Video by Ohio University Communications and Marketing
How do plants grow in response to gravity—on Earth and in space?
Dr. Sarah Wyatt is Professor of Environmental & Plant Biology, director of the Molecular and Cellular Biology program, and a Presidential Research Scholar at Ohio University.
In “Research Moment,” Wyatt explains how her lab studies how gravity—or the lack of it—influences the growth patterns of plants. In addition to examining the implications for agriculture here on Earth, Wyatt has sent seedlings to the International Space Station in order to understand how the space flight environment affects plant development.
“The No. 1 thing about doing research—it’s fun. We do this because we’re curious. We want to know how something works,” Wyatt says.
“It’s a lot of hard work. There’s a lot of pieces in it, but you have to keep reminding yourself: This is the question. This is the information we’re looking for.
“And when you find it, you’re the first person to ever have seen it. You’re the first person to know this. That’s the coolest part.”
Dr. Sarah Wyatt
Wyatt’s research has been funded by entities such as the National Science Foundation, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the United States Department of Agriculture. Her lab provides research opportunities for Ohio University undergraduate and graduate students, who have used the experience to pursue careers in academia and industry.
“Research Moment” is a video series produced by the Office of Research Communications and University Communications and Marketing.
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