Research and Innovation

Feed the world. Protect the planet.

Extraordinary challenges require extraordinary solutions. For 150 years, the daring innovations of our graduates have shaped the world we know today. Now, we carry on that daring spirit, using cutting-edge technology and scientific advances to envision a better tomorrow.

Focused on identifying and addressing future challenges, students and faculty of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources are mastering research in five areas of unique strength:

  • Climate change impacts, mitigation and adaptation;
  • Human dimensions of food, agriculture and natural resources;
  • Sustainable food systems, landscapes and ecosystems;
  • Genetics and genomics for plant, animal and ecosystem improvement; and
  • One Health intersections among animal, plant, human and ecosystem health.

Explore the exciting research we’re leading and the entrepreneurial ecosystem we’re building.

Robot captures imaging of root systems at UD Farm: youtube.com/watch?v=HKqOdS-i4BI

UD Research Initiatives

In an age of technology and innovation, the future has never looked more exciting.

Learn more

Upcoming events

Soil scientist Yan Jin awarded University’s highest faculty honor: youtube.com/watch?v=Rh__5gorAvo

Research News
  • Test before you taste

    May 17, 2023 | Written by Dante LaPenta
    UD plant science professors work with Delaware startup to create novel, rapid detection of foodborne pathogens.
  • Beyond the hybrid: Dietary factors in NDF digestibility

    May 08, 2023 | Written by Ken Griswold of Ag Proud
    The occurrence of wild spoilage yeasts in dairy rations received attention as researchers examined the causes of milkfat depression. The research group is led by Dr. Limin Kung Jr., cooperative extension at UD. They were able to show that even a moderate level can significantly reduce NDF digestion in the first 12 hours of exposure.
  • Expanding DENIN's reach

    April 22, 2023 | Written by Karen Roberts
    The Delaware Environmental Institute (DENIN) has selected three UD professors — Kent Messer, Nina David and Jon Cox — to be 2023-25 Faculty Fellows. During the two-year appointment, Cox, David and Messer will lead initiatives to expand environmental research, enhance public understanding of environmental issues and connect with community stakeholders.
  • Mapping migration

    March 23, 2023 | Written by Lauren Bradford
    Avian research often focuses on forests as breeding habitats, but scientists are now working to understand the vital role that small forest patches play in migration. For the first time, a team of researchers from Princeton University and the University of Delaware has created a comprehensive map of migratory pathways and stopover locations in the Eastern United States.

Faculty expert spotlights

Amy Biddle
Townsend Hall
302-831-2642

Professor Biddle investigates the equine microbiome, which is the root of maintaining equine health and longevity.
Rodrigo Vargas
Townsend Hall
302-831-1386

Professor Vargas studies soil-plant-atmosphere interactions to understand the response of terrestrial ecosystems to management, extreme events, and global change

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