The Fall 2024 Student Research Symposium showcased more than 40 student researchers in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Students presented their research in a diversity of fields with an emphasis on how their research will contribute to a more sustainable future.

Anaise Higgins, a UD Class of 2023 graduate of the online master’s program in applied statistics, successfully transitioned into a data science career after completing her degree. The program's flexibility allowed her to work full time while gaining essential skills in areas such as machine learning and statistical methods, which she now uses as a data scientist with a top national insurance company.

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.