We provide the rationale and broad outline for a long-term integrated research program that focuses on biochar, a relatively persistent solid form of C produced by thermal conversion of biomass under low-oxygen conditions. We believe that investment in this integrated long-term research program would, within a decade, resolve the most important information needs with respect to the technology for biochar and bioenergy production and the agronomic and environmental impacts of biochar use. This information is critically needed by both private and governmental decision makers to ensure that deployment will yield the maximum productivity, economic, and environmental benefits. Biochar and integrated biochar-bioenergy production systems have the potential to become a robust distributed industry supporting rural economies and an important part of a broader portfolio of solutions to climate change.