Each year, the College of Agricultural Sciences at Colorado State University hosts a research showcase. The breadth of research topics span across various disciplines, showing the research being conducted in the College of Agricultural Sciences. This year nearly 50 students and post-docs participated to present research and engage with peers and faculty members alike. Four participants were from the AgNext team including graduate students and research scholars who work directly on AgNext research projects.
Maya Swenson, a master’s student at AgNext, shared a poster of her research conducted under the advisement of Dr. Sara Place. Her research studied growth implants and their ability to reduce methane emissions in finishing beef cattle. Swenson explained how the research showcase was an excellent opportunity for her to present her research while she prepares to defend. “I’m excited to present some of my data and receive feedback as I prepare to defend my master’s thesis next Spring and graduate in Spring 2025,“ Swenson said.
Irene Reis presented her Ph.D. research. When asked about why she participated in the showcase, Reis remarked, “I’m thrilled to present today and share the findings of my Ph.D. project. This research is fascinating to me and it is exciting to the scientific nuances with a diverse audience.” Reis is a Research Scholar at AgNext originally from Brazil. She furthermore explained how this showcase was an excellent opportunity for her to practice presenting her research and honing her English skills.
Daniela Alvarado, a Research Scholar at AgNext who is planning on completing her degree in Animal Sciences at Colorado State University, presented a portion of her research from her master’s thesis work. Speaking about her participation, Daniela expressed, “I wanted to be part of this event to improve in my field, enhance my English skills, and gain confidence in presenting my work. It’s a valuable opportunity to practice in a supportive environment.”
Cesar Velasquez, a doctoral student at AgNext, presented a study conducted in California, emphasizing the importance of research in driving sustainability and efficiency in animal agriculture that focused specifically on efficiency in feedlot systems. His research studied feed additives and their impact on animal gain. When asked about his participation in the event, Cesar highlighted, “Sharing our research is crucial in contributing to environmental sustainability. For example with my research, by optimizing feedlot days and enhancing animal weight, we can benefit producers economically while also minimizing environmental impact and improving resource allocation.”
The showcase provided AgNext students and research scholars with a platform to present their research in a professional setting and required that each create a poster presentation and offer insights to their study and findings as people approached their poster. This type of hands-on professional development will offer our students the opportunity to practice the skills needed to share findings and details about the cutting-edge research being conducted by AgNext.
Ultimately, the showcase demonstrates the dedication and innovation driving the AgNext students and research scholars forward. Opportunities like these not only hone academic skills, but also foster a culture of continuous learning and growth.
Erica Giesenhagen, M.S.
Communication and Outreach Specialist