News

New resource for breeding better soybeans

Published on November 15, 2024
New data repository allows plant breeders to see trends in resistance gene efficacy.
PSM students and faculty present at World Food Prize 2024 event

Published on November 7, 2024
Thousands attend PSM presentations at Borlaug Dialogue
Potato team gears up for new project in Rwanda

Published on October 30, 2024
The Rwanda Agricultural Biotechnology Program aims to improve the productivity and resilience of three staple crops — cassava, maize, and potato.
STEAM Expo Weekend to feature plant research at MSU

Published on October 30, 2024
Consider joining us to present the best of MSU plant science!
Research published in Nature opens door for advancements in MSU wheat genetics

Published on October 29, 2024
Eric Olson, an associate professor in the MSU Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, was part of a research team studying the origin and evolution of the bread wheat D genome. Findings were recently published in Nature.
MSU Soil Judging Places 4th Regionally and Qualifies for the National Contest in 2025

Published on October 18, 2024
The MSU team, coached by Dr. Barret Wessel and assistant coaches Bernard Frantz, Mason Rutgers, and Chris Baish, qualified for the National Soil Judging Contest in the spring 2025 semester.
Jaime Wilbur wins MSU Outstanding Supervisor Award

Published on October 18, 2024
PSM Faculty member selected for award among nearly two dozen nominees university-wide.
New director named for MSU Institute of Water Research

Published on October 8, 2024
Pouyan Nejadhashemi has been named director of the Institute of Water Research effective Oct. 15, 2024.
PSM People recognized with awards from National Pest Diagnostics Network for outstanding service

Published on September 29, 2024
MSU Plant and Pest Diagnostics Team Rises to critical challenge. Jan Byrne, Laura Miles recognized by National Network for significant effort, creative thinking, and implementation of new protocol
MSU scientists awarded two new grants over $1M each to address PFAS impacts on agriculture

Published on September 27, 2024
The grants will support a multidisciplinary approach evaluating the impact of PFAS on a Michigan farm.
MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources announces search for PSM Department chair

Published on September 20, 2024
The Dept is seeking an individual with an outstanding record of achievement, appreciation for the range of disciplines, and dedication to the land grant mission
Is it chestnut season in MIchigan? Or trouble with tribbles*

Published on September 19, 2024
Post-doc researcher Giorgia Bastianelli continues long tradition of chestnut research at MSU
Nourish the Future brings k-12 science educators to PSM for 2nd workshop

Published on September 17, 2024
PSM’s Addie Thompson and Erin Bosch-Hannah recently hosted 20 teachers from across Michigan as part of the Nourish the Future (NTF) initiative: "Feeding & Fueling the World."
Christy Sprague was named “Educator of the Year” by the Mid America CropLife Association (MACA).

Published on September 15, 2024
Awarded for "demonstrated evidence of significant contributions to American agriculture"
CANR announces Dissertation Completion Fellowship deadlines

Published on September 11, 2024
See complete information and links to forms here
Potato team lead by David Douches awarded new patent

Published on August 29, 2024
How does the MSU Potato Breeding and Genetics Program bring big science to the local farmer?
Empowering futures: MSU CANR students awarded Dean’s Choice Award

Published on August 27, 2024
CANR students Natali Gonzalez and Lavonnes Bolds were recently selected as recipients of the MSUFCU CANR Dean’s Choice Award, a scholarship aiming to address the issue of access in higher education
MSU researchers develop low-cost sensors to help farmers irrigate more efficiently, manage diseases

Published on August 14, 2024
Scientists have developed a system called LOCOMOS to monitor irrigation efficiency.
2024 MSU wheat variety performance trial results available

Published on August 7, 2024
Growers can use data from these trials when selecting wheat varieties to plant on their farm.
MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics names new director

Published on August 1, 2024
Plant diagnostic services continue at MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics under the new direction of Jan Byrne, PhD, following the retirement of Ray Hammerschmidt, PhD.
The buzz on the new insect/arthropod diagnostician at MSU Plant and Pest Diagnostics

