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Title: Summer education in nano- and biological approaches to protect plants against drought stress
An 8-week summer research experience for undergraduates was developed at Utah State University to train participants in nanotechnology and microbiome engineering approaches that the participants applied to improve plant resilience to stress and enhance food production. Nine participants from two-year colleges serving predominantly Native American and Hispanic populations were recruited with the aim of providing these students the confidence, skills, and passion for life-long learning to complete a four-year STEM degree and beyond. An interdisciplinary approach introduced students to nanotechnology, plant-microbiome functioning, and soilless growth platforms, demonstrating needs for diversity in skills and teamwork in solving problems. Six weeks of guided research modules were followed by student-designed projects conducted as small groups. Students synthesized and characterized nanoparticles, assessed mechanical properties of plants, isolated endophytic bacteria from wheat seed, and assessed the plant-protective properties imparted by the endophyte contrasted with a known root-colonizing beneficial microbe. Distinct responses of the two microbes to metal oxide nanoparticles having micronutrient and pesticide applications in agriculture demonstrated that nano-formulations may rapidly shift microbial populations based on susceptibility to nanoparticles / released ions. Participants gained a broad overview of nanotechnology and microbiome engineering as sustainable approaches for advancing plant productivity and agriculture under abiotic stress.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
1335550
PAR ID:
10081735
Author(s) / Creator(s):
Date Published:
Journal Name:
Sustainable Nanotechnology Organization
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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