Welcome to the Department of Plant Pathology, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at North Dakota State University. By bringing together three disciplines under one roof, we've created a department with the depth to pursue fundamental discovery and the reach to deliver practical solutions to producers, to industries, and to communities across North Dakota and beyond. Our faculty, staff, and students work at the intersection of soil health, plant health, microbial science, and biotechnology innovation, advancing research that spans agriculture, human health, and beyond. We're developing the next generation of scientists for careers in agriculture, medicine, biotechnology, research, and industry, and translating knowledge into real-world impact through teaching, research, and Extension.
Our Programs
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Doctoral, Master's, Graduate Certificate
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Major, Minor
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Doctoral, Master’s
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Major, Minor
Agriculture's Miracle Bacteria
With support from Richard ’65 and Linda Offerdahl, NDSU researchers are working toward a new evolutionary event that will reduce the cost of fertilizer and eliminate harmful nitrogen runoff.

Future Students
You are here for a reason. If you are interested in plants or science and want to be sure that NDSU is the right fit for you, let us introduce ourselves and show you what we are all about.

Research
Research Faculty
The department’s research programs span plant disease biology and management, microbiome science and engineering, soil and environmental restoration, functional food development, gut microbiome physiology, biotechnology, and science education.
Plant Diagnostic Lab
For over 60 years, the NDSU Plant Diagnostic Lab (PDL) has provided unbiased assistance to professionals in agriculture and the general public to identify plant pest and disease problems.
Biotech Innovation Core
The Dr. Thomas Glass Biotech Innovation Core is a Biosafety Level 2 facility that supports NDSU researchers, industry partners, and government labs.
Contact Info
Plant Pathology Address:
Walster Hall 306, NDSU
Fargo, ND 58102
Microbiology and Biotechnology Address:
Van Es Hall, 1523 Centennial Blvd.,
Fargo, ND 58102
Plant Pathology Phone:
701-231-8362
Microbiology and Biotechnology Phone:
701-231-7512