate writing has appeared on the radio Haley earned her PhD in wonder of ecology fueled Haley’s show Earth Notes, produced by biology under the advisement of passion to pursue a career in NPR affiliate KNAU. Michelle Mack at NAU’s Center communicating science to the Haley is thrilled to dive for Ecosystem Science and Society. public. During her degree, Haley deeper into stories of climate Her dissertation focused on earned a graduate certificate science and action this summer. responses of root symbionts to in science communication and She thanks the sponsorship of the shifts in tundra plant communi- explored how mycorrhizal nutrient served as an outreach fellow with Ralph W. F. Hardy Endowment in ties. Working with both the Arctic cycling and nitrogen fixation—two NAU’s McAllister Program in honor of a scientist whose legacy and Bonanza Creek Long Term key processes in tundra ecosys- Culture, Community, and the in both biochemistry and the Ecological Research (LTER) tems—may change as host shrubs Environment. Additionally, she public understanding of science Network sites in Alaska, she expand across the warming Arctic. was a graduate science writer for serves as inspiration. 

2021 CLASS OF NAS competitive by strategically prior- community is increasing. I made ing your differences is the only continued from page 13 itizing their focus. the mistake early on of down- way we can drive change in our tists at all levels, I am looking for Reflecting on his career, Giles playing my queerness at work, community. Don’t fall into the evidence of that passion. When emphasizes the importance of because that is what I thought a trap I fell in; be authentically you interview, don’t be ashamed being authentic: “Plant science successful scientist looked like. yourself at work, and be proud of to let your feelings show; it’s leadership is not very diverse. If This had significant impacts on who you are, even when you don’t refreshing to see excitement when you feel like an outsider, that is my life and on my mental health. see anyone else who looks like someone talks about their work.” normal. There are plenty of us I wasn’t serving myself, or my y ou .”  He encourages new scientists that do not fit the ‘norm,’ and in community. I know it is hard to make themselves maximally my opinion the diversity of our to be an outsider, but express-

16 ASPB NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 Membership Corner

ASPB members share a common goal of promoting the growth, development, and outreach of plant biology as a pure and applied science. This column features some of the dedicated and innovative members of ASPB who believe that membership in our Society is crucial to the future of plant biology. If you are interested in contributing to this feature, please contact ASPB Membership at [email protected].

What advice would you give to a Patrick Thomas plant scientist just starting out? Sounds cliché, but: Learn to code. It makes everything you do easier Title: Graduate Student and faster. It also makes you more Place of Work or School: University of California, Riverside competitive. Member Since: 2019 What do you see as the most Research Area: Genetics, Bioinformatics, Plant–Pathogen important role for scientific Interactions (Whitefly Resistance in Alfalfa) societies such as ASPB? Societies like ASPB have many roles. Aside from being a What would you tell colleagues Have you enhanced your career, networking hub for scientists, to encourage them to join lab, research, or education using they also have a role to play with ASPB? ASPB, the Plant Biology meet- nonscientists. Professional societies do a considerable amount of Professional societies are impor- ings, section meetings, Plantae. more niche than the medical science communication and help tant for building relationships in org, The Plant Cell, Plant science everyone I knew wanted convey our work to scientists and the discipline. There have always Physiology, or Plant Direct? to pursue, so I stuck with plants. nonscientists alike. Having folks been opportunities to get involved The Plant Biology meetings have What is your favorite thing who understand the work but in activities surrounding ASPB, been a great place to meet folks, about being a plant biologist? know how to communicate makes which has broadened my profes- and the travel grant program iterating the importance of our sional network. As an early career was so helpful in allowing me to The diversity in my workday. field that much easier. scientist, I already appreciate attend. I hadn’t been to a Plant There are days when I’m in the greenhouse managing an experi- the network I’ve built, and being Biology meeting before, so going What are you reading these ment, but I also have the luxury involved with the Early Career to Plant Biology 2019 was a great days? Plant Scientist (ECPS) Section introduction to the Society. The of coding from my desk at home. Aside from Penn State football has challenged me to be the best section meeting was where I The diversity of means to answer previews on The Athletic, I am science communicator and liaison met a number of folks involved questions in plant biology has to currently working on Before the for plant biology I can be. with the ECPS Section and the be one of the things I enjoy most Mayflower by Lerone Bennett Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion about what I do. Jr. and Sprawlball by Kirk Was someone instrumental in Committee. I’ve enjoyed working How do you gather scientific Goldsberry. getting you to join ASPB? with them and hope to do more information? What are your I don’t think any one person in the future. sources? What are your hobbies? played an instrumental role in my Outside of the lab, I enjoy basket- joining ASPB. I had been aware of How and why did you get into I usually use a Google Alert to ball, podcasts (on a Knowledge the Society since my undergradu- plant science? drop papers in my mailbox for Fight run right now), baking, and ate years but felt a stronger push I chose plant biology because terms tangentially related to my being eternally disappointed that to join in grad school once I was although my parents wanted me dissertation and sift through them Penn State can’t beat Ohio State in around more folks associated with to be a doctor, I didn’t, but I really that way. My PI also has a tenden- football nearly every fall.  the Society. liked science. My high school was cy to nudge papers that might one of a few with an urban/subur- be of interest to me. I’m also not ban FFA chapter, and we focused afraid to do a quick and dirty on plant research. Plants seemed Google search if I need something very specific.

