Prof. Jon Shaw has won a Dimensions of Biodiversity Award from the National Science Foundation. The Program "links functional, genetic and phylogenetic dimensions of biodiversity, offering opportunities to produce rapid advances in understanding the creation, maintenance and loss of biodiversity." Prof. Shaw's project, entitled "Genome structure and adaptive evolution in peatmosses (Sphagnum): ecosystem engineers," will connect DNA variation in Sphagnum with specific plant traits and ultimately ecological functions of peatmoss. Sphagnum dominates peatlands in the Northern Hemisphere, and peatlands sequester disproportionate amounts of carbon. Understanding a humble moss better could help to solve giant problems of our climate.