Plant Protection and Biotic and Abiotic Interactions

Vision Statement

To maximize the health and growth of plants through the study and understanding of plant-associated microbiomes (pathogens, endophytes and other plant-associated microbes), weeds, abiotic stress and cultural management.

Mission

• Conduct innovative and fundable research in areas of plant protection
• Foster undergraduate and graduate education within the department, and in support of related curricula outside the department
• Develop, deliver and sustain relevant extension education (outreach), especially pertaining to plant health, for state, national and international stakeholders

Photos:
Top row left: Ringspot on blueberry fruit.
Top row right: Epichloë fungal endophyte of grass.
Bottom row left: Fungal endophytes of switchgrass (l) and Fungal pathogens and their structures (r).
Bottom row right: A plant's root hair.