NDSU Department of Plant Sciences doctoral student Jayanta Roy was selected by the Phi Kappa Phi honor society to receive the Love of Learning award.

In the award letter, the national Phi Kappa Phi awards manager wrote, “The committee was impressed with your superior academic record and life/career ambitions.”

The Love of Learning award helps fund professional development for post-baccalaureate Phi Kappa Phi members. Professional development activities may include doctoral dissertations, continuing education, career development and travel related to teaching, research and learning. Roy plans to use his award funds to attend the 2020 ASA-CSSA-SSSA international annual meetings in Phoenix.

Roy’s doctoral dissertation research topic is “Breeding for Sclerotinia Stem Rot Resistance in Rapeseed/Canola.” His adviser is Mukhlesur Rahman, associate professor and oilseed breeding project leader.

Roy was inducted into Phi Kappa Phi in November 2018. The honor society recognizes academic excellence in all disciplines. According to the NDSU Chapter of Phi Kappa Phi, approximately 3 percent of the university’s student population achieves the level of academic performance required for membership. It is the only academic honor society at NDSU eligible for a special designation on the student’s transcript.

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