Plenary lecture by Philip Benfey, Duke University and HHMI entitled 'A systems approach to improved root traits ' This lecture took place during the New Phytologist next generation scientists conference, held at the John Innes Centre in July 2014 (http://www.newphytologist.org/nextgensci). New Phytologist next generation scientists was a unique event, fully funded by the New Phytologist Trust and Wiley, which aimed to provide the next generation of plant scientists a chance to share their work with their peers and leading international scientists in a stimulating, supportive and exciting environment. Audio recorded and produced by Leeds Media Services http://www.leedsmediaservices.co.uk