While MSU Greenhouse Updates Spark Innovative Research, Needs Remain

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

EAST LANSING, Mich. — On May 14, Michigan State University leaders welcomed more than 100 stakeholders and partners to campus to commemorate the opening of the partially renovated Plant Science Research Greenhouse Complex.

The event recognized the first phases of needed infrastructure improvements that bolster MSU’s world-class plant science research,

including installation of LED lighting, environmental control systems, new glazing panels to replace the aging glass shell of the greenhouses, and a new headhouse that serves as the facility’s center of operations. Taller ceilings also allow for the uninhibited growth of crops such as corn and sorghum.

Each of Michigan’s plant commodities is represented in the research greenhouses, ranging from corn and soybeans to blueberries, potatoes and several floriculture crops. Nearly 70 faculty members from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and College of Natural Science utilize the facility alongside hundreds of staff and students, bringing the total number of facility users to more than 400.

Although the facility upgrades thus far are a sign of tremendous progress, MSU leaders and researchers understand there’s work to be done. Upon completion of this phase of the project in April, approximately 60% of the complex has been addressed. The remaining 40% is operating with minimal to no upgrades.

Fundraising will continue in order to procure the investment required to bridge that gap.

MSU staff are actively pursuing federal and state grants, as well as seeking financial support from private donors and industry organizations.

MSU AgBioResearch Associate Director Kang Xia said university leaders are committed to helping secure the resources that will provide scientists with the highest-quality facilities to drive Michigan agriculture forward.

“The upgraded greenhouses are a testament to what can be accomplished through our great partnerships across Michigan agriculture,” Xia said. “Our partners have helped us emphasize the importance of this project for our state and beyond, but our work is not finished. To reap the full benefit, and to meet the needs throughout Michigan agriculture now and in the future, the entire facility must adhere to this new quality standard.”

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Michigan State University AgBioResearch scientists discover dynamic solutions for food systems and the environment. More than 300 MSU faculty conduct leading-edge research on a variety of topics, from health and agriculture to natural resources. Originally formed in 1888 as the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, MSU AgBioResearch oversees numerous on-campus research facilities, as well as 15 outlying centers throughout Michigan. To learn more, visit agbioresearch.msu.edu.