The NYU/NYBG Plant Resources Program will train a new type of doctoral-level plant biologist: those with the expertise to find, characterize, and discover the economic importance of plants and to conserve them. Students will be trained in three areas of plant biology (Molecular, Systematics, and Economic Botany) and in fields which impact studies of biodiversity (Anthropology, Environmental Science, International Law, etc.) This interdisciplinary program combines the resources of two major research/educational institutions whose complementary expertise is uniquely suited to these goals. Training begins with a rigorous Core Course covering basic elements of plant science, from structure and regulation of plant genes, to practical skills and ethics required to negotiate agreements for plant collections/conservation. Students will attend an annual seminar course to monitor recent developments in plant biology and policy/environment issues, and an annual workshop which will include parties from industry, government and academia. Students will receive practical training by performing three 0-week lab "rotations", in an active laboratory in each area. Students will also complete six advanced courses and undertake thesis research in their area of interest. This will be the first program to provide formal training not only in modern approaches to studying economically and medicinally important plants, but also in disciplines important for implementing the conservation of these rapidly disappearing resources.
