The program leading to the Doctor of Philosophy in Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics provides a broad exposure in the various disciplines involved with plant improvement. The program is truly interdisciplinary with faculty participants from agronomy, biochemistry, botany, entomology, genetics, horticulture, plant pathology, and statistics. Research areas include biochemical and molecular genetics, bioinformatics, biometry, cytogenetics and cytology, genecology, genetics, plant breeding, and quantitative genetics.<br><br>The Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics Program has been designated a UW System Center of Excellence. The 50–60 students majoring in the program come from throughout the United States and all over the world. Faculty have included members of the National Academy of Sciences, endowed chair professors, and recipients of the National Council of Plant Breeders "Genetic and Plant Breeding Award." The University of Wisconsin leads the nation in the diversity of plant breeding programs and number of graduate students trained. Graduates are found in responsible positions with academic institutions, research institutions, and private companies involved in molecular to cultivar development work.