The Interdisciplinary Plant Group (IPG) at Mizzou will host its 41st annual symposium on the topic of “Root Biology VI” May 20-23.
“The 2025 IPG Symposium is the sixth time we are hosting the meeting on the theme of Root Biology,” said David Braun, professor of Plant Science and Technology, Biological Sciences, and director of the IPG. “Roots have been a long-time research focus of many IPG scientists, and this meeting will showcase exciting, current research conducted by IPG members and the international root research community. The science presented will span from fundamental discoveries on root functions to translating root research into solutions for agriculture.”
The symposium will cover a broad range of topics, including root development and growth, root function in water and nutrient uptake, responses to abiotic and biotic stress and root-microbe interactions. Research presented will span spatial and temporal scales and will encompass studies based on model, crop and native species. The symposium will enable close interactions among participants to foster the generation of new ideas and collaborations that will ultimately contribute to more sustainable crop production and enhance ecosystem services.
Nearly two dozen speakers are confirmed to present over the course of three days, including experts from MU and around the globe.
“The IPG was founded in 1981,” said Braun. “Since then, we’ve hosted 40 annual symposia, where we have brought some of the world’s leading plant biologists to MU to share their science and interact with our faculty, students, postdocs and staff. Over the years, I estimate we’ve brought more than one thousand of the top national and international plant scientists to MU to share and exchange ideas with IPG researchers.”
Participants must register ahead of time; the registration deadline is May 9. To register or for more information about speakers, accommodations or sponsors, visit the IPG Symposium website. A reduced fee is available for students and postdocs.
The IPG is a community of Mizzou faculty, students, postdoctoral fellows and professionals who are pursuing novel, creative and transformative ideas in the field of plant biology. Established in 1981, the IPG seeks to encourage interdisciplinary cooperation between scientists engaged in research in plant molecular biology, physiology, biochemistry, genetics, biotechnology, evolution, ecology, bioinformatics and computer science. The group’s aim in integrating these disciplines is to stimulate joint research projects that will enhance our understanding of how plants grow and develop in changing environments.