The research envolves a study of cell culture growth and somatic embryogenesis using alfalfa (Medicagosativa). Embryogenesis requires the temporal separation of the induction and differentiation processes; hence, a multiple-stage continuous or semicontinuous bioreactor system may be well suited for moderate or large scale operation. A three stage continuous process for production of somatic embryos is investigated. This is a research planning grant under the Research Opportunities for Women program.