The Botany Department is unique because of our focus on fundamental research and teaching on plants as well as our study of populations, communities and ecosystems of which they are the key component. Our faculty conducts basic and applied research relevant to the state, nation and globe. Such topics include ecological disturbance, invasive species, symbiosis, global climate change, ecohydrology, forestry, and GMOs. These topics are investigated using such tools as spatial data analysis, remote sensing, genomics, computational science, stable isotopes, microscopy, biogeochemical and physiological approaches and field and laboratory experiments. Our students receive a high quality education through engagement in these topics and tools and faculty involvement in science education research.