Skip to main content
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences 
Department of Crop and Soil Sciences

Research

Global crop and soil science innovation starts here.

A Complete Innovation Ecosystem

We conduct cutting-edge research to improve food security and enhance agricultural systems. We discover new approaches to protect soil and water resources from degradation associated with agricultural and urban land uses.

Our research is conducted in well-equipped labs, greenhouses, and the NC State Phytotron for controlled environmental work. And we have access to an excellent field station system with a variety of environments and soils ranging from the mountains to the Piedmont, to the coastal plains and blacklands of Eastern North Carolina.

Our collaborative crop and soil studies are addressing some of the most pressing issues our world faces today.

Feeding a Growing Population

Our crop production research identifies the most effective and cost-efficient resources while maximizing production and environmental protection.

Addressing Climate Change

We measure greenhouse gas emissions and develop high-tech solutions — including assessment of the role of organic farming — to reduce them.

Protecting Our Water and Environment

We develop management strategies that protect soil and water resources from degradation associated with agricultural and urban land uses.

When the world needs innovation in crop and soil sciences, they work with us.

Research Programs

Our esearch programs range from water and air quality to agricultural production and management. They include forage and grassland management and integrated pest management. We are also working with budding scientists participating in 4-H and otehr Extension programs across the state.

Learn more 
Farmer in field checking soil

Research for Commodities

Our crop commodities research incorporates the use of molecular, cellular, and quantitative genetic techniques in focus areas that include plant improvement, systems agriculture, weed management and modeling, just to name a few. We work closely with our stakeholders to provide research that yields results.

Learn more 

Feeding the Future, One Mind at a Time

In 2005, the Agroecology Education Farm started with a vision from Drs. Michelle Schroeder-Moreno, David Orr, and Mike Linker to create a space for students and community to learn about sustainable agriculture. The farm is at Lake Wheeler Field Station near the Historic Yates Mill Park.

The farm began producing for NC State University Dining in 2013, bringing food and agroecology education into the dining halls. Following its land-grant mission, the Agroecology Education Farm provides hands-on education in sustainable agriculture and a place where students and community can learn from each other.

Learn more
NC State students enjoying fresh vegetables grown on campus

Latest Research News

More Research News
irrigation equipment on a trailer

Industry Partnership Aims to Tackle Hog Farm Wastewater

CALS researchers have partnered with an international irrigation company to help develop a more environmentally friendly solution for managing wastewater from hog farms. 
Steph Kulesza takes soil samples

After the Storm: Soil Strike Team Helps Farmers Assess Land

A team of soil scientists from the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences recently visited western North Carolina to support local Extension agents in evaluating shifting landscapes and soil impacts due to Hurricane Helene. 
a woman and a man stand in a field of green crops

New NC State Web Tool Delivers Precise Soybean Planting Recommendations

BeanPACK, a new soybean growers decision support tool designed to revolutionize on-farm recommendations, will be released Oct. 1, in time to inform statewide planting decisions for the 2025 growing season.…