In September 2011, representatives from the full spectrum of plant science research – from basic to applied and industry to academia – gathered to develop a consensus plan to invigorate and guide plant science research over the next decade. The meeting marked the first time this diverse community assembled to unify their vision for the future. Summit participants were charged with articulating research priorities in plant science that positively impact grand challenges in areas such as health, energy, food, and environmental sustainability. A document, “The Green Frontier: A Unified Vision for Plant Research,” reflecting the consensus of the discussions and opinions exchanged during the 2011 Summit was assembled and distributed. Additional information can be found on the INFORMATION page.
A second meeting, consisting of a smaller cohort of plant scientists whose charge was to build upon the foundational work of the first Summit and develop a succinct compilation of recommended plant science research priorities, was convened in January 2013. We envision the recommendations developed through these meetings as a tool to excite, engage, educate, and, perhaps most importantly, impact future budgetary discussions and decisions at the state and federal levels.
The final product of the Plant Science Research Summit will be a report that accompanies the 2011 meeting summary and suggests a decadal plan for investments in plant science research, describing the contributions of plant science to addressing important scientific priorities and vital societal challenges. The report is expected to be released in late spring of 2013.
The Plant Science Research Summit has received direct or in kind support from the following sponsors: