On the Vine - October

Sona Pandey and Boominathan Mohanasundaram.

Scientists at the Danforth Center and the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology are launching a new research project on sphagnum moss, which plays a crucial role in carbon storage and combating climate change. By unlocking its genetic secrets, they aim to protect peatlands and help preserve our planet’s future. Read more.

Aerial view of the Danforth Center Field Research Site.

A Botanical Bash

Party with the Plants, hosted by the Danforth Center’s Young Friends, was a night of music, games, magic, and hands-on science—all in support of our research! See what made this celebration so special by watching the highlights video and reading our recap blog post here.

Bravo lab members holding signs reading thank you.

Thank You for Joining the Challenge!

Thank you to everyone who made this year’s Grow Challenge Week of Giving™ our most successful yet! Together, we raised more than $130,000 for plant science innovation and local STEM education. Special thanks to our Young Friends committee, individual donors, and all of our sponsors, listed below.

In the Media: Kernza On Tap

Allison Miller, PhD, was featured in a St. Louis Public Radio story about Kernza—a perennial grain recently used by Blue Jay Brewing to create a new, more eco-friendly lager. With its deep roots that help preserve the environment, Kernza has the potential to transform agriculture. Read more.

Events: BioBash | October 24

Want to take your scientific career to the next level and make some new friends along the way? Join us for BioBash 2024! This free, one-day event brings the St. Louis scientific community together for panel discussions, a job fair, and networking opportunities. Don’t miss out—register today!

EVENTS: Seeds of Change | October 29

Join us as Penny Pennington, Managing Partner of Edward Jones and Danforth Center Board Chair, shares the lessons she’s learned on building trust, finding purpose, and leading with empathy. This event is free to the public (virtual or in-person), but registration is required. Register here.

Give a Gift That Gives Back

Now is the perfect time to consider a charitable gift annuity (CGA). With the highest payout rates in 16 years, a CGA provides you with lifetime payments and potential tax benefits—while supporting our work to improve lives through plant science. Learn more at our Legacy giving site.