Published on July 26, 2024
Following the retirement of Howard “Bugman” Russell, Sarah Hughson has begun her role as the new insect/arthropod diagnostician.
Getting to the root of science outreach with sugar beets

Published on July 26, 2024
Linda Hanson, Jaime Willbur and graduate students Fayann Iobst and Kirsten Pollok recently participated in Youth Field Day, a hands-on agriculture experience for students in grades 3-12 held annually by Michigan Sugar.
Interim Dean Daum shares vision for CANR at Michigan State University

Published on July 17, 2024
Matthew Daum, Ph.D., the newly appointed interim dean of CANR at MSU, steps into the role with a wealth of experience and expertise. As he embarks on this new chapter, Dr. Daum shares his perspective on leadership and his vision for CANR's future.
Why is Isabella Rabac, a rising senior majoring in Environmental Studies and Sustainability, working an internship this summer in Linda Hanson’s lab?

Published on July 12, 2024
In the quest to understand the effects of Rhizoctonia on sugarbeets in Michigan, a curious twist to an old problem creates a unique opportunity for this summer scientist!
Multidisciplinary KBS team produces new conservation tool

Published on July 2, 2024
The first-ever Prairie Strip Partial Budget is now available through MSU Extension and MiSTRIPS
Announcing Master's Degree Thesis Defense Seminar for Maria Kenneth Lane S. Bears

Published on June 28, 2024
Understanding winter wheat and sugarbeet yield, growth, and quality through intensive management
Faculty Feature

Published on June 28, 2024
This week we are getting to know Dr. Gian Maria Niccolo “Nico” Benucci, who works as a Data Analyst and Bioinformatician with the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center (GLBRC).
2024 MSU Weeds Tour brings students, faculty and agriculture industry stakeholders together in the field

Published on June 28, 2024
A huge crowd including stakeholders from all sectors including producers, industry and faculty, gathered at MSU Plant Pathology Farm to learn from each other about the latest developments in weed and seed research in the corn and soybean plots.
ANNOUNCING DEFENSE SEMINAR: EMILY ROGGENKAMP

Published on June 24, 2024
“GENETIC INVESTIGATION OF THE MAIZE PATHOGEN PHYLLACHORA MAYDIS”
MSU faculty turn the farm into a classroom

Published on June 21, 2024
Science teachers visit MSU to learn STEM principles from PSM educators
Announcing Defense Seminar: William Behling

Published on June 20, 2024
Accessing Crop Wild Relatives of Potato with a Focus on Solanum verrucosum and the 1EBN Species in the Tertiary Genepool
CANR Alumni Board Spotlight – John Schramski

Published on June 19, 2024
CANR is releasing a series of spotlights on Alumni Board members. John Schramski (Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, '13 B.S., '20 M.S.) is currently an Executive Board member representing Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences.
How does agriculture fit into the human anitibiotic resistance cycle?

Published on June 14, 2024
New research explores this global, One Health problem
MSU team receives $750K to explore climate change mitigation potential of switchgrass

Published on June 13, 2024
The grant is through USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture and the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative.
New climate resiliency program aims to assist in ‘challenges our farm hasn’t faced before’

Published on June 12, 2024
Jeanie Igl, fourth-generation farmer of Hawkins Homestead based in Ingham County, said she hopes the new Agricultural Climate Resiliency Program will provide several years of climate research to combat the emerging issues her farm is experiencing.
Exploring the Influential Legacy of Dr. Zhu Zuxiang

Published on June 5, 2024
Widely considered the founder of the soil chemistry discipline in China, Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences alumnus Dr. Zhu Zuxiang (Chu, Tsu-Siang), Ph.D. (’46, ’48), exemplifies the reach of CANR’s global impact.
Can we enhance the climate mitigation potential of switchgrass as a Bioenergy Cropping System?

