DB Award — Broadening Disciplinary Participation

The DB (Disciplinary Breadth) Award supports researchers from diverse, plant-related disciplines in attending the Maize Genetics Meeting. It is intended for advanced graduate students, post-docs, early-career faculty, and undergraduates from historically underrepresented groups, whether or not their current work is already in maize genetics.

Why This Matters

This award helps recruit and retain scientists whose expertise can enrich the maize genetics community—fields such as plant phenomics, engineering, systems biology, microbiomes, quantitative biology, and beyond. Recipients will have the chance to connect with maize researchers, explore new collaborations, and grow their careers.

What Is Covered

• Coverage of the conference registration fee

• Opportunities during the meeting to interact with peers, invited speakers, and program officers

Who Can Apply

• Candidates from plant-related disciplines outside core maize genetics (or early in their transition into maize)

• First-time attendees are especially encouraged to apply

Graduate students and post-docs should include a referee (name and email) or their supervisor.

How to Apply

1. Fill out the application form provided below

2. Submit a CV or résumé

3. Provide a short description of your research focus and explain how attending will enhance your work

4. (For students and post-docs) Include one referee or supervisor’s contact

Applicants are not required to have prior maize genetics research experience. Submitting an abstract (poster or talk) is encouraged—even if not directly maize-related. The abstract submission window extends until January 10.

All awardees (students, post-docs, and faculty) will complete short pre- and post-meeting surveys and submit a summary statement of their meeting experience. Reimbursements will be processed upon receipt of all required documentation.

🗓 Deadline - For consideration, applications must be submitted by November 21.