đ» The Week in Botany May 29, 2023
Itâs been a quiet week on Twitter this week, possibly due to a lot of plant attention being based at the Chelsea Flower Show. A paper that caught my eye was âCarnivory on demandâ in NewPhyt about a plant that can choose whether or not itâs carnivorous. Not surprisingly, lots of places have already covered it but I may blog it anyway as itâs such an interesting paper.
They must be busy at New Phytologist, as they have an online seminar coming up, âFrontiers in plantâmicrobe interactionsâ. Itâll be on June 13 and 15. Itâs 9am in the UK, which is a convenient time to watch if youâre in China, but maybe not if youâre in Oxford where morning traffic is proving impressively difficult.
Iâll be back with another selection of whatâs getting shared on Twitter at the same time next week. Until then, take care.
Alun (webmaster@botany.one)
On Botany One
The Mathematics of How Plants Combat Pollen Scarcity with Self-Pollination
Through innovative eco-evolutionary models, Kuangyi Xu offers fresh insights into how plants could self-rescue in times of pollen scarcity by balancing the benefits and costs of self-fertilization.
Anatomical and hydraulic adaptations in Amazonian savannas allow flora to survive drought
Scientists studied how plants in the Amazonian savannas survive in dry conditions. They found that different plants have unique ways of persisting in this challenging environment, like having thick leaves or special structures in their branches, which help them grow in this unique ecosystem.
An invasive plant thrives on the edge of fire
Botanists discover unexpected ways in which controlled fires can influence plant diversity, including the puzzling persistence of certain invasive species.
Perlinâs potentially perfect plants-and-people publication
Nigel Chaffey reviews A Forest Journey: The role of trees in the fate of civilization, by John Perlin.
A new life for centuries-old herbaria
Old collections of dried plants trapped in herbaria for centuries are acquiring unprecedented powers in understanding the history of plant evolution and improving biodiversity conservation, thanks to new technological tools.
News & Views
Plant science's biggest problems
Plant scientists are increasingly concerned about how plants will fare as climates change across the planet â and what role plants themselves can take in addressing one of the world's most pressing problems.
How Hot Is A Fully-Laden Bumblebee And Why Should We Care?
Bumblebees heat up as the load of pollen they carry increases, and this could cause serious trouble for these important pollinators as the climate continues to warm.
Sheâs Out to Save Rare Wildflowers, but First She Has to Find Them
A wet winter has provided a narrow window for botanists to search for wildflowers that have been lying dormant for years in California.
A plant smaller than a penny is rediscovered on a Lompoc military base. Hereâs why we should care
Thousands of Santa Ynez groundstars â with their clusters of furry, white, spoon-shaped leaves â were found at the Vandenberg Space Force Base near Lompoc in Santa Barbara County, the only place on Earth the species is known to exist.
What Makes a Garden a Work of Art? Piet Oudolf Explains.
The noted designer of the High Line has wisdom to share with other gardeners: âI put plants on a stage and let them perform.â
A unique forest full of medicinal plants comes up in Pune â thanks to Ayurveda researchers
Using an acclaimed Japanese method of plantation, the benefits of this mini-forest at the institute's 19.5-acre campus in Kothrud are two-fold, say officials: tackle the scarcity of rare and endangered plants -- and purify the air, and build soil and biodiversity, in a densely populated region.
York groundsel blooms again in Britainâs first-ever de-extinction event
Yellow flower that only grows in York went extinct in 1991 brought back to life by Natural England experts.
The trees Melburnians could never leaf without
In the Royal Botanic Gardens, so many visitors wrapped their arms around the trunk of a 170-year-old cyprus that caretakers were forced to erect a security barrier to protect the roots.
Where the âWood-Wide Webâ Narrative Went Wrong
A compelling story about how forest fungal networks communicate has garnered much public interest. Is any of it true?
Rare plant turns carnivorous when it is low on a key nutrient
The West African liana Triphyophyllum peltatum can grow special leaves that trap insects, but we now know it only does this when the soil is lacking in phosphorus.
âUplifting and beautifulâ: accessible garden wins top prize at Chelsea flower show
Horatioâs Garden is designed to be a restorative sanctuary for people with spinal injuries.
Irish gardener scoops gold at Chelsea Flower show
An Irish gardener has won gold for the second time at this year's Chelsea Flower Show in London.
At Chelsea Flower Show, I find a rare thing: a truly unforgettable garden
Sarah Priceâs planting, inspired by the artist Cedric Morris, is for both dreaming and living in.
Scientific Papers
Shifting microbial communities can enhance tree tolerance to changing climates
Allsup et al. show that tree seedlings inoculated with microbial communities sourced from drier, warmer, or colder sites displayed higher survival when faced with drought, heat, or cold stress, respectively. Microbially mediated drought tolerance was associated with increased diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, whereas cold tolerance was associated with lower fungal richness, likely reflecting a reduced burden of nonadapted fungal taxa.
