The Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) is the state’s technology-based economic development agency.

Workshops are scheduled in the following locations:

·        October 9 in Exhibit Room 1 of the Student Union at Oklahoma State University – Stillwater

·        October 17 in the Kruse Auditorium at the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation – Ardmore

Statement of Intent forms to apply for the funds are due in OCAST offices by November 14 and the actual applications must be received by December 5.

Eligible applicants include Oklahoma scientists who conduct basic and applied research in the field of plant sciences.  Applications will undergo peer review and funds will be awarded based on scientific merit, collaborative effort and the leverage of federal and private funds.  A dollar-for-dollar match is required for the applied applications.

OCAST has a total of $270,000 for the next two years to invest in plant science research in Oklahoma.  Earlier this year OCAST awarded funds to six individual research projects – the first to receive funding under the new Oklahoma Plant Science Research (OPSR) program.

Plant science holds promise for finding cures for disease, new sources of energy and innovative new fibers for mankind.

For more information, contact Melissa Bayan toll-free 866-256-2215, 405-319-8410 in Oklahoma City or email mbayan@ocast.state.ok.us.  Details about the Oklahoma Plant Sciences Research program are available on the OCAST Web site, www.ocast.state.ok.us.