This journal club is open to both graduate students and advanced undergraduate students who have an interest in reviewing the current scientific literature in the field of plant biotechnology.

Introduces students to the process of developing a professional project in the area of sustainable food and farming. Requires synthesis and integration of knowledge and experience, and the application of theory and principles in a situation that approximates professional practice. Results in a research paper and a poster that provides a culminating experience for seniors or an introduction to research for new graduate students.

Physical, chemical, and biological factors affecting the fate and transport of inorganic contaminants (including heavy metals) in soil, water and sediment. Sources, chemistry, pedogenic and geochemical behavior of these contaminants and methods used for their analysis. Risk assessment, and remediation technologies, options, and goals. Prerequisites: CHEM 111 & 112, knowledge of college algebra, basic soil science, and transition metal chemistry, or permission of instructor.

The role of mineral elements in the growth of plants; plant response to fertilizers and other soil amendments; soil reaction, mineral deficiencies and toxicities; environmental impact of soil fertility management practices. Prerequisites: PLNTSOIL 102 and 105 (or equivalents), CHEM 110 or 111.

The influence of naturally occurring plant hormones on regulating physiology, growth, and development in plants. Also, the uses and potential uses of synthetic plant growth regulators, cultural techniques, and horticultural practices to improve the production of food, fiber and ornamental plants. Prerequisites: introductory plant science course, PLNTSOIL 397P recommended.

The basic biochemical and physiological processes occurring in fruits, vegetables, and flowers after harvest; postharvest treatments to modify these processes.

Methods of diagnosing plant diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes, and abiotic agents considered using specimens collected by students. Prerequisite: PLNTSOIL 505

The ecology of plant, microbe, and human interactions in plant diseases, from wilderness to industrial farms. Epidemics, traditional farming, environmental impacts and sustainability issues. Ways in which agriculture, particularly plant production and plant disease management, change ecosystems. Independent project. Prerequisites: BIOLOGY 100 or equivalent recommended. (Formerly MICROBIO 515)

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