Iowa State University

About the Seed Science Center at Iowa State University

More than 130 years of seed testing, research, education, and outreach

Located on the campus of Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, the Seed Science Center (SSC) is a globally recognized hub of excellence in seed testing, research, education, systems development, and international programs. It is a leader in developing science to inform policy to benefit the world seed trade.

Seed testing for quality assurance. The Center is home to the Seed Lab, one of the largest public testing laboratories in the U.S. that has provided accurate and professional seed testing services to growers and the seed industry for more than 130 years. It receives an average of 31,000 seed samples of crops, flowers, vegetables, and tree species each year that are tested for health, purity, germination, and traits.

Safeguarding international seed health. The Center administers the National Seed Health Service, a government-industry effort under the U.S. Department of Agriculture to establish standardized seed health laboratory tests and phytosanitary inspection procedures. The Service also accredits entities to carry out phytosanitary inspection and lab tests for the certification of seeds bound for export.

Spurring innovation through seed research. SSC research deepens our understanding of the complex interactions between environment, genome, phenotype, seed treatment, and seed storage on seed characteristics and quality. Research in seed pathology examines the etiology and management of pathogens and pests attacking seeds and seedlings, the management and impacts of mycotoxigenic fungi in maize, and seed health test development.

Training tomorrow’s seed leaders. The Center offers the exclusively online Seed Technology and Business graduate program, which is unique in combining seed science and technology with business management courses in a rigorous, integrated curriculum.

SSC also provides training for seed industry professionals, researchers, students and policymakers from across the globe through workshops offered onsite or online.

Expanding access to quality seeds across the globe. The Center has a strong global presence, providing national and regional seed authorities, sed companies, and seed trade associations with expertise on seed laws, regulations, seed quality assurance, and policies that facilitate the movement and trade of seeds.

We’re in the Pitch Points area on Tuesday. We look forward to seeing you there to brainstorm how we can collaborate and be of service to you.—Lulu Rodriguez, lulurod@iastate.edu; Tess Howard, thoward@iastate.edu; Lori Youngberg, lyoung@iastate.edu

Seed Science Center

162 Seed Science Bldg.

2115 Osborn Drive

Ames, Iowa, USA 50011-1050

+1 (515) 294-6821

www.seeds.iastate.edu

Seed Science: seedsci@iastate.edu

Seed Lab: seedlab@iastate.edu

Seed Technology and Business Graduate Program: seedgrad@iastate.edu

National Seed Health System: nshs@iastate.edu