Dear colleagues,

As leaders with faculty in the plant sciences, you are aware of the long-standing strengths and institutional commitment to this critical area of research at MSU. Our expertise is spread across many colleges, departments, and initiatives on campus and beyond.  A key to our success is the ability to bring the diverse disciplines together to address key problems in plant science.   periodic broad-based review of “What’s next in plant science at MSU?” has been a useful tool in this effort.

It is imperative that MSU remain a global leader in plant sciences and that we position the institution for greater potential and future opportunities. To accomplish these goals, we must support university level coordination and continue cultivating synergies across the spectrum of disciplinary perspectives. Additionally, we must align our plant science research, education, and outreach missions in a more focused way and continue to promote the complexity and breadth of plant science programs at MSU. This will ensure that we remain a destination for faculty and student recruits-the next generation of plant science leaders.

The purpose of this message is to request nominations for individuals to serve on the next Plant Science Excellence committee– PSE IV. As you may be aware, three previous PSE reports, the first in 1998, have helped to direct MSU’s strategy and investments in plant science. The committee to be formed for PSE IV will be charged with representing the broader MSU plant sciences community and working toward developing a vision for the next ten years. I will ask that a report with recommendations be delivered by November 1. I invite you to submit the names of faculty you believe would add value to this effort.

Plant sciences will continue to be a key area of strength and source of strategic programs in the coming years. The PSE IV committee will play an important role in our setting our specific direction moving forward. I look forward to your response to this request by May 28. Please send your nominations to mailto:vprappts@msu.edu. 

Best wishes and thank you for considering this request.

Doug

Douglas A. Gage, Ph.D.
Interim Vice President for Research and Innovation