Phytotechnologies for Sustainable Development

Kansas State University, Manhattan KS

Investigators

Abstract

? DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The International Phytotechnologies Society (IPS) was founded in 2007 as a worldwide professional society for those engaged in phytotechnologies, the science, and application of the use of plants to remediate/manage contaminated soils and alleviate other environmental problems. The IPS offers through its annual meeting a program for graduate students and post- doctoral associates called the Phyto-Scholars program. The program is a cornerstone of IPS educational and professional development. The Phyto-Scholars program is well suited to the mission of NIEHS and the Superfund Research Program (SRP) in that this professional development opportunity helps train the next generation of U.S. scientists who will study the complex issues associated with hazardous chemicals in the environment, human and environmental risk assessment, contaminant detection, and contaminant remediation. The most unique aspect of that development is the emphasis on the incorporation of plants and plant-related technologies in this context. Specifically, the program has the following objectives: * To directly support student training and education in phytotechnologies as strategies for environmental remediation, management, and stewardship; * To increase student awareness of the broader roles of phytotechnologies in the protection of public health, risk assessment and the improvement of ecosystem function; * To provide students with professional development opportunities and the chance to network with international professionals working in the field of phytotechnologies. The Phyto-Scholars Program will run concurrently with the annual meeting in September 2015. The Phyto-Scholars will for the 2015 annual meeting of the International Phytotechnologies Society be involved in several professional development activities, including: 1) A luncheon with the conference organizing committee and invited speakers; 2) A networking mixer with phytotechnologies professionals and regulators; 3) Panel discussions on phytotechnology educational programs and career paths; 4) Panel discussion on multidisciplinary teams for phytotechnology projects; and 5) Risk, exposure, and risk reduction workshop with emphasis on brownfields and urban gardens. The Phyto-Scholars program within the IPS began in 2009 and has continued annually, supported by funds from the SRP. More than 100 students have been supported through the program to date. Funds from the NIEHS and the Superfund Research Program (SRP) have been utilized since 2009 to subsidize the travel of Phyto-Scholars to the annual meeting. The International Phytotechnologies Society requests funds to continue this program for the 2015 International Phytotechnologies Society annual meeting.