By Blake Jackson
The University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment has honored three faculty members and a team for their exceptional contributions to research and extension.
Associate Dean for Research Jamie Matthews highlighted the importance of their work in securing funding, generating scientific discoveries, and applying these findings to benefit the community.
Tiffany Messer received the Bobby Pass Excellence in Grantsmanship Award, recognizing her success in securing over $23 million in grants from federal agencies like the NSF and USDA.
Messer research focuses on innovative, cost-effective solutions for water quality improvement in Kentucky and beyond. Messer expressed her gratitude, acknowledging her research team and the college's support in this vital area.
Tomo Kawashima was honored with the Prestigious Original Research Paper Award for his 2023 publication in Nature Plants.
Kawashima research delves into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of plant reproduction, specifically endosperm development, which is crucial for seed size.
Kawashima's findings have significant implications for addressing global food security. Kawashima expressed his appreciation for the recognition from his colleagues, which motivates his continued research.
The Research and Extension Impact Award was presented to a Plant and Soil Sciences team comprising Brad Lee, John Grove, Jason Unrine, and Erin Haramoto.
Their program, "Blue Water Farms: Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring," integrates water quality, cropping systems, and soil fertility research.
This project, supported by over $8 million in external funding, collaborates with nine farms to measure nutrient and sediment runoff, providing valuable data for Kentucky farmers to make informed decisions regarding nutrient retention and erosion prevention, especially relevant in the face of changing climate patterns. Matthews emphasized the direct impact of their work on the well-being of Kentucky's citizens.
Photo Credit: university-of-kentucky
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