Carnivory on demand: phosphorus deficiency induces glandular leaves in the African liana Triphyophyllum peltatum
Triphyophyllum peltatum, a rare tropical African liana, is unique in its facultative carnivory. The trigger for carnivory is yet unknown, mainly because the plant is difficult to propagate and cultivate. This study aimed at identifying the conditions that result in the formation of carnivorous leaves.
Point of View: Beware âpersuasive communication devicesâ when writing and reading scientific articles
Corneille et al. discuss a list of persuasive communication devices and we encourage authors, as well as reviewers and editors, to think carefully about their use.
Developing climate-resilient crops: improving plant tolerance to stress combination
Rivero et al. review recent studies of stress combinations in different plants and propose new approaches and avenues for the development of stress combination- and climate change-resilient crops.
cis-Regulatory Elements in Plant Development, Adaptation, and Evolution
cis-Regulatory elements encode the genomic blueprints that ensure the proper spatiotemporal patterning of gene expression necessary for appropriate development and responses to the environment. Although a comprehensive understanding of cis-regulatory mechanisms in plants has lagged behind that in animals, we showcase several breakthrough findings that have profoundly influenced plant biology and shaped the overall understanding of transcriptional regulation in eukaryotes.
Pathogen perception and deception in plant immunity by kinase fusion proteins
Two studies describe kinase fusion proteins (KFPs) that regulate the perception and deception of wheat pathogens. These highlight the emergence of KFPs as plant immune regulators and emphasize the importance of crop wild relatives as a reservoir for resistance breeding and global food security.
ReadCube: https://rdcu.be/ddbqGThe wheat stem rust resistance gene Sr43 encodes an unusual protein kinase
To safeguard bread wheat against pests and diseases, breeders have introduced over 200 resistance genes into its genome, thus nearly doubling the number of designated resistance genes in the wheat gene pool. Isolating these genes facilitates their fast-tracking in breeding programs and incorporation into polygene stacks for more durable resistance. Yu et al. cloned the stem rust resistance gene Sr43, which was crossed into bread wheat from the wild grass Thinopyrum elongatum. Sr43 encodes an active protein kinase fused to two domains of unknown function.
ReadCube: https://rdcu.be/ddbrgAn unusual tandem kinase fusion protein confers leaf rust resistance in wheat
The introgression of chromosome segments from wild relatives is an established strategy to enrich crop germplasm with disease-resistance genes. Here we use mutagenesis and transcriptome sequencing to clone the leaf rust resistance gene Lr9, which was introduced into bread wheat from the wild grass species Aegilops umbellulata.
ReadCube: https://rdcu.be/ddbrs
Phyllosphere microbiome induces host metabolic defence against rice false-smut disease
Liu et al. identify a metabolic defence underlying the mutualistic interaction between the panicle and the resident microbiota in rice to defend against a globally prevalent phytopathogen, Ustilaginoidea virens, which causes false-smut disease.
ReadCube: https://rdcu.be/ddbr6
The integration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and calcium signalling in abiotic stress responses
This review discusses the proteins that may serve as nodes or connecting bridges between the different pathways during abiotic stress responses, highlighting the crosstalk between ROS and Ca2+ pathways in cell signalling. Ravi et al. consider putative molecular switches that connect these signalling pathways and the molecular machinery that achieves the synergistic operation of ROS and Ca2+ signals.
PrimeRoot for targeted large DNA insertion in plants
Genome editing technologies such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) have revolutionized plant breeding through targeted genome and transcriptome modifications. However, accurate insertion of large DNA cargoes remains challenging. Recently, Sun and colleagues introduced PrimeRoot, a groundbreaking technology that enables precise and targeted integration of large DNA cargoes into plant genomes with remarkable efficiency and accuracy.
Jasmonate signaling controls negative and positive effectors of salt stress tolerance in rice
Ndecky et al. describe the dynamics of JA metabolism and signaling in root and leaf tissue of rice, a plant species that is highly exposed and sensitive to salt. Roots activate the JA pathway in an early pulse, while the second leaf displays a biphasic JA response with peaks at 1 h and 3 d post-exposure. Based on higher salt tolerance of a rice JA-deficient mutant (aoc), they examined, through kinetic transcriptome and physiological analysis, the salt-triggered processes that are under JA control.
Maize dispersal patterns associated with different types of endosperm and migration of indigenous groups in lowland South America
The lowlands of South America appear to be remarkably important in the evolutionary history of maize, due to new evidence that suggests that maize dispersed from Mexico and arrived in this region in a state of partial domestication. This study aimed to identify dispersal patterns of maize genetic diversity in this part of the continent.
