By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University is hosting the 2026 NDSU Soybean Symposium on March 5 at the Memorial Union in Fargo, North Dakota. The event brings together researchers, Extension professionals, students, and industry partners to support progress in soybean science management and innovation.
The symposium serves as a platform for sharing new research and discussing real-world soybean production challenges. It focuses on building strong connections between research and farm practices that support soybean growers across the Midwest. The event is supported by the North Dakota Soybean Council along with industry partners.
The program features oral and poster presentations across three main focus areas. These include agronomy plant pathology and new uses of research. Graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and research staff are encouraged to submit abstracts to present their work. Participants can also compete for cash prizes. The abstract submission deadline is February 5.
“This symposium is an important venue for connecting research with real-world soybean production challenges,” says Ana Carcedo, NDSU Extension broadleaf crops agronomist and symposium organizer. “It provides an opportunity to share new findings, foster collaboration across disciplines and support student professional development.”
The 2026 event includes keynote presentations from leading soybean experts. Speakers include Shawn Conley from the University of Wisconsin Madison Dylan Mangel from the University of Nebraska Lincoln and Ignacio Ciampitti from Purdue University. These speakers will share insights on how advanced soybean research can be applied in practical field settings.
Beyond research presentations, the symposium also offers strong networking opportunities. Attendees can connect with researchers, Extension educators, farmers, and industry leaders. These conversations help strengthen partnerships and encourage collaboration across states and disciplines.
Student involvement is a key part of the symposium. The event supports student learning professional growth and exposure to industry leaders. Competitions and presentations help students build confidence and communication skills.
The NDSU Soybean Symposium continues to be an important educational event for anyone interested in soybean research and production. More details including abstract guidelines and deadlines are available online at ndsu.ag/soybeansymp26.
Photo Credit: north-dakota-state-university
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Soybeans