This book bridges the gap between science communication and plant-microbe communication and shows how both can be exploited to make agriculture more sustainable. It highlights how communication is crucial for any successful interaction: whether a scientist trying to reach a specific audience, or a microbe trying to start a symbiotic interaction with a host plant, both need effective ways for conveying a message.
Written by scientists for scientists, this book starts by showcasing how effective communication can amplify the impact of scientific work. The authors highlight how every scientist can be a communicator by sharing their own perspectives and practical examples. Expanding on the award-winning 2024 Science-in-Shorts video "Microbial Medicine for Plants", the book then explores plant-microbe interactions, explaining how microbes aid plant growth, nutrient uptake, and stress resistance. It introduces key microbes like Streptomyces, rhizobia, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, and discusses their potential role in sustainable agriculture.
In the final part of the book, readers will learn how the concepts behind plant-microbe interactions can only be applied in sustainable agriculture by effective science communication with the public, farmers and policymakers alike! Although the example of plant-microbe interactions is highlighted, the concepts and tips provided in this book go beyond plant scientists. This book offers valuable insights for researchers, educators, and anyone interested in making science accessible and relevant. Whether is it with a pen or camera, Rooted in Communication – Effective Dialogue in Science and Plant-microbe Interactions will inspire readers to start sharing their work.
Sylwia Struk, Ph.D., is a senior postdoctoral researcher at the VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology, Belgium. She studies the molecular regulation of soybean nodulation and symbiotic nitrogen fixation, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers.
Michiel Vandecasteele, Ph.D., is a postdoctoral researcher at VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology, Belgium, and his work focuses on plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) to boost drought tolerance in maize for climate-resilient agriculture.
Celine De Pessemier is a predoctoral fellow at VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology, Belgium, developing biocontrol strategies with Streptomyces to protect wheat from pathogens, offering eco-friendly alternatives to pesticides.
Toon Leroy is a predoctoral researcher at VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology, Belgium, studying arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi effectors that enable symbiosis with tomato plants, advancing plant-fungal partnerships.
Arne Temmerman, Ph.D., is a postdoctoral researcher at VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology, Belgium, leading a soybean cultivation project in Flanders through direct farmer engagement to promote sustainable crop diversification.
Beyond research, the authors excel in science communication: Celine and Arne, together with three other colleagues, co-host the podcast “De Microcast”. The authors also write for popular science outlets, engage in public events, and designed “The Rhizosphere”, an educational board game about soil microbiomes.