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 48, NUMBER 4 17 Science Policy

The information in this article was Policy Update accurate at the time of writing. BY VICTORIA HABER Lewis-Burke Associates, LLC

Congressional Updates $50 million to support agricultural Phenome program and urges House and Senate NSF climate science. additional focus on root stocks Authorization Bills House Appropriations Within the National Institute that increase carbon capture Continue to Progress Committee Releases of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), and can support grain crop On June 8, the Senate passed the Agriculture Report many signature research and covers. In addition, the com- Endless Frontier Act as part of a gi- extension programs would see mittee supports the develop- On June 29, the House Appropri ant package containing innovation, modest funding increases. The ment of tools and datasets for ations Committee unveiled its trade, and research security legis- Agriculture and Food Research the analysis of phenotypes that fiscal year (FY) 2022 Agriculture, lation called the U.S. Innovation Initiative (AFRI) would receive can be used across multiple Rural Development, Food and and Competition Act of 2021 $450 million, an increase of $15 livestock and crop species to Drug Administration, and Related (USICA). The bipartisan vote of million over the FY2021 enacted Agencies appropriations bill improve the output and effi- 68–32 indicated strong support for level but much less than the and accompanying report. The ciency of agriculture.” investment in research and tech- requested $700 million. bill would provide $26.55 bil- y Next Generation Crops: The nology development as key planks As with ARS, the report lion in discretionary funding for committee encourages “the for enhanced competitiveness and singles out numerous areas of USDA and the Food and Drug development of new, econom- economic revitalization across sev- interest within NIFA, including Administration, of which more ically viable crops to improve eral federal agencies. the following: than $3.3 billion would fund ag- the nation’s agricultural out- USICA would prioritize 10 y Farm of the Future: The com- ricultural research, $321 million put and applications.” key technology focus areas such over the FY2021 enacted level. mittee encourages further y Specialty Crop Research as artificial intelligence, advanced ARS, USDA’s intramural integration of “applied re- Initiative: The committee computing, resilience, advanced research arm, would receive $1.637 search in precision agriculture, highlights the importance communications, wireless research, billion for its salaries and expenses smart automation, resilient of “addressing the needs of energy innovation, and biotechnol- account, $145.3 million or 9.7% agricultural practices, applied the specialty crop industry ogy. In addition to reauthorizing above the FY2021 level and $21.5 socioeconomics, and improved through research and exten- NSF, the bill includes several major million below the budget request. crop varieties from advanced sion activities” and encour- innovation provisions for the agen- The report highlights more than genomics and phenotyping ages “NIFA to address tools, cy, including a new Technology and 75 activities within ARS, ranging across varied landscapes and growing techniques, and Innovation Directorate to focus on from alfalfa research to human locations to advance data- technology emissions.” The research and development in the nutrition throughout the lifespan driven solutions to increase matching requirement would key technology areas, University to precision agriculture. The productivity, integrate technol- once again be removed. Technology Centers to advance report states that ARS is “uniquely ogy, create value-added agri- use-inspired research, technology y positioned to develop agricultural cultural products, and enhance Pests and Beneficial Species test beds, and other activities to solutions to climate change on a connectivity and resilience for Program: The committee enhance commercialization and national, regional, and local scale. thriving rural communities.” highlights that “projects that technology transfer capabilities. The committee recommends fund- $6 million would be provided use agro-acoustics to manage The bill would also authorize $100 ing for the Administration’s clean for this activity. pests are eligible for AFRI billion for the new directorate, 20% energy and climate science goals y Genome to Phenome: The awards.” of which would be designated to in targeted areas to build upon bill includes $2 million for Sources and Additional Information support research in the key tech- ongoing research activities and the Agricultural Genome to nology focus areas through the y lay the groundwork for innova- Phenome Initiative, a $1 mil- The report can be found at Established Program to Stimulate tive approaches in the future.” To lion increase over FY2021. The https://tinyurl.com/6zsbcd2w. Competitive Research. In addition, that end, the bill would provide committee instructs “NIFA to y Lewis-Burke’s full analysis $16.9 billion would be authorized $20 million in support of clean use a competitive process to of the report can be found at for the DOE Office of Science to energy research and an additional issue awards in the Genome to https://tinyurl.com/3j64ba6w. fund the same focus areas.

