What's Happening?
A Creative Inquiry project focusing on soybeans has been awarded the Carr Family Endowed CI for 2026. The project, led by Professor Shahid Mukhtar, aims to provide students with hands-on research experience in soybean anatomy and physiology under stress
conditions like drought. The endowment, established by Chalmers and Lori Anne Carr of Titan Farms, supports projects related to crop production and rural economic development. Students involved in the project will gain technical skills in tissue sectioning, microscopy, and histological analysis to understand how environmental stressors affect plant tissues.
Why It's Important?
This project is significant as it addresses the challenges faced by one of the largest crops in the U.S., soybeans, particularly under drought conditions. By equipping students with advanced research skills, the project not only enhances educational opportunities but also contributes to the agricultural sector's understanding of how to mitigate the impacts of climate change on crop yields. The findings could lead to improved agricultural practices and policies, benefiting farmers and the broader agricultural industry.
