Arkansas Biosciences Institute at Arkansas State University

ABI is pleased to share that Dr. Argelia Lorence and Dr. Reinier Gesto-Borroto have co-authored a new research article published in Frontiers in Plant Science. Congratulations to the authors on this important contribution to the field of plant science!

The study explores the effects of a prebiotic-based biostimulant (FoliarBlend) on rice (Oryza sativa cv. Kitaake), integrating high-throughput phenotyping and physiological analysis to track plant development from seed germination through grain production. The findings show that FoliarBlend can enhance seedling vigor, photosynthetic efficiency, biomass accumulation, and ultimately grain yield under controlled conditions, while also providing new insights into plant developmental trade-offs.

This work highlights the importance of combining advanced phenotyping platforms with traditional plant science approaches to better understand biostimulant mode of action and improve sustainable crop productivity.

📄 Read the full article here:

Frontiers | A prebiotic-based biostimulant enhances growth parameters, photosynthetic efficiency, and grain yield in rice (Oryza sativa ssp. japonica) Biostimulants constitute an emerging class of biological inputs with potential to boost crop yield in a sustainable manner. However, such products must be te...

We're proud to see research and innovation from across Arkansas State University highlighted in Turning the Corner on Discovery.

Several stories featured in this publication showcase the impactful work of Arkansas Biosciences Institute researchers, students, and collaborators. Explore how ABI-supported research is advancing science, driving innovation, and making a difference in Arkansas and beyond.

Arkansas State University recently released "Turning the Corner on Discovery," a research publication highlighting groundbreaking research and innovation happening within the university.

"Turning the Corner on Discovery" recognizes how research at A-State is making an impact in Arkansas and beyond. Through stories of faculty, students, and cutting-edge facilities, this publication highlights the work advancing science, supporting industry, and improving lives.

For more information, visit https://issuu.com/arkansasstate/docs/turning_the_corner_on_discovery_research_publicati

ABI is hiring: Hourly Student – Animal Facility 🐭

The Arkansas Biosciences Institute (ABI) is looking for a dependable Arkansas State University student to assist with animal care, facility maintenance, sanitation, record keeping, and research support.

This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a research environment and build valuable skills for careers in science, healthcare, veterinary medicine, and research.

Apply here:

Hiring Hourly Student, Arkansas Biosciences Institute - ASU-Jonesboro We are seeking a responsible and detail-oriented Part-Time Animal Care Technician to support the daily operations of the Animal Research Facility at the Arkansas Biosciences Institute. This role is ideal for a student currently enrolled at Arkansas State University who is interested in gaining hands...

Grant Writing Workshop 2026

The office of Research and Technology Transfer (RTT) recently hosted a 5-Day Grant Writing Workshop at the Arkansas Biosciences Institute (ABI) for early-career faculty.

With 21 participants representing every academic college at Arkansas State University, the workshop created an exciting environment for learning, collaboration, and idea exchange.

Throughout the week, participants explored grant development strategies, proposal design, budgeting, funding opportunities, review processes, and effective research communication through hands-on activities, discussions, and team exercises.

Thank you to all participants for their enthusiasm, engagement, and commitment to advancing research excellence at A-State. We look forward to seeing the innovative proposals and future funding successes that emerge from this talented group!

Reminder: ANPS Spring Meeting 2026 is happening this weekend!

Join us May 15–17 at the Arkansas Biosciences Institute (Room 107) for a weekend of native plants, field trips, speakers, and community! 🌱

📍 Jonesboro, AR
💲 Only $10 Registration | Everyone Welcome!

📢 Attention ABI Faculty, Staff & Students!

A friendly reminder that A-State’s Summer Operating Schedule went into effect on Monday, May 11, 2026. ABI will also follow the university’s summer operating schedule.

🕗 Office Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Please plan your visits and communications accordingly.

Thank you and have a great summer! 🌞

We’re hiring! Join the Arkansas Biosciences Institute team as an Administrative Assistant. Apply now!

https://phe.tbe.taleo.net/phe02/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=ARKASTAT2&cws=40&rid=38735&fbclid=IwY2xjawRwdsxleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFMZUFQTjlZQUo5NWNadGdPc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHpPXwF7U5IcxZoz_ZRU5AXDbMuFlOFpXKNn9P7ikyB7VYqHoaR2VtykqIB-K_aem_TOQh8Bd5EUQGrUiBY7UjBA

ABI Undergraduate Research Scholar (URS) student Ravi Chaudhary presented at Create@State.

Title: Plant and Root Phenotyping at the Arkansas Biosciences Institute: Using Low-Cost Imaging Approaches

His work focused on using low-cost imaging methods for plant and root phenotyping studies. We are proud to see Ravi representing ABI and sharing his research at Create@State.

Congratulations to Dr. Fabricio Medina-Bolivar on being honored at the Research Excellence Award Luncheon 2026! 🎉

Director of Environmental Sciences and Molecular Biosciences, Professor of Plant Metabolic Engineering, and an affiliated researcher with the Arkansas Biosciences Institute (ABI), Dr. Medina-Bolivar is being recognized for his outstanding achievements, including the issuance of a patent in 2025. His innovative work reflects continued excellence in research, discovery, and translational science.

We’re proud to celebrate his accomplishments and contributions to impactful scientific advancement.

Congratulations to Dr. Jianfeng (Jay) Xu on being recognized at the 2026 Research Excellence Award Luncheon. 🎉

Dr. Xu was honored for outstanding achievements, including publication in a journal with an Impact Factor greater than 10, as well as being named a 2025 A-State Chancellor's Medal for Research and Creative Activities Awardee.

This recognition reflects a continued commitment to excellence in research, scholarship, and innovation. ABI is proud to celebrate this remarkable accomplishment.