Research

Black walnuts on a tree limb.

March 4, 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. 13, 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. 13, 2025

Boosting a plant’s protective forces

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

Meat Science Lab Rendering.

Feb. 12, 2025

University of Missouri Board of Curators honors former Gov. Mike Parson with naming of new meat sciences lab

The facility will offer additional education and workforce development opportunities to contribute to one of Missouri’s largest industries.

Soybean plants grow in a field

Feb. 11, 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.

Hoa Hoang

Feb. 5, 2025

Mizzou expert predicts Super Bowl menu price hikes, but savvy shoppers can score deals

Mizzou researcher Hoa Hoang offers expert tips for creating the perfect game day spread on a budget.

Two people pose for a photo.

Feb. 5, 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. 5, 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). Gurbir Singh 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.

fabric in a yellow dye bath

Jan. 31, 2025

CAFNR plant scientist’s curiosity sparks global collaboration for sustainable fashion

Jaime Barros-Rios joins forces with marine biologist, fashion innovator to develop plant-based textile dyes, aiming to improve sustainability, working conditions worldwide.

Nine people line up and post with an award in an office.

Jan. 23, 2025

Foremost Dairy staff honored with Driver to Distinction award

CAFNR Vice Chancellor and Dean Christopher Daubert honored the Foremost Dairy farm staff with the Driver to Distinction award. Daubert acknowledged the significant advancements occurring at the dairy and expressed gratitude to the staff for their commitment and effort in furthering the land-grant mission as implemented through Foremost Dairy.