Under one leaf: an historical perspective on the UK Plant Science Federation.

Abstract

The UK Plant Science Federation was established at the end of 2011. This article explores the significance of this venture through a lens based on the history of plant genetics throughout the 20th century. We illustrate the advantages and difficulties in building and maintaining collaborative links between researchers working with crops and model species and the significance of such collaborations for the future of plant science in the UK and further afield. In particular, we explore how the success and failures in the plant molecular genetics and genomics sector can help inform the activities of the UKPSF and, conversely, how the UKPSF can help unite the many and various plant science spheres in the UK in order to tackle current global challenges.