Careers
Postdoc in Biophysics of Photosynthesis, Wageningen
Are you a postdoc candidate with a fundamental interest in photosynthetic light acclimation in plants? Do you have a background in protein biochemistry, fluorescence microscopy and/or biophysics? Would you like to work together in a multi-disciplinary team of researchers? We have a vacancy for a postdoc position on investigating light acclimation of plants with the use of advanced optical microscopy and mass spectrometry.
Research group leader âPlant Breeding Researchâ, WĂ€denswil - Zurich
We are seeking a new research group leader to continue developing Breeding Research at Agroscope. Take the lead of the breeding research group with corresponding staff and budget responsibilities. Development of state-of-the-art breeding methods for practical application. Further establishment of expertise in genomics, new breeding technologies, biostatistics and molecular marker application.
PhD position âEvolution of plant adaptation to selenium hyperaccumulationâ, Wageningen
Do you want to participate in a world-renowned team investigating hyperaccumulator plants as a PhD researcher at Wageningen University and Research? Are you interested in unravelling the mechanisms responsible for selenium hyperaccumulation? Are you keen to discover why selenium hyperaccumulators thrive on selenium? We are looking for a PhD student to get to the bottom of this and discover how and why our model species Neptunia amplexicaulis hyperaccumulates selenium.
PhD position: Understanding pan-fungicide resistance in the airborne human fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus, Wageningen
Are you interested in genetics and understanding how resistance to environmental chemicals can affect reproductive barriers? Are you excited about using CRISPR-Cas9 and state-of-the-art molecular biology in fungi? Do you want to pursue a PhD? Then we have an excellent opportunity for you in Wageningen, The Netherlands!
Postdoctoral scholarship (2 years) to investigate the role of the circadian clock in plant â especially tree â growth and adaptation under abiotic stress, UmeĂ„
We are offering a postdoctoral scholarship in Dr. Maria E. Erikssonâs research group. We are looking for a motivated candidate who has interest in the research areas light reception, circadian regulation and abscisic acid (ABA) regulated stress responses. The scholarship refers to full-time studies for two years with starting date 1 September 2023 or according to agreement.
Postdoctoral scholarship (2 years) to study the role of microProteins in plant development, UmeÄ
The Department of Plant Physiology, UmeĂ„ University, is offering a postdoctoral scholarship in Stephan Wenkelâs research group on a project aimed at studying the role microProteins in plant development. The scholarship refers to full-time studies for two years, starting September 1st 2023 or according to agreement.
Postdoctoral scholarship on Evaluation and Establishment of New Methodology for Visualizing the Rhizosphere, UmeÄ
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to develop a method to visualize microbial growth around plant roots in soil in order to study factors that influence the development of the rhizosphere. A successful candidate is experienced in confocal microscopy, mycology or plant physiology. Experience in microscopy method development is desirable. The 2-year scholarship is available in the group of Sandra JĂ€mtgĂ„rd at the Department of Forest Ecology and Sustainable Management at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), UmeĂ„ and is co-supervised by group leader Peter MarhavĂœ at the Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology, SLU, UPSC.
Assistant Professor in Plant Biotechnology (Virology), Sutton Bonington, Nottingham
The post will be based within the Division of Plant and Crop Sciences (PCS) within the School of Biosciences. The successful candidate will be expected to develop externally funded research leading to high quality peer reviewed outputs, and to deliver modular teaching, in areas relevant to plant pathology/plant biotechnology.
Postdoctoral Fellow (Snow Gum Dieback), Canberra
A position is available for a Postdoctoral Fellow to quantify the above and belowground carbon and water dynamics in subalpine snow gum woodlands in the context of rapid dieback as related to biotic, abiotic, global changes, and landscape factors. Using a combination of field, laboratory, and computational techniques, the Postdoctoral Fellow will develop carbon and water budgets for subalpine catenas on a gradient of dieback using an existing network of environmental sensors, piezometers, flux towers, and climate manipulation experiments.
Natural Areas Steward, Richmond VA
The University of Richmond is seeking a steward to oversee the design, care and management of the Eco-Corridor and nearby natural areas, while supporting critical education, engagement, well-being, and conservation goals on campus. This position will report to the Director of Sustainability and will work closely with the Associate Director of Landscape Services & Horticulture and the Eco-Corridor Working Group.