18 ASPB NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 Science Policy

The legislation now heads to or appointed. Recently, two more Federal Agency and increase in research spending in the House of Representatives, confirmations took place that Administration Updates some key areas of priority to the which is aiming to produce its will play an important role in the environmental research commu- own package of competitive- research community. On May 28, President’s Budget Request nity. Some significant initiatives ness legislation to be voted on the Senate confirmed Eric Lander Highlights Importance of worth highlighting include the as individual bills. The furthest as director of the White House Climate and Environmental following: along of these bills are the DOE Office of Science and Technology Research y $500 million for a new Science for the Future Act and Policy, which has been elevated to President Biden has released Advanced Research Projects the NSF for the Future Act. The a cabinet-level position. Lander, a the full details of his first budget Agency for Climate, managed NSF for the Future Act would mathematician and geneticist, will proposal to Congress, which by DOE but funded in collab (among other provisions) also play a key role in advising and includes a proposed 18% boost oration with other agencies. create a new NSF director- advancing President Biden’s re- in discretionary spending for a However, this program did ate to support collaborative, search agenda, including climate total of $1.522 trillion. Climate not receive any proposed use-inspired, and translational change and scientific competi- and clean energy are among the funding through the House research but is generally less tion. Also confirmed by Senate administration’s top FY2022 Appropriations bills. prescriptive than USICA about vote was Deputy Secretary of budget priorities, which also y Increases to major environ- its proposed activities. Both USDA Jewel Bronaugh. Bronaugh include public health, innova- mental research funding agen- measures advanced through the has a long, distinguished career tion, and education. The budget cies. DOE would be funded at full House Science, Space, and advocating for small and mid- request kicks off the FY2022 con- $46.2 billion, a $4.4 billion or Technology Committee on June sized farmers and ranchers and gressional appropriations process; 10% increase compared with developing strategies to meet 15 and were passed by the full however, the timing for passing the FY2021 enacted level. environmental and water qual- House of Representatives on June final versions of funding bills This includes $500 million, a ity goals, which will be critical at 28. House leadership has charged remains uncertain, and the late $100 million increase, for the USDA as it works toward achiev- all committees of relevance to start to the appropriations pro- Advanced Research Projects ing its resilience and sustainabil- produce additional competitive- cess increases the likelihood of Agency for Energy; $9 bil- ity goals. Most recently, Sanah ness legislation. The House and a continuing resolution to avoid lion, a $5.8 billion increase, Baig was named USDA’s chief Senate are likely to use an infor- a government shutdown and for DOE applied energy pro- of staff for Research, Education, mal conference negotiation to continue to fund federal agencies grams; and $422 million, an and Economics. Although Baig produce a final package merging beyond September 30, which is increase of $71 million or 20% is new to this role, she had six USICA and relevant House- the end of FY2021. Congressional above the FY2021 enacted years of experience working at Democrats are largely supportive passed bills. This final package level, for Earth and environ- USDA under the Obama–Biden of the initiatives laid out in the could be passed on its own or ride mental systems sciences. administration, where she served president’s budget request, but major must-pass legislation later y The discretionary programs as an adviser in the Office of the congressional Republicans are in the year. within USDA’s NIFA would Secretary, a special adviser in concerned that the proposal does see an increase of $386 mil- Sources and Additional Information Rural Development, and a confi- not provide sufficient funding for lion, or 23.9%, compared with y dential assistant in the Marketing the Department of Defense and Information on USICA is the FY2021 enacted level. and Regulatory Programs mission are wary of increasing the federal available at https://tinyurl. ARS would see an increase of area. deficit through large levels of com/f8bahcmk. $358 million, or 19.3%. This spending on domestic programs. y Information about the NSF Sources and Additional Information would be the first year that Overall, the budget request for the Future Act is avail- y More information on Eric the Agriculture Advanced affirms Biden’s commitment to able at https://tinyurl.com/ Lander’s confirmation can Research and Development taking a cross-cutting approach u2ajyz5f. be found at https://tinyurl. Authority (AgARDA) would to both climate change and com/58kbw4kk. see funding. The program, au- environmental justice, with thorized in the 2018 Farm Bill, Senate Confirms Key Biden • The press release on Jewel significant boosts proposed across would be funded at $5 million Administration Nominees Bronaugh’s confirmation can environment-focused agencies and would likely support preci- Nearly four and half months into be found at https://tinyurl. in these areas. Although much of sion and digital agriculture and the Biden administration, agency com/3j722ctn. the funding increase is devoted climate-related research proj- and department leadership posi- to activities to combat climate tions have mostly been confirmed change directly, there is a sizable continued on page 20