Published on June 5, 2024
PSM professors land NIFA funding to explore pathways to greater carbon storage in switchgrass fields
MSU potato breeder develops new genetically engineered potato

Published on June 4, 2024
The Kal91.3 potato can be stored in cool temperatures for long periods of time and produce healthier and higher-quality potato chips.
What is the Farm Bill 2024 and why should you know about it

Published on June 3, 2024
It’s a farm bill year! What does that mean for US? Farm Bill 2024: Act Now to Shape Five Years of Farm and Food Policy
MSU AgBioResearch, MSU Extension to host field days around the state this summer

Published on May 28, 2024
Growers and producers will have the chance to participate in field days across Michigan.
MSU hires new farm manager for Plant Pathology and Entomology Research Centers

Published on May 20, 2024
Jared Andrews will lead daily operations at both MSU AgBioResearch on-campus research centers.
Remembering Dr. Joseph Vargas

Published on May 13, 2024
The CANR Spartan community commemorates the impactful life and enduring legacy of Joseph Vargas
Can we grow morel mushrooms for fun and profit?

Published on May 13, 2024
SARE-funded project proves fruitful despite low yields
Funding assistance available for PSM graduate students

Published on May 1, 2024
Below you will find a complete listing of opportunities for Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 semesters
New Agricultural Climate Resiliency Program funds four projects

Published on April 22, 2024
Each project will be supported at roughly $1.25 million over three years.
PSM grad student Chenxi Li studies the effects of soil amendments on the uptake of heavy metals in carrots

Published on April 7, 2024
Chenxi and team are growing carrots in soil sampled at a Michigan carrot farm to evaluate uptake of metalloids at various growth stages, soil amendment application conditions, and soil moisture levels.
Introducing 1st year PhD student Siavash Heshmati, international graduate student, Dr Grace Fleming Seed Science Lab

Published on April 7, 2024
Sia is turning his lifelong curiosity about seeds into a PhD project
CANR faculty honored with MSU International Awards

Published on April 3, 2024
Four CANR faculty will be honored at the 2024 MSU International Awards on April 24 for their outstanding contributions toward international engagement and understanding
MSU and MDARD plant labs unite to help Michigan plant industries thrive

Published on April 3, 2024
MSU Plant and Pest Diagnostics and MDARD’s Plant Pathology Laboratory have collaborated for more than a decade to diagnose plant problems and provide aid to growers.
MSU greenhouse renovations improving plant research

Published on April 1, 2024
MSU-funded updates are ongoing, while State of Michigan-supported renovations begin in spring
A team of PSM graduate students learns more than science in publishing new paper

Published on March 30, 2024
In a new pair of papers, PSM graduate students Becky Harkness, Jill Check and Lexi Heger show how choices made during design and implementation of samplers can influence the results-- and how recognizing this influence is crucial for researchers.
New publication shows how soil protein is a key indicator of soil health and nitrogen management

Published on March 29, 2024
Katherine Naasko1,2 Tvisha Martin1,2 Meredith Mann1,2 Christine Sprunger1,2 Christian Mammana1 describe ACE Protein and how it provides the first solid measurement of organic nitrogen in soils
Support from Project GREEEN helps Enviroweather deliver needed information to Michigan growers

Published on March 27, 2024
For more than two decades, Enviroweather has provided real-time weather information to help make farming decisions — dealing with pests, plant development and natural resources management.
Seven CANR faculty members among honorees at 2024 MSU faculty investiture

Published on March 22, 2024
Michigan State University formally recognized seven faculty members in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) at the 2024 MSU Investiture for Endowed Faculty.
Project GREEEN backs research into new way of breeding potatoes

Published on March 20, 2024
Dave Douches, a professor in MSU’s Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, has used Project GREEEN funds to study how to breed potatoes at the diploid level.
Teaching Science with Isotopes

Published on March 17, 2024
Dr. Jim Moran is teaching a special topics course this semester, in which he and his student explore how Stable isotopes can trace physical, chemical, and biological reactions and source materials at a wide variety of spatial scales.
Controlled-environment agriculture research sees innovation through Project GREEEN

Published on March 13, 2024
MSU researchers have used Project GREEEN funding to optimize greenhouse production for more than 25 years.
Project GREEEN supports ‘rapid response time’ to fight emerging plant pathogens

