# RESEARCH-PGR TRACK: Genetic basis of developmentally regulated heat stress response in rice

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Nebraska-Lincoln (NE) · $600,000

## Abstract

Plant reproduction is highly sensitive to environmental factors such as water and temperature. About seventy percent of human caloric needs are fulfilled directly or indirectly by grains/seed, which are a product of plant reproduction. Hence improving the environmental stress tolerance of staple crops (such as corn, wheat, rice, soybeans) during grain development is important for ensuring food sufficiency and nutritional value. This project will make genetic discoveries to enhance productivity and quality of rice grains during heat stress. The recent development of high-resolution imaging platform by this research team will lead to novel insights on how, when, and where plants respond to stress. Beyond genetic discoveries, this project will enable technological advancement in modeling and imaging techniques that have a broader impact on multiple scientific fields. Findings from rice will be applicable to other cereals such as wheat and corn because of how similar their grains develop. Outreach and training of K-12 students and high school teachers on combining biology with imaging technologies and data analysis will generate interest in science and technology thus advancing the nation’s goals of fostering a technology ready workforce.
   
Even a transient heat stress occurring after fertilization can impact the grain size and quality in rice. Grain development on rice inflorescence (panicle) is asynchronous due to spatial variability in timing of fertilization. Heat stress 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2514397
- **Awardee organization:** University of Nebraska-Lincoln (NE)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** HTQ6K6NJFHA6
- **PI:** Harkamal Walia
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** PLANT GENOME RESEARCH PROJECT, PLANT GENOME RESEARCH RESOURCE, Biotechnology, AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES, UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION, GRADUATE INVOLVEMENT
- **Estimated total:** $600,000
- **Funds obligated:** $600,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2514397

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2514397, RESEARCH-PGR TRACK: Genetic basis of developmentally regulated heat stress response in rice. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2514397. Licensed CC0.

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