16th International Congress on Nitrogen Fixation in Big Sky, Montana

Montana State University, Bozeman MT

Investigators

Abstract

The 16th International Congress on Nitrogen Fixation will take place June 14-19th, 2009, in Big Sky, Montana. This meeting attracts over 400 participants from around the world to share research, establish collaborations and bring synergy and synthesis to the many interdisciplinary projects on the topic of nitrogen fixation. Nitrogen fixation remains a very significant topic given the challenges of world population growth with respect to world agriculture and human nutrition. While much progress has been made in the field, much is still to be learned and very difficult work remains. The program includes well known keynote speakers, plenary sessions as well as more focused concurrent topic sessions, as well as poster sessions while providing ample time for one on one interaction. The subject matter of this conference has evolved over the years, ranging from very basic research to applied biotechnology and includes cutting edge sections on molecular biology, ecology, and applied production methods. Funds are requested to partially support attendance of young researchers (graduate students, postdocs, or junior faculty). Broader Impacts The conference has a history of being inclusive of young scientists as well as women. The Organizing Committee is making a special effort to encourage the attendance of colleagues at institutions that serve significant populations of underrepresented students to establish contacts with these students. This conference provides an opportunity for young research scientists to interact with diverse international scientists is an important component of training the US workforce for a global research endeavor. This will facilitate networking and establishing collaborative ties with international groups. Enhancing the use and management of biologically fixed nitrogen will result in important environmental, humanitarian, and economic benefits.