Tenure Track Faculty - Biology, Chicago
Malcolm X College is currently seeking a Full-Time Faculty member to teach General Biology / Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology. If you have passion for teaching and learning and are committed to the mission of the community college, consider joining our team. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated success in the classroom by developing and using effective teaching strategies that meet studentsâ diverse needs and engage the student in critical thinking and problem-solving.âŻ
Clinical Assistant Professor, Vegetable Pathology, West Lafayette, IN
The incumbent is responsible for vegetable pathology Extension and applied research across Indiana. Extension programming includes direct interaction with growers through farm visits, walk-ins at the research station, answering phone calls/emails and presentations to grower groups, including contributions to the Indiana Horticulture Conference and Expo and the Indiana Small Farm Conference. Diagnostic activities conducted at the laboratory at the Southwest Purdue Ag Center are coordinated with the Plant and Pest Diagnostic Lab located on the Purdue main campus in West Lafayette. Publications include Purdue Extension bulletins and contributing to regional publications such as the annual Midwest Vegetable Production Guide. Applied research to inform the candidateâs Extension work includes field and greenhouse trials for cultivar evaluation, fungicide efficacy, basic etiology of pathogens and their epidemiology.
Greenhouse Coordinator, Orlando
Working closely with Rollins College faculty and staff, the Greenhouse Coordinator will ensure a well-maintained facility to provide high quality plants and growth/research facilities to support a full range of research and teaching activities. The Greenhouse Coordinator manages the use of the greenhouse for class projects, faculty research, and student research. Additional responsibilities include maintaining a permanent diverse plant collection, conducting tours for Rollins classes and organizations, and assisting with college field trips. Further responsibilities include liaising with outside organizations and facilitating visitor tours.
Regular Faculty - Controlled Environmental Agriculture, Moscow, ID
The University of Idaho, College of Agricultural & Life Sciences, Plant Sciences department, is seeking a tenure-track Research Faculty, Assistant Professor, to develop an extramurally funded, nationally and internationally recognized research program to address sustainable production in controlled environment systems. This candidate is expected to work independently and collaboratively with other faculty members in research and to engage industry as appropriate as partners and in outreach. Specific areas of research may include plant nutrition and disease, irrigation systems, hydroponics, vertical farming, and organic production within controlled environments.
Research Assistant (Biological Sciences) 1, Singapore
We are looking for a Research Assistant for a research project to study plant-microbial-insect interactions. We seek a highly motivated applicant with some background and/or interest in working with environmental and plant related microbiomes. Applicant should also possess basic laboratory skills. Prior demonstrated experience in molecular/microbiology is highly desirable. The position is within a multi-disciplinary research team, which broadly pursues microbial diversity and physiological investigations in plant holobionts. The team consists of Post-doctoral fellows, PhDs and other Research Assistants. The full-time research assistant will be expected to actively participate in ongoing research projects and fulfil any other ad-hoc research.
Research Assistant (Biological Sciences) 1, Singapore
We are looking for a Research Assistant for a research project to study plant-microbial-insect interactions. We seek a highly motivated applicant with some background and/or interest in working with environmental and plant related microbiomes. Applicant should also possess basic laboratory skills. Prior demonstrated experience in molecular/microbiology is highly desirable. The position is within a multi-disciplinary research team, which broadly pursues microbial diversity and physiological investigations in plant holobionts. The team consists of Post-doctoral fellows, PhDs and other Research Assistants. The full-time research assistant will be expected to actively participate in ongoing research projects and fulfil any other ad-hoc research.
Research Assistant (Biological Sciences), Singapore
A Research Assistant position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Eunyoung Chae at the National University of Singapore, Department of Biological Sciences. The Chae lab studies natural variation in the plant immune system using genetic, genomic and biochemical approaches. The successful candidate will have an opportunity to work in a stimulating academic environment and to gain practical experiences in biological sciences.
Research Associate (Soil Scientist/Molecular Ecologist), Perth
You will be providing research services to project leaders and contributing to outputs in accordance with contracted requirements. Working under the supervision of Dr Sasha Jenkins and Emerita Professor Lynette Abbott, you will contribute to the delivery of the project âSoil biological mechanisms underpinning the effects of biological amendments on soil health, productivity and resilienceâ. This project is a multidisciplinary project being led by The University of Western Australia, and funded by the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (previously âDepartment of Agriculture, Water and the Environmentâ).
Research Fellow (Plant Nanotechnology), Singapore
Postdoctoral positions (research fellows) are available immediately in the Lew Lab led by Assistant Professor Tedrick Thomas Salim LEW at the Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering at the National University of Singapore (NUS). The National University of Singapore is consistently ranked as the top university in Asia and among the highest ranked institutions globally.
Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 1, Dublin
This post-doctoral research position will be based at University College Dublin, in Dublin, Ireland, and the appointed person will have to focus on the molecular characterization of the microbes associated with different crops and soil conditions especially in relation to plant health and also microbial isolates. The position focus on data analysis, especially of amplicon sequencing data and metabarcoding but not only. This researcher will play a major role in the consortium, connecting the various datasets collected by the research groups.