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Durbin discusses critical bee research at University of Illinois

 U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today held a roundtable discussion at the University of Illinois with scientists, administrators, and beekeepers regarding their bee genomics research—which is sequencing the genomes of more than 4,...
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New model can accurately predict a forest’s future

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — One of the great challenges of ecology is to understand the factors that maintain, or undermine, diversity in ecosystems, researchers write in a new report in the journal Science. The researchers detail their development of a new model that — using a tree census and genomic data...
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Plant Biology Department Head Katy Heath recognized as one of five University Scholars

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Five professors at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have been named University Scholars in recognition of their achievements in teaching, scholarship and service.The program honors faculty excellence and provides $15,000 to each scholar for three years to enhance their...
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How drought and ozone pollution team up to reduce soybean yield

In a decisive new study, crop scientists at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and USDA’s Agricultural Research...
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Researchers investigate tomato plant defense mechanisms in response to environmental stressors

A recent study published in Plant and Soil explores how tomato plants utilize both aboveground and belowground defense strategies when exposed to simultaneous environmental stressors. The research, titled "Interactions between soil source, flooding, and herbivory shape tomato plant...
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Acting Head and Entomology Professor Andrew Suarez named a 2025 Fellow of ESA

The Entomological Society of America (ESA) has honored Dr. Andrew Suarez, acting head and professor in the Department of Entomology, by naming him a 2025 Fellow of the Society.Being named an ESA Fellow is a recognition of an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the science and...
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Study identifies gene clusters in rhizobia linked to robust legume growth

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — In a new study, scientists used nearly every tool in their toolkit — genomics, transcriptomics, greenhouse experiments and advanced statistical methods — to gain new insight into the complex chemical interactions that take place in underground root nodules, where legumes like...
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Plant Biology faculty honored with prestigious campus awards

The School of Integrative Biology proudly congratulates two outstanding faculty members in the Department of Plant Biology. Dr. James O’Dwyer has been recognized with the 2025 Campus Distinguished Promotion Award and...
Andy Suarez sitting on a fallen tree

Dr. Andrew Suarez Receives Distinguished Naturalist Award from the American Society of Naturalists

The School of Integrative Biology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is proud to announce that Dr. Andrew Suarez, Acting Head and Professor of Entomology, has...
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Assistant Professor Esther Ndumi Ngumbi Pens Father's Day Op‑Ed for NPR’s Goats & Soda

On June 15, 2025, SIB’s own Assistant Professor of Entomology and African-American Studies, Dr. Esther Ndumi Ngumbi, authored a heartfelt opinion piece for NPR’s Goats & Soda, published on Father’s Day. Drawing on personal...