This award renews support for a multidisciplinary training research training program focused on the biology of plant roots, extending from the physiology of roots to the ecology of the rhizosphere that surrounds them in the soil. The program represents a joint effort of 15 faculty drawn from 8 departments. Groups of trainees at the undergraduate and graduate level will work with faculty teams as they design and implement research and training initiatives. Trainees will participate in formal courses, retreats, workshops, and a seminar series. At the same time as they acquire the skills and understanding required to pursue original research, trainees are expected to develop professional skills in teamwork, resource allocation and management, teaching, mentoring, and outreach as a direct result of the training.
