Center for Plant Cell Biology

Mission

The Frontier of Research in Plant Cell Biology and Genomics, Systems-Based Approach

This is an exciting time for plant biology. Plants are the basis of all life on Earth, whether as components of natural ecosystems or as domesticated crops used for food, feed and materials. After centuries of study, we are beginning to understand the complex signals and biochemical networks that allow plants to rapidly and exquisitely adapt to diverse environments as vital components of the earth's biosphere. The Center for Plant Cell Biology (CEPCEB) focuses on a diverse group of plants and fungi that provide the foundation for all life on earth. Capitalizing on the scientific momentum created by the genome sequencing of two important plants - Arabidopsis and rice - CEPCEB seeks to develop a comprehensive understanding of how plants function as whole organisms. The goal of this scientific challenge, involving an interdisciplinary effort by engineers, plant biologists, plant pathologists, chemists, physicists and computer scientists, is to apply the knowledge of how plants respond to their dynamic environment toward manipulation of crop plants safely and efficiently for better and more sustainable production.

We are inspired to transfer our excitement of plant cell biology to a new generation of scientists who will extend research at our university around the world.

Events