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 48, NUMBER 4 19 Science Policy

POLICY UPDATE USDA Releases Progress 2. Develop a CSAF strategy that research on landscape-scale conser- continued from page 19 Report on Climate-Smart works for all farmers, ranch- vation and management practices, Agriculture and Forestry ers, forest landowners, and the potential of new CSAF tech- ects. Crop Protection and Pest communities nologies, the impact of climate Management would receive Strategy change on agriculture and forests, flat funding for FY2022. The 3. Leverage existing USDA In response to President Biden’s and the financial implications of Minor Crop Pest Managem ent programs to support CSAF January 27 Climate Crisis climate change for agriculture- Program (IR-4) had a proposed strategies Executive Order, USDA compiled dependent communities. The increase of $8 million. a report titled Climate-Smart 4. Strengthen education, train- president’s budget request reflected Agriculture and Forestry Strategy: ing, and technical assistance Sources and Additional Information the administration’s commitment 90-Day Progress Report with rec- for CSAF practices to many of these recommendations, y The President’s budget request ommendations for climate-smart such as investing in and strengthen- is available at https://tinyurl. 5. Support new and better agriculture and forestry (CSAF) ing the role of USDA Climate Hubs com/yvcaduum, although markets for agriculture and to enhance climate change mitiga- to help pinpoint regional climate each agency provides budget forestry products generated tion and resilience. USDA was vulnerabilities and proposing fund- details in separate budget jus- through CSAF practices tasked with developing tangible ing increases for climate initiatives tifications. 6. Develop a forest and wildfire steps to decrease climate change– within AFRI, ARS, and AgARDA. y Lewis-Burke’s full analysis of incited wildfires, source sustain- resilience strategy Source and Additional Information President Biden’s budget re- able bioproducts and fuels, and 7. Improve research. reduce carbon through conserva- y The full report can be found quest, which includes links to USDA has identified several tion and sequestration, so the at https://tinyurl.com/y84k- agency budget justifications, thrusts for improving research report includes recommendations 8bpw.  is available at https://tinyurl. and making it more inclusive of in seven priority areas: com/daz9uz28. all stakeholders, specifically work- 1. Prepare USDA to quantify, ing to include input from tribes. track, and report the benefits The report recommends increased of CSAF activities development and investment in

Call for Papers 2022 Focus Issue on Circadian Rhythms Edited by Stacey Harmer, Alex Webb, and Christian Fankhauser

