UA SRP Trainee wins Travel Award
Sept. 27, 2015
Linnea Honeker, a University of Arizona Superfund Research Program trainee, was selected as a “PhytoScholar” to attend the 12th Conference of the International Phytotechnology Society, September 27-30, 2015 in Manhattan, Kansas. With a theme of “Phytotechnologies for Sustainable Development”, the conference focused on using plant-based technologies to address environmental challenges including the remediation of contaminated sites, as well as water, soil, and air.
The PhytoScholar educational program is designed to support US-based graduate students and post-docs in broadening their understanding of the field of Phytotechnology as well as how to translate their work to better protect public health and the environment. The travel award provided funds to attend the Phytotechnology Society Conference and a concurrent PhytoScholars Program.
Beyond presenting her own work entitled “Plant root-microbe community dynamics during the phytostabilization of metalliferous mine tailings in semiarid regions,” Honeker gained a broader understanding of the field. “I learned a lot about the different research being done from all over the world in this important area,” she says. “There were people from academia, government, and industry there, which provided a well-rounded perspective on the topic.” In particular, Honeker valued a special session for PhytoScholars on Phytotechnology careers, as she is anticipating her graduation next year.
Congratulations, Linnea!