Douglas D. Buhler, Director
The research programs of MSU AgBioResearch help to keep Michigan agriculture competitive, foster stewardship of natural resources, ensure food safety, build stronger, healthier families and communities, and spur economic development throughout the state. The mission of AgBioResearch - to engage in innovative, leading edge research that ensures the wise use of agricultural, natural and community resources and enhances the quality of life in Michigan, the nation and the world - is an integral part of Michigan State University's responsibilities as a land-grant university.
AgBioResearch is composed of a network of on-campus laboratories and research centers across the state. More than 330 faculty members from 30 academic departments, research institutes and laboratories across MSU receive support from AgBioResearch. In addition to the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, AgBioResearch is affiliated with the College of Arts and Letters, College of Communication Arts and Sciences, College of Engineering, College of Natural Science, College of Osteopathic Medicine, College of Social Science, and the College of Veterinary Medicine. AgBioResearch helps Michigan agriculture compete nationally and globally by developing ways to increase production efficiency, improve product quality and meet market needs. Other research focuses on food safety and security, natural resource management and the emerging bioeconomy. Research also concentrates on economic development, recreation and tourism, climate change and water quality.
AgBioResearch activities are conducted in laboratories, greenhouses and several south campus experimental lands in East Lansing. Research also takes place at the 14 off-campus field research centers ranging from a forest biomass innovation center in the Upper Peninsula to fruit and vegetable research centers in the southernmost counties of the state.
AgBioResearch, following in the land-grant tradition, is about more than agriculture. It is an idea for higher education that combines practical information with innovative scientific studies to generate knowledge to meet rapidly changing needs in the state and nation.
Organized under the Hatch Act of 1887, AgBioResearch has been part of Michigan State University for most of the university's 150-year history. Funding comes from the state and federal governments, commodity groups, industries, foundations and individuals.