Welcome to the Summer 2026 edition of the PSI Newsletter. As we reach the midpoint of the year, I am glad to share the scientific breakthroughs, honors, and community milestones taking shape across the Center for Plant Science Innovation. Running through all of it is a single purpose: making plant science work for Nebraska's farmers and the public we serve.
It has been a season of recognition. James Schnable earned the National Academy of Sciences Prize in Food and Agriculture Sciences, the youngest researcher ever to receive it, and was one of five Huskers named Senior Members of the National Academy of Inventors. The American Oil Chemists' Society recognized work in lipid biochemistry with its Supelco Research Award, and PSI added a second member of the National Academy of Sciences this spring. Behind those honors is the science itself, and this issue's publication highlights show its range, from a multi-trait soybean built to supply the EPA, astaxanthin, and vitamin E that aquaculture feeds require, to the mapping of a "missing link" in how photosynthetic membranes are assembled inside the chloroplast. Work like this begins in the lab, but its aim is the field, the elevator, and the marketplace, new crops and new value for the state's growers.
Just as importantly, we are shining a light on the next generation. You will find an inspiring student spotlight on Cailin Smith, who defended her dissertation on chloroplast lipid transport this spring, alongside an update from CROPS showing how our graduate students continue to drive both research excellence and campus community.
Thank you to our researchers, staff, students, and supporters for making these PSI moments possible. I invite you to explore the stories below and see how our team keeps pushing plant science forward, from discovery toward real impact for Nebraska.
Ed Cahoon
Director
Center for Plant Science Innovation