The University of Delaware’s Qingwu (William) Meng won second place in the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) early career competition. Meng’s research and teaching focus on the production of high-value specialty crops, including edible crops and flowers, in highly controlled environmental systems like greenhouses and indoor farming spaces. He says controlled-environment horticulture is a sustainable solution to feeding the world while protecting the planet. Meng’s new class, “Growing Plants in Space,” capitalizes on student interest in space exploration to teach plant science. Nicole Donofrio, professor of plant pathology, says Meng cares deeply about increasing the efficiency of hydroponically grown plants.

University of Delaware Assistant Professor of Farm Management and Agricultural Economics Kofi Britwum is quoted in a Deseret News story about a proposed federal ban on food and grocery price gouging.

Jack Levy-Diedrich, a Ph.D. student in plant and soil sciences, researches the future of urban forests, which are threatened by invasive species and climate change. His work, under the guidance of faculty member Tara Trammell, focuses on cataloging plant communities and studying seed banks in forests across five states. By analyzing soil samples and vegetation, Levy-Diedrich can predict the impact of forest disturbances and how invasive species may take over. This research aims to influence urban forest management, helping environmental entities protect biodiversity and mitigate future threats.