Seeds For The Future

Seeds, two pictures of fields and a microscope picture of a seed

Seeds for Agriculture and Restoration Research

 

The Seeds For The Future program is an immersive research experience funded by the USDA – NIFA Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates (REEU) Fellowship Program. Our intellectual focus will be on seeds and their microbes (pathogens and mutualists). We will investigate the roles of these seed symbionts on seed quality, seedling establishment, nutrient acquisition, drought resistance, and defense against pests and disease. We will explore this topic in one of the premier seed production regions in the world—the Inland Northwest of Washington, Idaho, and Oregon. Students will conduct research, exploring seed-microbe interactions with applications to agriculture and restoration ecology.  Additionally, student will interact with our local seed industry partners, providing the students with a larger context for their seed-related research. 

Program Information:

Summer 2024: The program is not accepting applications for the 2024 season due to transitions in the grant and it's collaborators. The program will resume in summer 2025.

Summer 2025: Program information and application will be available in winter 2024/2025. Please visit again.

Photo credits: Dr. Julie Beckstead

Potted seeds

Coming Soon!

We've been busy creating some new games and projects that we're excited to share with you this summer! Visit us again soon for updates.

While you're waiting, check out our current resources for teachers.