Graduate Ag Research Spotlight: Mingyu Zhao

October 9, 2026

A student smiles inside a Purdue University building featuring international flags, ornate arched windows, and chandeliers overhead.

Graduate spotlight Mingyu Zhao in West Lafayette, Ind. on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026. (Purdue University photo/Joshua Clark)

Mingyu Zhao, a third-year Ph.D. candidate in ecological science and horticulture and landscape architecture, is this month’s Graduate Ag Research Spotlight.

Originally from Xuzhou, China, Zhao earned his master’s degree from the National University of Singapore before arriving at Purdue in 2024 to shift his focus from urban to agricultural landscapes.

His research examines the USDA’s Wetland Reserve Program and its effectiveness in protecting crop and built assets through flood mitigation across the Great Lakes region — with findings aimed at shaping future farm bill policy. He is advised by Aaron Thompson, associate professor of horticulture and landscape architecture.

It is the policy of the Purdue University that all persons have equal opportunity and access to its educational programs, services, activities, and facilities without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, disability or status as a veteran. Purdue is an Affirmative Action Institution. This material may be available in alternative formats.