Members of the UF/IFAS Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences (SWES) showcased their research more than 4600 miles away at the 2024 American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) Conference. Our students, faculty, and staff showcased their outstanding research and collaborations, sparking meaningful connections and inspiring future action.
For Cyrus Januarie, a SWES graduate student, the conference was a valuable opportunity to share his research and receive feedback. His presentation was “Optimization of Nitrogen Application for Efficient Bamboo Production in Florida.” He earned a 3rd place award in the M.S. Student category.
“I made useful connections to collaborate in the future on developing creative solutions as well as exploring further opportunities,” Januarie said. “I also gained valuable insights from professionals from various parts of the nation that can improve my research.”
Graduate student Duplicate Sambani gave an oral presentation on the physiological responses of Huanglongbing (HLB)-affected citrus trees to soil acidification. She said the conference provided valuable opportunities to connect with industry professionals and graduate students.
“As the outgoing student chair, I had the privilege to engage in leadership roles and coordinate student activities,” Sambani added. “Those honed my organizational and leadership skills.”
Monika Peddapuli, another SWES graduate student, received ASHS and IFAS travel grants to attend the conference. It allowed her to present research to horticultural scientists and get their feedback.
“I have some new ideas that I can incorporate into my research,” Peddapuli said. “I also came across advanced research going on in other horticultural crops.”
Kondwani Kamsikiri, presented a poster showcasing the effects of molybdenum fertilization on young HLB-affected citrus trees.
“The conference was a valuable experience, not only providing me the opportunity to share our work with the scientific community but also allowing me to explore the latest technologies and innovations in horticulture,” he said.
Graduate student Noor Basar called the conference an “unforgettable experience” for him, both professionally and personally.
“Presenting my findings at this forum was truly rewarding, helping me to build my confidence and engage in productive discussion with experts in my filed,” he explained. “I also explored the iconic beauty of Honolulu Island, which was an amazing experience that revitalized my spirit and fueled my personal rejuvenation.”
A James Davidson Travel Grant from the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences helped cover his expenses. The graduate students’ advisor, Dr. Davie Kadyampakeni, also helped make the trip possible for them.
“Effect of Reclaimed Water on Blueberry Seedling Growth and Root Morphology” was the title of graduate student Yasmeen Saleem’s oral presentation. She said networking with professionals was a highlight of the conference.
“These interactions opened up possibilities for future collaborations with institutions such as Clemson University, the University of Mississippi, and Cornell University,” Saleem added.
Dr. Alisheikh Atta, a SWES postdoctoral associate, shared his findings in irrigation best management practices (BMPs). His oral presentation was titled “The impact of irrigation management based on crop water requirement on tree growth and water relations in commercial citrus groves.” He also made connections with professionals in academia and industry.
“I attended the career paths panel discussion with senior professionals in research and development, government, and the industry,” Atta said. “They shared their lifetime experience in their careers, and the challenges and opportunities in exploring career paths.”
Prissy Fletcher, SWES lecturer, said attending the ASHS conference for the first time was an invaluable experience. She also serves as the president of the Florida State Horticultural Society. Fletcher hopes the SWES students found opportunities to go outside their research comfort zone
“Both of my presentations were based on project collaborations with faculty in the Horticultural Sciences Department,” she explained. “I hope that partnership inspires students to discover the many ways that we can work together – from water management in hydroponics to fertilizer studies – while supporting their variety trials.”
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