AMES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa State University is proposing a new research center designed to improve the productivity and profit of soybean farmers. The plan released Tuesday would create the Iowa Soybean Research Center in the school’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

The center would bring together educators and scientists from the public and private sectors to “advance the science and business of growing soybeans in Iowa.” The goals would include advancing the understanding of soybean plant biology, increasing soybean production and making production more profitable and environmentally sustainable.

Iowa is the nation’s leading producer of soybeans, and the crop is a vital protein source for the world. The proposed center would look at ways to diversify production and manage pests. The Board of Regents will consider the plan next week in Ames.