Home Department:
Agronomy

Mentor / Lab:
Dr. James Camberato

Specific Research Area / Project:
Residual effects of inorganic nitrogen fertilization on soil nitrogen pools and corn growth

Undergraduate Institution:
The Ohio State University
B.S. Environmental Science ‘14

Research Profile:

My master’s work focused on quantifying residual soil nitrogen in the common corn-soybean rotation of the Midwest. The nitrogen cycle is comprised of many nitrogen pools that work through the atmosphere, soil, and plant to maintain a balanced organization. When the organization is interrupted, for instance by crop production, the cycle becomes imbalanced and producers are left to fill the gaps with nitrogen inputs. Corn-soybean rotations are frequent in the Midwest; thus, applying N at a rate which will achieve maximum profit is crucial. Increasing our understanding of soil N under the primary cropping system of the Midwest will inform producers if they should adjust fertilizer rates for N carryover.

About Me:

“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”-Ralph Waldo Emerson. As a young scientist, my work embraces this statement to make new discoveries for both the environment and the agriculture industry. Since I was born and raised on a farm, I grew up believing that my “path” would lead me to continue the farming tradition. However, a soil science research position at Ohio State shifted my career goals in a new direction. I soon discovered the exciting field of research, a constantly changing and challenging field, but one that would quickly become my passion.

Following graduation from Ohio State, I realized I wanted more and felt that I had a lot to offer to research, the environment, and to agriculture. I soon came across and was admitted to Purdue’s Ecological Science and Engineering Interdisciplinary Graduate Program (ESE-IGP). I felt that my background in agriculture and my degree from Ohio State in Environmental Science would bring ESE an insightful and balanced viewpoint of environmental issues.

Thus far, my time in graduate school has taught me a range of skills; I value the importance of communication, attention to detail in the lab and field, patience when teaching, and most of all, the connections and people I have met along the way. Upon completion of my thesis in December 2016, I will set out on a new path. I aspire to leave new trails towards soil conservation and management. I thank everyone who has impacted my path so far and am excited to see what the future holds.

Life After ESE:

Shortly after graduation I began working for USDA-NRCS as a Soil Conservationist in Lake Charles, Louisiana (Cajun Country!). I have the privilege of working with farmers on a daily basis to help them implement conservation on their land. I am lucky to work in parishes that support cropland, forestry, and livestock land uses. Currently, I am serving as the Acting District Conservationist in North Louisiana and absolutely love my job. My Dad always told me to “find a job you love and you never have to work a day in your life.” I think I’ve done just that.

ESE opened up my “box-like” thinking. I enjoy having the ability to think about issues from different stakeholder’s POV. Additionally, ESE gave me the gift of contacts for a lifetime! Thanks to ESE, I gained personal and professional relationships that will last throughout my career.

Presentations:

• Moser, M., Nielsen, R., and Camberato, J. Long-term effect of nitrogen fertilization on soil nitrogen pools and crop growth. Poster presentation at Purdue’s Corn Showcase, West Lafayette, IN, July 26, 2016.

Leadership:

• Committee Member: Pioneer Plant Breeding Symposium, Purdue University, 2016
• Committee Member: Ecological Sciences & Engineering Annual Symposium, Purdue University, 2015
• Representative: Agronomy Graduate Student Representative, Purdue University, 2015
• Mentor: ESE Graduate Student Mentor, Purdue University, 2015
• Participant: Pelotonia, Ohio State, 2013, 2014, 2015
• Fellow: NSF Fellow, Georgia Tech, 2013
• Team Member: Hunt Seat Equestrian Team, Ohio State, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014