Research

Felix Fritschi

April 1, 2025

Felix Fritschi named AAAS Fellow in recognition of contributions to field of crop physiology

Felix Fritschi, the C. Alice Donaldson Professor in CAFNR’s Division of Plant Science and Technology and interim director of the Missouri Soybean Center, is among four University of Missouri researchers recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) as 2024 Fellows for their distinguished efforts in advancing various fields of science.
Shortfin mako shark

March 12, 2025

Mako shark trekking patterns reveal a hidden impact of changing ocean temperatures

Shortfin mako sharks, an endangered species, are among the fastest and most elusive predators in the ocean, and new research led by Michael Byrne, associate professor of wildlife ecology at the University of Missouri’s School of Natural Resources (SNR) sheds light on the limitations of their habitat availability caused by oceanography. The research tracked mako sharks over vast distances using satellite telemetry. Byrne’s findings reveal a pattern in movements and distribution of the apex predators spanning thousands of miles across the Pacific Ocean, highlighting the sharks’ dependence on one very specific factor — oxygen levels in the water.
field day participant drives a robotic tool in the field

March 6, 2025

MU Digital Agriculture Research and Extension Center to host second Digital Agriculture Symposium

The University of Missouri’s Digital Agriculture Research and Extension Center (DAREC) is hosting its second Digital Agriculture Symposium, “Empowering Agriculture Using AI and Digital Agriculture Technology” in April. “The landscape of agriculture is changing rapidly as digital technology advances,” said Jianfeng Zhou, associate professor of Agricultural Systems Technology in MU’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources. “We are delighted to be able to share these advances and some of our research in that space and help Missouri’s agricultural producers make informed decisions about incorporating these new technologies into their farming practices.” The symposium consists of a…
Soy at harvest

March 6, 2025

Strengthening Missouri agriculture through partnership

The College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) at the University of Missouri and the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council (MSMC) share a steadfast commitment to research and innovation that drives the future of soybean farming in Missouri. Their long-standing partnership focuses on sustainability, agronomic advancements, developing the next generation of plant scientists and increasing the efficiency and profitability of soybean production. “Our partnership with CAFNR has been beneficial in driving research, innovation and sustainability efforts that impact Missouri’s soybean growers.” said Missouri Soybean Association CEO and Executive Director Gary Wheeler. “Whether it’s developing disease-resistant soybean varieties,…
Black walnuts on a tree limb.

March 3, 2025

MU Center for Agroforestry patents first black walnut cultivar, marking a milestone for Missouri’s tree nut industry

After a quarter of a century of development, the University of Missouri Center for Agroforestry made a significant step toward a long-term goal of furthering the black walnut industry in Missouri with a recent patent for its first black walnut cultivar — The UMCA® “Hickman” Walnut.

Feb. 12, 2025

Discovering a clue to what causes reproductive complications

By studying how female eggs repair — or sometimes fail to repair — DNA damage, CAFNR researchers hope to improve reproductive health.
A person stands with a tomato plant in a greenouse

Feb. 12, 2025

Boosting a plant’s protective forces

By discovering how plants defend themselves from pests, Mizzou researchers aim to help farmers grow resilient crops.
Soybean plants grow in a field

Feb. 10, 2025

CAFNR researchers develop new genetic defense against costly soybean pest

Soybean cyst nematodes (SCN) cost American farmers an estimated $2 billion in yield losses each year. Since the pest’s discovery in 1954, plant scientists have worked to combat its destructive impact. Now, researchers at the University of Missouri are on the verge of a breakthrough in SCN resistance technology.
Two people pose for a photo.

Feb. 4, 2025

A protein at the heart of heart disease

Mizzou researchers discover the structure of a protein that could lead to more targeted heart disease treatments.
Gurbir Singh

Feb. 4, 2025

Plant Sciences and Technology faculty member recognized for early career contributions by Universities Council on Water Resources

Gurbir Singh, assistant professor and state Extension specialist in soil science, agroecology and landscape management, was recently named as the recipient of the 2025 Early Career Award for Extension, Outreach and Engagement by the Universities Council on Water Resources (UCOWR). The UCOWR Early Career Award for Extension, Outreach, Engagement recognizes outstanding early contributions through extension, outreach and engagement activities related to water. Awardees have a significant record of accomplishment in these areas and show promise of continued professional growth and recognition. Singh will be recognized at an awards luncheon during the UCOWR annual conference in June.