The research being conducted by our graduate students is at the core of scientific advancement within our Societies. Thus, we present a session, sponsored and run by the graduate students, to address to all members of the Societies the future of research. As has been stated numerous times before, the research funding culture is in a new paradigm that has not necessarily been faced before. As such, researchers must adapt to the changing times and address the concerns of a growing population with increased concern and scrutiny. This session is designed to serve as a platform for addressing the new reality in research and research funding, bringing together currently established and future professionals, both in the private and public nexus, from the fields of agronomy, crops and soils.  A panel of established experts with an in-depth understanding of the funding arena and future of ACS research will discuss the “sleeping giant” topics of  research including the perceived disconnect between relevant research and available funding, as well as the perpetual “battle” of basic vs. applied fields. The session will be live-tweeted, moderating burning questions from the in-person audience and abroad to our panel of experts. In addition, a student-developed and written article on the key takeaways from the session will be featured in CSA News.