Submission Deadline: November 1, 2021 Publication Date: July/August 2022

For more information, go to http://bit.ly/Circadian-Rhythms

20 ASPB NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 Education Forum

Plant BLOOME 2021 Winners

SPB established the professor, Department of Genetics, Plant Biology Learning Development and Cell Biology, AObjectives, Outreach and Alexis Campbell, director of Materials, & Education (Plant the ISU Science Bound program. BLOOME) grant program with Our collaborative female scientist the goal to enhance public aware- team will provide hands-on plant ness and understanding of the biology laboratory experiences essential roles of plants in all areas at ISU for underserved precol- of life (http://bloome.aspb.org). lege students in partnership with Congratulations to the 2021 ASPB the ISU Science Bound program Plant BLOOME grant recipients! during the 2021–2022 academic calendar. Through the generous The Legume–Rhizobium support of the Plant BLOOME Mutualism: A Model for grant, we have designed three Inquiry in the Classroom Michael Grillo Dior Kelley hands-on educational Science PI: Michael Grillo Bound Saturday events geared toward eighth- and ninth-grade Loyola University of Chicago ence with inquiry and scientific classrooms. In the summer of students. Additionally, this grant The plant–microbe mutualism research. Moreover, teachers rare- 2022, the teaching modules will will launch a new five-day campus between legumes and nitrogen- ly take plant-specific courses and be presented at ASPB and teacher residential program for 10th- and fixing bacteria (rhizobia) is one thereby have limited exposure conferences, as well as in relevant 11th-grade Science Bound students of the most economically and to and low comfort levels with websites and journals. Although to be offered in summer 2022. ecologically significant interac- plant biology content. Thus, a the results of this work will be These educational activities tions on Earth. This classic sym- secondary goal of this project is to disseminated broadly, this project will cultivate multidisciplinary biosis also presents considerable provide Research Experiences for is well suited to provide classroom research experiences for Science potential as a K–12 classroom Teachers (RET) using legume– materials and exposure to plants Bound students through hands- model for engaging students in rhizobium experiments in Grillo’s for students in Chicago Public on involvement with microscopy, scientific inquiry and plant biol- lab. Mentoring teachers allows Schools, many of whom are under- plant phenotyping, and basic ogy. Most existing teaching ma- this project to have lasting bene- served and from underrepresented coding using maize root systems terials involving this system are fits and reach a large and diverse backgrounds in STEM. grown in a controlled environ- largely composed of stand-alone, population of students. This ment system. The students will cookbook-style experiments proposal greatly benefits from Amaizing Roots: gain new knowledge about root with limited opportunities for partnership with the NSF-funded Adventures in RStudio growth and development in authentic student investigation. Loyola University of Chicago PI: Dior Kelley the “amaizing” crop Zea mays, The primary goal of this Plant (LUC) Robert Noyce Teacher acquire new experience with plant Iowa State University BLOOME project is to train high Scholarship Program, which is growth regulators such as auxin school teachers to develop, imple- directed by co-PI Lara Smetana. Plants are a fundamental compo- and cytokinin, and develop basic ment, and revise Next Generation RET participants will be recruited nent of a healthy and sustainable quantitative phenotyping skills Science Standards–aligned labo- from the LUC–Noyce Teacher future for our world. As plant using ImageJ and RStudio. ratory materials to complement Scholar alumni who currently scientists, we are responsible for We will use pre- and post- Grade 9–12 biology instructional teach high school biology in increasing plant awareness, espe- event surveys to assess students’ storylines. Chicago Public Schools. cially at critical educational tran- interests in plant and data scienc- More and more teachers are During the summer of 2021, sition points. es. In addition, we will be able asked to implement inquiry-based three RET participants will The Iowa State University (ISU) to compile longitudinal demo- approaches in the classroom—a conduct research in Grillo’s lab Plant BLOOME team consists of PI graphic data through the Science difficult task, as most teachers and develop teaching modules Dior Kelley, assistant professor, and have not had personal experi- they will then implement in their Renu Srivastava, assistant teaching continued on page 23

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 48, NUMBER 4 21 Education Forum

Announcing the 2021 ASPB Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows (SURF)

he ASPB Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows (SURF) program funds promising undergraduate students so they can conduct research in plant biology during the early part of their college career over the course of 10 consecutive weeks. This year’s SURF recipients will present Ttheir research at Plant Biology 2022. Congratulations to the 2021 Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows and their mentors! SURFers from Doctoral Granting Institutions

