Updates about the application process will be posted here
1-credit distributed graduate seminar, linking across institutions
Hosted at University of Florida – Spring Semester: Jan 12 – Apr 22/30, 2026
How can we understand and improve the broader ecosystem of people, institutions, and plant systems that determine whether plant health management is successful?
Course goal
Collaboratively develop the new concept of the ‘plant health management ecosystem’ and publish a high-impact concept paper about it in a leading journal, with key case studies
Learning objectives
- Evaluate current models of business ecosystems, innovation ecosystems, public health ecosystems, biosecurity ecosystems, policy ecosystems, agent-based models, and related concepts
- Evaluate current needs and gaps in plant health management
- Create the new ‘plant health management ecosystem’ framework, and use it to identify actionable ways to improve real-world systems
Benefits to students selected for participation
Expand your thinking about complex plant health systems and maximize your research impact
Coauthor a peer-reviewed paper in a leading scientific journal: Participants who complete seminar requirements and make substantive contributions to concept development will be coauthors of the concept paper
Network with leading scientists across institutions
Develop transferable skills in systems thinking, interdisciplinary synthesis, and collaborative publication
Meeting dates and time – one hour weekly – timing to be determined based on participants’ schedules and time zones
Case study systems will include
- Laurel wilt management in avocado and forest systems
- Bacterial spot management in tomato
- Additional systems based on participants’ interests
How to apply: Visit www.garrettlab.com/phm-ecosystem for updates on application requirements and deadlines