Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences

05/19/2026

A Penn State researcher is leading groundbreaking work to better understand how climate change impacts the “living skin” of arid ecosystems.

Estelle Couradeau, assistant professor of soils and environmental microbiology in the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences, has received a $1.6 million, five-year award through the U.S. National Science Foundation Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program.

Couradeau and her team will study how increasing temperature fluctuations affect biocrust microbiomes—thin communities of microorganisms that stabilize soil, cycle nutrients and support dryland ecosystems around the world.

Using innovative tools like SoilChips and global datasets, the research aims to better predict how these vital systems respond to climate stress and support future land restoration efforts.

The project also includes an educational component that will engage high school students in hands-on soil science research and create new resources to promote awareness of careers in soil science.

As drylands continue to expand globally, this work has important implications for soil health, food systems, ecosystem resilience and human health.

➡️

A Penn State soil scientist has received a $1.6 million, five-year grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation to fund her team’s study of how increasing temperature fluctuations impact the biocrust microbiome — the complex, thin-layer microbe community that stabilizes soil, fixes nitrogen a...

05/16/2026

Thirty Penn State students are spending time in Ireland as part of ANSC 499: Ireland’s Equine Industry. 🇮🇪

Since arriving Tuesday, students have been immersed in Ireland’s equine industry while also learning more about Irish culture and agriculture. Their experiences so far have included visiting a farm that raises Irish Draught horses, touring a high-end show jumping yard, interacting with young eventing horses, and observing an eventing riding lesson.

05/15/2026

The Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering recently celebrated its graduating seniors as they presented their capstone projects—the culmination of a two-course sequence focused on solving real-world engineering challenges through innovation and collaboration. ⭐

Projects included:
— Designing a stormwater diversion system to help prevent erosion in the Juniata Terrace community
— Developing a system to connect a 40-hp tractor engine to a dynamometer for educational engine performance testing
— Creating a more cost-effective and gentle method for biological cell separation using inclined plate settlers

“I’m very proud of the time and effort that went into each project and the way the students defended their designs during the presentation,” said Jeff Catchmark, professor of agricultural and biological engineering.

Congratulations to these students on an impressive achievement and best wishes as they take the next step in their engineering journeys! 👏

05/14/2026

From undergraduate research to national product launches, alumna Leah Doctor is making her mark in the food science industry as a Senior Research Scientist on the Reese’s R&D Team at The Hershey Company.

A 2023 graduate in Food Science with a minor in Nutritional Sciences, Leah’s Penn State experience combined hands-on research, music performance, mentorship, and community. Through the Schreyer Honors College, she conducted undergraduate research exploring dairy and almond protein stabilization systems under the mentorship of Dr. Federico Harte and Dr. Grace Voronin.

Today, Leah contributes to nationally recognized launches including Reese’s Oreo, Reese’s Sugar Cookie Cups, Reese’s Red Velvet Cups, and Hershey Grinch bars—products consumers can now find on store shelves nationwide.

Leah credits Penn State’s strong alumni network, undergraduate research opportunities, and supportive Ag Sciences community for helping shape both her professional and personal growth.

“One of the things that really distinguishes Penn State is its alumni community. Penn Staters genuinely look out for one another.”

Outside of her work in food science, Leah continues her passion for music as a member of the Hershey Symphony and several ensembles.

We’re proud to celebrate alumni like Leah who continue to innovate, lead, and inspire. 💙🤍

➡️ https://ow.ly/GKXr50YW9SI

The Hershey Company
Penn State
Schreyer Honors College

05/11/2026

Congratulations to our College of Ag Sciences graduates. Your hard work, dedication, and achievements are worth celebrating today and always.

We are so proud of you! 🎓💙🤍

05/08/2026

🎓 Congratulations to graduating senior Michael Vignone of Berlin, Connecticut!

Michael majored in Plant Sciences with the Horticulture option and minored in Agribusiness Management. This spring, he was selected as the College of Agricultural Sciences’ commencement marshal—an honor recognizing his outstanding academic achievements and leadership.

A Schreyer Honors College Scholar and student farm manager, Michael earned numerous honors and awards, including the Academic Excellence Scholarship, Evan Pugh Award, and Oswald Award. He also participated in undergraduate research exploring the viability of biochar as a sustainable additive to potting media in greenhouse annual production.

After graduation, Michael will continue his internship in perennial product development with Ball Horticultural in West Chicago, Illinois.

Congratulations, Michael! We’re excited to see all you accomplish in the horticulture industry. 🌱

Schreyer Honors College
Penn State

05/08/2026

Thank you to the College of Agricultural Sciences Agricultural Trustees who gathered yesterday for a meaningful afternoon of discussion and connection! 👏

The program featured remarks from University and college leadership, including Board Chair David Kleppinger; Penn State President Neeli Bendapudi; Troy Ott, Peter and Ann Tombros Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences; and Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding.

We appreciate the Agricultural Trustees’ continued leadership, insight and commitment to advancing the mission of Penn State and agriculture.

Penn State
Secretary Russell Redding

05/07/2026

Did you know Penn State has an Animal Science Graduate Research Collaborative? 🐾

The Animal Science Graduate Research Collaborative is a professional organization for Master’s and PhD students specializing in the study of animal biology and livestock systems.

Their club has two main goals:

— Fostering community through monthly social and professional development activities for graduate students.

— Building bridges to undergraduate students and organizations to share information about research and graduate school.

PSU Animal Science Graduate Research Collaborative

05/05/2026

We’re proud to celebrate four outstanding alumni honored by the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences during the 2026 Outstanding Alumni Awards ceremony last month!

These individuals have made incredible contributions to their fields, their communities, and the future of agriculture—from groundbreaking research to public service and industry leadership.

Each honoree was also inducted into the Armsby Honor Society, recognizing their lasting connection and commitment to the college.

Their work continues to inspire the next generation of ag sciences leaders. 🌱

➡️ https://ow.ly/QufR50YUAfv

05/04/2026

Finals week is here—wishing all students the very best of luck! 📚✨

05/04/2026

We were honored to host a delegation from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) at University Park on Friday, marking the one-year milestone of the Penn State–FAO Youth Food Lab partnership.

The visit featured FAO Deputy Director-General Beth Bechdol and brought together students, faculty, and global leaders to highlight Penn State’s strengths in research, innovation, and workforce development. Throughout the day, participants engaged in discussions on advancing global collaboration, empowering youth and women in food systems, and translating research into real-world impact.

From student-led reflections on the Youth Food Lab’s first year to tours of cutting-edge facilities and conversations on smart farming and industry partnerships, the visit underscored Penn State’s commitment to shaping the future of global agriculture.

We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to strengthen our partnership with FAO to address critical food system challenges worldwide.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
Penn State Extension