IANR program expands undergrad opportunities for science, ag study

July 28th, 2022

What is a key way to build a stronger U.S. scientific community for the future? By expanding learning opportunities to a broad range of interested students now.

That goal is the foundation for a well-rounded science education program in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources this summer.

The 10-week program, with the theme “Expanding Opportunities in Agricultural Sciences and Crop-to-Food Innovation,” has brought together Husker scientists and private-sector experts to provide a wide-ranging curriculum to select undergraduate students from Nebraska and across the country. The project’s recruitment included historically Black colleges and universities, including those created under the 1890 Second Morrill Act, to extend opportunities to underrepresented students in science- and agriculture-related careers.

“We’ve learned how to communicate science better and how to think more scientifically and about the scientific method,” said Nathlita Karnley, a biology major at Fayetteville State University, an HBCU in North Carolina. “You really learn about science and the impact of your project. You learn how it’s going to benefit society. It also can help you regarding framing your business, if you want a business.”

Each student is mentored by an IANR faculty member. Karnley’s mentor is microbiologist Jennifer Auchtung (NFHC member), assistant professor of food science and technology.

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Story by Geitner Simmons | IANR Media