Federal Project Grant Award Summary

Mississippi State University received a $703,995 CAREER (Faculty Early Career Development Program) Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's Division of Environmental Biology (CFDA 47.074 – Biological Sciences) awarded August 1, 2026, with completion targeted for July 31, 2031. The project will develop genomic resources for two invasive slug genera (Arion and Deroceras) widespread in North America, utilizing phylogenetics, population genetics, environmental data analysis, and artificial intelligence (AI) to elucidate their invasion histories and identify ecological and evolutionary drivers of their rapid spread. Research outputs will include newly generated genomic datasets, inference models of invasion pathways into North America, and identification of biological traits that promote successful establishment of these crop pest species.

In addition to research products, the award supports educational and outreach deliverables designed to build workforce capacity in biological research and invasive species management. The project will develop an undergraduate course on invasive species that emphasizes both technical and professional skills critical to contemporary scientific employment, provide undergraduate students with opportunities to analyze biological datasets and participate in research activities, and conduct community outreach to local gardeners on invasive slug identification and management. These integrated research, educational, and outreach components align with the Biological Sciences program's emphasis on fundamental research that advances scientific understanding while strengthening the nation's scientific workforce and public engagement.