The plant biology major is for students who love plants and science. You can explore plants at the molecular, cellular, organismal, whole plant, and ecological levels. The coursework in plant biology is flexible, so it's all about helping you discover the right career path. Students are required to fulfill one of the two options offered: biotechnology or ecology and management.
Planning Your Degree
Creating an individual development plan is important to make sure you get all the courses, experiences and knowledge you want while in college. Some students complete extended internships (6-, 9-, or 12-month) and take an extra semester or two to graduate, while other students have a lot of dual credit from high school and graduate in 3 or 3.5 years. Each student has their own goals and timeline, and these may change as you progress in your academic program and discover new paths. Whenever your target graduation date is, make sure you work with your advisor to get the courses and experiences you want while hitting your target graduation date.
Scholarships
The Department of Agronomy and Horticulture offers scholarships to students enrolled in the agronomy, plant and landscape systems, or plant biology majors (CASNR). Each year approximately 80 students receive departmental scholarships that total more than $120,000.
Careers
While the major offers many career opportunities after graduation, most students choose to continue their education and go on to earn graduate degrees. Careers are possible as a(n):
- Educator/Researcher
- Ecosystem manager
- Plant breeder
- Field biologist
- Environmental consultant
- Plant ecologist
- Genetic engineer
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Internships
Internships and research experiences are key components of your academic experience. They allow you to explore different areas of plant biology, make connections with future employers, and experience a professional environment. One research experience and one internship are required for graduation. Plant biology internships and research experiences are available across Nebraska and the United States. Recent student internships include:
- Dow Agro Sciences, York, Nebraska
- Buffalograss breeding, University of Nebraska–Lincoln,
Lincoln, Nebraska - Plant pathology, University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska
- Corn genetics and breeding, University of Nebraska–Lincoln,
Lincoln, Nebraska - Evolutionary ecology in sunflower, University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska
- Molecular genetics and abiotic stresses in crops, University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska
- Crop diseases, Pioneer Hi-Bred, Johnston, Iowa
- Eastern filbert blight resistance on Hazelnut, Nebraska Forest Service, Plattsmouth, Nebraska
- Maize breeding, Monsanto, Lincoln, Nebraska
- Drought in maize, Pioneer Hi-Bred, Woodland, California
Plant Biology Club
The Plant Biology Club’s purpose is:
- to provide mentorship and identity for students in the plant biology major and minor.
- to support undergraduate and graduate students.
- to support those engaged in research studying a range of topics, including molecular genetics, plant ecology, plant conservation and nutrient management.
Contact Adviser Christian Elowsky for information at 402-472-2848.
Meet Our Student Ambassadors
Plant Biology Student Services
Plant Biology Steering Committee
| Name | Role | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| David Holding | Program Director | Professor, Associate Department Head, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture |
| Christian Elowsky | Academic Advisor, New Student Advisor | Assistant Professor of Practice, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture |
| Cheryl Dunn | Academic Advisor, New Student Advisor | Lecturer, Herbarium Curator, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture |
| Rebecca Roston | Mentor/Member | Ralph and Alice Raikes Chair in Plant Sciences Associate Professor, Biochemistry |
| Brandi Sigmon | Mentor/Member | Assistant Professor of Practice, Department of Plant Pathology |
| Joe Louis | Mentor/Member | Harold W. Eberhard Professor of Agricultural Entomology, Department of Entomology |
| Yeyin Shi | Mentor/Member | Associate Professor and Agricultural Intelligence Engineer, Biological Systems Engineering |
| Sabrina Russo | Mentor/Member | Professor, School of Biological Sciences |
Plant Biology Steering Committee, Standard Operating Procedure