During the academic year, MPGI sponsors a lecture series featuring the latest research of members of the National Academy of Sciences.  Prominent scientists, particularly in the field of microbial and/or plant science, are invited to the campus each semester to present seminars, discuss research, and interact with students, faculty, and the public.

The NAS member joins MPGI faculty for dinner the evening before the seminar; the next day, faculty and their project members join the visitor for discussions. After presenting a research seminar, the invitee meets privately with graduate students and postdoctoral associates to discuss the pros and cons of an academic career, integrity in research, and related issues.  The events take place in the Cargill Building for Microbial and Plant Genomics.

Periodically, MPGI faculty are asked to identify eminent scientists to invite as speakers, but they may suggest extending an invitation to a distinguished researcher at anytime. The steering committee makes the final selection of speakers for the year, and those remaining on the list are nominees for the following year.

Leading Edge Technologies Seminar Series

MPGI sponsors a seminar series based on the latest, cutting-edge techniques or applications of techniques emerging as important tools in the field of microbial and plant genomics that are not readily available on campus.  Researchers who either have developed a technique or who have significantly adapted one are invited to campus to present a seminar, and meet with faculty and members of their projects. Formally or informally, the visitor provides the theoretical principles underlying the technique.

Topics and speakers are identified by surveying the suggestions and needs of faculty, their students, and project members in the Institute.

Seminars take place in the Cargill Building for Microbial and Plant Genomics, unless specialized equipment for demonstration is required and not available in the building.