Research in the Department of Plant Biology investigates the mechanisms behind plant growth, development, and adaptation. Faculty examine how genes, proteins, cells, and tissues work together to shape plant structure and function, and how plants sense and respond to environmental and biological challenges. Our research covers topics such as plant genetics and genomics, cell and structural biology, physiology and biophysics, development and morphogenesis, metabolism and signaling, evolution and diversity, as well as plant–environment and plant–microbe interactions. Together, these efforts provide new insights into plant systems and advance progress in agriculture, sustainability, and biotechnology.
Research
Department Research Facilities
Botanical Conservatory
A living collection of diverse and rare plants that supports research, teaching, and hands-on learning.
Controlled Environment Facility
Programmable growth chambers that allow precise control of light, temperature, and humidity for plant research.
Teaching Greenhouses
A curated greenhouse used for hands-on instruction, giving students direct experience with plant diversity and growth.