Published on March 6, 2024
In collaboration with Michigan’s plant industries, MSU scientists use Project GREEEN funds to discover solutions that address arising plant diseases.
PSM grad students connect to Michigan science teachers with Turfgrass research

Published on March 4, 2024
PhD candidate Jackie "Jack" Guevara and master's student Jacob Kilby gave the keynote address to hundreds of science teachers at the Michigan Science Teachers Annual Conference, Saturday 2 May in Lansing MI.
FFA/PSM open house a big success

Published on March 3, 2024
Spring break 2024 brought dozens of potential undergrads to experience crop science up close with tours, demonstrations, and hands-on experiences.
Potato industry report explores financial impact of potatoes on michigan economy

Published on March 3, 2024
Michigan potatoes bring billions to the economy: Thanks in no small part to the ongoing commitment of PSM and research faculty, staff and students
EcoTek Students Continue Experimental Journey

Published on February 25, 2024
Students from a Detroit high school visited the Patterson lab again on Saturday—this time to collect soil from the rhizosphere right next to the plant root to capture the bacteria—in the productivity experiment they started in October 2023.
Project GREEEN-funded research packs a punch against problematic weeds

Published on February 21, 2024
MSU scientists team up with Michigan plant industry groups using Project GREEEN and commodity dollars to combat weeds.
Meet Jacob Kilby: graduate student

Published on February 18, 2024
Jake Kilby is completing his Master's Degree in CSS, pioneering a hybrid turf system for the 2026 FIFA World Cup stadiums.
Plant Science Student Recruitment Weekend 2024

Published on February 16, 2024
A good turnout for the future of plant science at MSU
Project GREEEN: 25 years of strengthening Michigan plant agriculture

Published on February 15, 2024
The program is a partnership among MSU, the Plant Coalition, and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
New program for PSM - undergraduate minor in environmental soil science

Published on February 10, 2024
Dr Barret Wessel forms new program available to all students
Daniel Ling joins MSU research equipment maintenance team in support of PSSB

Published on February 10, 2024
New MSU staff member Dan Ling can be found buzzing around the building making sure things work
Michigan Potato Industry Commission honors PSM's Joe Coombs

Published on February 8, 2024
Joe recognized for his long-term commitment to potato breeding, working with the MPIC, and to MSU.
MICHIGAN DRY BEANS: IT'S IN THE CAN

Published on February 5, 2024
MSU Bean Breeding and Genetics program hosts Bush Brothers and Company food processors for dry bean production intensive short-course
PSM researchers host high school science students from the Detroit Metro area

Published on February 4, 2024
PSM faculty and staff wrap up a second program together with EcoTek
New climate resiliency program to address long-term plant agriculture challenges in Michigan

Published on February 1, 2024
The Agricultural Climate Resiliency Program is a partnership among MSU, the Plant Coalition, and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
PSM's Marc Friedman and Alassane Sow explore food and sustainability issues in a new MSU Museum exhibit

Published on January 28, 2024
Exhibit on view through Jun 29, 2024 at the MSU Museum
PSM Students get weedy at annual conferences

Published on January 28, 2024
PSM weed science students placed well in poster and presentation contests at the annual meetings
Enrollment is up in Turfgrass program

Published on January 26, 2024
It’s a great time to be part of the turfgrass program! More than 30 students are currently enrolled in the undergraduate/certificate program.
MMG udergrad Alassane Sow enjoys working as a research assistant in PSM

Published on January 18, 2024
Microbiology major crosses the street for his part time job as a research assistant in the Bonito lab
New MSU research details how analyzing historical crop yields can reveal key soil health insights

Published on January 18, 2024
An MSU-led team used a novel analytical method known as yield stability zones to show the relationship between crop yield and soil health. The results can help farmers lower input costs and increase yield, while lessening environmental impact.
Michelle Hulin joins PSM faculty

Published on January 15, 2024
New plant pathologist brings fresh experience to long-term crop concern
Welcome our new Graduate Students

Published on January 15, 2024
A fresh crop of graduate students joins Plant Soil and Microbial Sciences dept this January 2024
MSU scientists featured in novel, new DOE-sponsored climate report

