Plant breeding and genetics are fundamental to a secure and abundant supply of food, feed, fibers for clothing and shelter, and biomass for conversion into renewable energy. Research in this area in the Department of Agronomy involves broad and extensive activities and collaborations, including: education and hands-on research development for students for BS, MS and PhD degrees, and postdoctoral training; research interactions collaborations with federal government agencies and businesses in the seed industry, partnering with government agencies and industry in the education training of student sand providing conduits for graduates for continued career development, building professional relationships with alumni and industry, and providing professional leadership at national and international levels.