By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University (SDSU) is helping students gain valuable research experience through its College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences Undergraduate Research Program. This year, 18 undergraduate students received research grants that allow them to study topics they choose while working closely with faculty mentors.
The program gives students opportunities to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges in agriculture, natural resources, engineering, animal science, and environmental studies. Research projects take place in laboratories, livestock facilities, and research stations across South Dakota.
“As a college, we are committed to providing undergraduate students the opportunity to expand their knowledge and skills through research,” said Jim Connors, associate dean and director of academic programs. “This program provides transformative education and high-impact opportunities, fulfilling SDSU’s promise to students.”
Students prepare proposals with faculty mentors during the spring and begin their projects during the summer or fall semester. Their work is later presented during SDSU’s annual Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity Day.
The Undergraduate Research Program was revitalized in 2024. Since then, more than $100,000 has been awarded through the Gary and Theresa Lemme Undergraduate Research Award, the Orville and Enolia Bentley Undergraduate Research Award, and the DeHaan Endowed Program.
“Students who get involved with research as undergraduates have the opportunity to apply their skills outside of the classroom and grow their critical thinking ability,” said John Blanton, associate dean of research for the college and director of the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station. “The opportunity also helps students clarify career goals, strengthen graduate school applications and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and innovation.”
The 2026 award recipients are Kaden Ball, Sachina BK, John Boerboom, Madelyn Caulfield, Nora Erickson, Ava Graham, Adam Hosszu, Angela Kovacs, Brogan Mull, Jonathon Peterson, Julia Rain, Kyra Rimstidt, Amara Roland, Bhupendra Sen Thakuri, Jackson Strong, Csenge Tarjányi, Tyler Townsend, and Isabella Tronnes.
Their research topics include crop production, livestock management, bison studies, dairy technology, soil health, wheat disease resistance, fisheries science, wildlife monitoring, bat expansion, fertilizer management, and sustainable agriculture practices.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Education