Non Technical Summary
The project aims to train undergraduate students dedicated to using biotechnologies to tackle challenges in food and agriculture. Our multidisciplinary team, with expertise in biology, chemistry, engineering, economics, environment, and education, will use hands-on learning activities to teach four biotechnology modules. We will shift from traditional passive learning to an active, problem-orientedapproach to foster critical thinking, collaboration, and practical application of biotechnology knowledge to real-world problems. Over four years, this project will prepare 32 undergraduates for STEM careers related to food and agricultural resources in the United States. This will help meet the growing demand for a biotech workforce.

Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
402	0650	3020	50%
125	4099	1000	50%

Knowledge Area
125 - Agroforestry; 402 - Engineering Systems and Equipment;

Subject Of Investigation
4099 - Microorganisms, general/other; 0650 - Wood and wood products;

Field Of Science
3020 - Education; 1000 - Biochemistry and biophysics;

Goals / Objectives
The project aims to offer a cohort of undergraduate students experiential learning opportunities, preparing them for careers in the biotech sector.

Project Methods
(1) Offer a comprehensive understanding of biotechnologies through a series of seminars as well as engaging in literature reading and sharing during the spring semester; (2) Provide hands-on experiential learning experiences to develop practical skills and organize project design competitions during the summer semester; and (3) Instruct participants on preparing symposium presentations to showcase research findings and host career workshops to enhance students' awareness of job applications.