Amanda Dee Patricia Gallardo Ashley Knight Harper Lowrey Northeastern University Iowa State University Colorado State University Yale University Project: Developing and imple- Project: Role of isoflavones in the Project: Screening for resistance in Project: Functional studies of an menting an inducible synthetic resistance of Glycine max against Colorado wheat varieties for wheat F-box gene that links the circadian biology tool for regulating alkaloid Aphis glycines Matsumura streak mosaic virus and stripe rust clock to plant growth biosynthesis in Catharanthus Mentor: Gustavo MacIntosh resistance Mentor: Joshua Gendron roseus Mentor: Robyn Roberts Receiving the ASPB SURF award It is such an honor to receive Mentor: Carolyn Lee-Parsons is an incredible honor. This I am honored to receive the ASPB an ASPB SURF grant, and I am grateful to my mentor for always I am incredibly grateful for the will give me the opportunity to SURF award, and I thank my supporting me and my research. opportunity to continue plant bi- continue my research during the mentor for helping me get here. ology research through the ASPB I am excited for the opportunity summer and then present my This fellowship allows me to start SURF program! This award will to dive deep into plant research of findings at Plant Biology 2022, developing my research skills in allow me to advance my research my own this summer, and I know which will be invaluable as I the plant biology field while using career while also providing the the depth of this project and the prepare for graduate school. my background in microbiology. opportunity to share my work at structure of ASPB support will Plant Biology 2022. I know that this opportunity will help me develop as a scientist in help me as I approach graduate and out of the lab. school and work my way toward a career in plant biology.

22 ASPB NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 Education Forum

SURFers from Doctoral Granting SURFers from Primarily Undergraduate Institutions Institutions (continued)

Lauren Owens Miriam Li Katherine Stegemann Alyka Zahnd Cornell University Williams College Marian University Missouri Western State University Project: Identification and char- Project: Biochemical investiga- Project: Determining the local- Project: Offense and defense acterization of ORHis suppressors tion of anthranilate phosphoribo- ization of O-polysaccharides and strategies in plants’ chemical in the mutated ORHis Arabidopsis syltransferase in plants building a molecular model for warfare for resources and survival: thaliana Mentor: Cynthia Holland OPS function in Arabidopsis Can native “heroes” rescue other Mentor: Li Li thaliana native plant species, sensitive to I am honored and excited to Mentor: Carina Collins allelopathic inhibition, triggered by Receiving the ASPB SURF have this opportunity to do highly competitive invasive species? award is an honor that will prove research in plant biology this I am blessed and grateful for the opportunity to carry out research Mentor: Csengele Barta invaluable in my pursuit of a summer. Participating in the as an ASPB Summer Undergrad- graduate degree as it provides me ASPB SURF program will I am honored to receive a 2021 uate Research Fellow. Performing with experience in conducting prepare me for a future science SURF grant, and I thank ASPB for this research will further my aca- career and allow me to spend selecting my proposal. Working research, presenting my findings, demic career past undergraduate this summer completing mean- on this project will give me full and interacting with others in my studies and fuel my passion for field. I am grateful to my mentor ingful work that will build on plant biology into the future. Par- ownership of a scientific inves- for pushing me to apply and for our collective understanding of ticipating in Plant Biology 2022 tigation, from planning through the opportunity to further explore the natural world around us. will allow me to make invaluable experimentation to analysis and chromoplast biosynthesis in connections in the plant biology presentation, while learning and mutant Arabidopsis thaliana. community and share my work practicing skills essential for a with students and scientists who professional and research career. share a similar passion. Developing this project is also a wonderful opportunity to learn more about plant–plant interactions and conduct applied research that is relevant to invasive species PLANT BLOOME WINNERS tional activities to the plant through ISU funding and control, an area I am particularly continued from page 21 biology community will support via the Science Bound interested in as a wildlife conser- Bound program, which works include a poster presentation program and the Department of vation and management major. with students through a five-year at Plant Biology 2022 and an Genetics, Development and Cell I am looking forward to sharing precollege program and a total of electronic tool kit outlining Biology.  my results with the plant science nine years if they attend ISU. the materials and methods community and networking with Our dissemination plan for the hands-on activities. peers and professionals at Plant to communicate these educa- This project will be sustained Biology 2022. 

ASPB NEWS | VOLUME 48, NUMBER 4 23 PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT ROCKVILLE MD American Society of Plant Biologists AND ADDITIONAL 15501 Monona Drive MAILING OFFICES Rockville, MD 20855-2768 USA

Call for Papers

2022 Focus Issue on Evolution of Plant Structure and Function Edited by Elizabeth A. Kellogg, Jill C. Preston, Neelima R. Sinha, and Keiko Torii

Submission Deadline: January 1, 2022 Publication Date: September 2022

For more information, go to https://bit.ly/PlantStructureFunction

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