MSU Plant Science Community showcases 'The World of Plants' at STEAM Expo Days
Plant scientists across MSU will present an interdisciplinary showcase, 'The World of Plants,' at the SciFest STEAM Expo Days.
The Michigan State University (MSU) Plant Science Community is set to flourish at the STEAM Expo Days on April 5-6, a part of the annual MSU Science Festival (SciFest).
Plant scientists from numerous labs and research groups across MSU will present an engaging showcase, titled "The World of Plants," featuring 17 unique booths dedicated to different aspects of plant science.
This year’s STEAM Expo Days, located at the STEM Teaching and Learning Facility, will provide visitors of all ages with an opportunity to explore the fascinating world of plants through hands-on activities, experiments, and educational displays. Participants will also receive a canvas tote bag to decorate with botanical stamps as they go from booth to booth.
Discover "The World of Plants" in room 2202, which includes:
"A Hands-on Look at How Climate Change Affects Plants" – The Sharkey and Walker labs demonstrate the impact of environmental changes on plant life.
"Beal: Rewilding and Reconnecting" – Join the MSU Beal Botanical Garden to explore native plant species and urban biodiversity.
"Botanical Battlegrounds: Adapt, Survive, and Thrive!" – The Howe lab highlights the evolutionary strategies plants use to defend themselves.
"Build Your Own Forest!" – Participants can create their own miniature forest model to explore how different weather conditions affect temperature with the ERSAM lab.
"The Cellular Life of Plants: Seeing the Green World Through a New Lens" – The Brandizzi lab showcases microscopic wonders of plant cells and their functions.
"Exploring Adaptations of the Plant Pathogen Pseudomonas Syringae" – Learn how this bacterial superpower has shaped understanding of plant immunity with the Hulin lab.
"Exploring Growth and Self-Recycling in Corn!" – The Rhee lab explores plant development and nutrient recycling in maize.
"Exploring Plant Cells" – The Plant Cell Atlas, in collaboration with the Brandizzi and Rhee labs, offers an interactive journey into the microscopic world of plant cells.
"Get Your Hands Dirty: The Science of Soil Judging" – Hosted by the Wessel lab, this interactive display allows visitors to analyze soil properties and learn about its significance in plant growth.
"Leaf Lessons: An Exploration of Leaf Shapes and Sizes" – The MSU Herbarium invites attendees to discover the diversity of leaf structures and learn how leaves help scientists identify plants.
"Life Without Water" – The Rhee and VanBuren labs, part of the Water and Life Interface Institute, examine how life can survive extreme dehydration.
“The Magical World of Microbes” – Discover the hidden worlds of microscopic creatures like bioluminescent bacteria, presented by microbiologists from the Waters lab.
"Pigment Picassos" – The MSU Molecular Plant Sciences Program showcases the science behind the pigments that give plant life such vibrant colors and their role in plant health and survival.
"Plant Genome Investigators" – Learn about the fundamentals of plant genetics and how scientists decode the secrets hidden in plant genomes with the Shiu lab.
"Pollination and Seed Dispersal" – The MSU Plant Resilience Institute engages attendees with the crucial roles pollinators and seed dispersers play in plant reproduction.
"Soil: A Medium for Life and Art" – The Hayden and Sprunger labs blend science and creativity by showcasing soil's role in both plant growth and artistic expression.
"Why Do Bananas Smell So Good? How Plants Make Themselves A-Peel-Ing!" – Presented by the Rhee lab as part of the Plant Metabolic Network, this exhibit delves into the chemistry behind the pleasant aroma of bananas and other fruits.
“The World of Plants" offers an engaging opportunity for attendees to connect with experts, ask questions, and deepen their understanding and appreciation of plant science. Join the MSU Plant Science Community at the STEAM Expo Days in room 2202 to sow the seeds of curiosity, wonder, and discovery for the natural world.
The MSU SciFest, a month-long celebration of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, invites learners of all ages and backgrounds to explore and engage with cutting-edge research and innovation. All events are free, open to the public, and fun for the whole family.
For more details about the STEAM Expo Days and other MSU SciFest events, visit the official SciFest website.
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