Published on January 10, 2024
Bruno Basso and Phil Robertson led research into how the U.S. can best manage cropland soil to capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Lisa Tiemann recounts her adventures in Africa and India during her 2023 sabbatical

Published on December 8, 2023
Weekly seminar re-cap and zoom video
MSU plant pathologist awarded $3.95M USDA grant to examine fruit rot in blueberries

Published on December 5, 2023
Timothy Miles, an assistant professor in MSU's Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, is teaming up with researchers across the U.S. to further study management of Anthracnose and Botrytis fruit rot in blueberries.
Many opportunities for collaboration and outreach at the MSUE Upper Peninsula Research and Extension Center

Published on December 3, 2023
MSUE UPREC Director James DeDecker summarizes 125 years of history and research in PSM/HRT series seminar
MSU-led research team receives $946K grant to study alfalfa autotoxicity

Published on November 28, 2023
The project is funded by USDA NIFA's Alfalfa Seed and Forage Systems program.
CSS Freshman Caden Wade wins top participant award at national FFA competition

Published on November 24, 2023
At the 96th Annual FFA Convention, Caden was named the National Top Participant Winner in the Farm and Agribusiness Management competition with his chapter ranking third overall.
New PSM Staff Member

Published on November 22, 2023
Matthew Chansler, research assistant, joins Dr Grace Fleming as a much-needed full-time lab manager as her program grows.
New Publications

Published on November 22, 2023
Long-term, large-scale analysis shows decline in soybean resistance genes over time
Blueberries get a $3.9 million + boost with a multi-disciplinary, multi-institution project based right here in PSM with Dr Tim Miles

Published on November 20, 2023
Dr Tim Miles and team take on biggest blueberry project ever
Weekly beet Newsletter for 13 November 2023

Published on November 13, 2023
PUBLISHED ON OCTOBER 9, 2023
PSMs Molly Irvin Takes First with Poster at the BIC Meeting

Published on November 10, 2023
Molly Irvin was awarded 1st place in the grad student poster competition at the Bean Improvement Cooperative Biennial Meeting in Greenville, SC reecently
Research team led by MSU scientist receives $6M USDA grant to study pest-management strategies for potato systems

Published on November 10, 2023
Zsofia Szendrei, a professor in MSU’s Department of Entomology, is leading a team of researchers from across the U.S. in finding solutions to controlling potato pests without using neonicotinoids.
PSM Soil team kicks up the dust at the recent ASA Region 3 Soils Contest

Published on November 3, 2023
Along with Coach Wessel, the team includes Bernie Frantz and Chris Baish as assistant coaches, and the Soil Judgers who competed were Isabella Rabac, Ben Bridge, Grace Beem, and Andrew Wade.
News from PSM participation in ASA, CSSA, & SSSA Meeting 2023 St Louis MO

Published on November 3, 2023
PSM students are the big winners at this year's ASA, CSSA, & SSSA Meeting in St Louis MO.
AgBioResearch releases Project GREEEN’s RFP FOR 2024!

Published on November 3, 2023
View details on the newly released RFP from MSU AGBioResearch.
PSM WEEKLY NEWS BEET 10-30-23

Published on October 30, 2023
Weekly beet for OCTOBER 30, 2023
Weekly beet Newsletter 10/16

Published on October 16, 2023
Weekly beet for OCTOBER 16, 2023
PSM graduate student Ojo Olorunsogo Paul takes sustainability to the next level

Published on October 9, 2023
Student invited to join the 2023 cohort of MSU Cloud Computing Fellows.
Weekly beet Newsletter

Published on October 9, 2023
PUBLISHED ON OCTOBER 9, 2023
Beal seed viability experiment yields a hybrid surprise

Published on October 6, 2023
A new paper authored by Dr Margaret (Grace) Fleming (Assistant Professor PSM) describing the results from the 16th Beal bottle was accepted by American Journal of Botany and is NOW available online.
Improving soil bulk density and carbon estimates in inland wetland histosols

Published on October 6, 2023
New Project: The Wessel Lab prepares to re-map Michigan wetland soils.

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