The Institute for Agricultural and Conservation Research and Education (ACRE) sent out a call for proposals for faculty research grants in August. These grants were open to all faculty from any college or department on campus, with research relevant to agriculture and conservation science and education. The goals of these grants are to (1) extend and expand research capacity for faculty and trainees, (2) develop preliminary data for future projects, (3) enhance student training and broaden participation, (4) support scientists at undergraduate and graduate levels, and (5) establish new collaborations and partnerships.

As a result of the call, ACRE awarded five projects with a grant. The winning projects are:

Dr. Leigh Boardman (Biological Sciences): Spotted lanternfly cold tolerance in Tennessee

In collaboration with researchers at Canadian Forest Service and the TN state entomologist, the proposed project will investigate cold tolerance in Spotted lanternfly (SLF) by measuring the temperatures at which eggs freeze, which is used to predict mortality in this species. This will be done in SLF populations at different latitudes in North America in the newly invaded range, including in Tennessee, at various timepoints throughout winter. We will also identity the cryoprotective molecules present in SLF eggs. The project will train undergraduate students who will gain valuable applied agriculture and conservation research experience.

Dr. Janey Camp and Dr. Jenn Pickering (CAESAR): Feasibility Study of Alternate Crops for Improved Production, Sustainability and Economic Benefits

This project will conduct a feasibility study of up to 10 crops (both commodity and specialty) across the Southeast U.S., using the geographic domain of the Southeast Region as defined in the Fifth National Climate Assessment. The study will look at crop growing conditions for optimized production coupled with anticipated climatic impacts for the region. This information will be valuable for planning, conservation efforts, and economic development activities, helping stakeholders make informed decisions in response to changing climates.

Dr. Xiaolei Huang (Computer Science): Promoting Smart Agriculture for Soybean by Enhancing Farmer-Robot Collaboration via Large Language Models

This project aims to leverage large language models (LLMs) to enhance the functionality and usability of robotic devices in soybean agriculture. The project aims to develop new multimodal LLMs and promote robotic automations via the LLMs. This project can bring new advances in algorithmic innovations and applications in interdisciplinary communities.

Collaborators: Lifeng Zhou, Drexel University, Xin Zhang, Mississippi State University

Dr. Jessica Amber Jennings (Biomedical Engineering): Tethered-Omega Microgels (TOMs) for Prevention of Lameness in Swine

This project addresses biomedical and agricultural practices by introducing innovative, sustainable treatments that serve as a platform technology for treatment of wounds in swine and other animals. This project will also support and enable graduate and undergraduate students in biomedical engineering and related fields to become involved in agricultural and conservation research, and present findings at conferences.

Dr. Philip Kohlmeier (Biological Sciences): Impact of Patterns of Urban Development on Biodiversity

This project will investigate how patterns of urban development influence biodiversity. Urban development impacts various parameters, such as vegetation cover, surface temperature, and pollution, which are not only relevant to human health but also to ecosystem functioning. Using flies and ants as model systems, this research will compare well-developed and less-developed urban districts to explore how urbanization affects individual traits—such as behavior and physiology—as well as biodiversity in insects. Through a citizen science approach, local students and community members will participate in data collection and analysis, gaining hands-on experience in ecological research and data skills. By connecting individual traits in flies and ants to broader biodiversity patterns, this project will provide insights essential for urban conservation, supporting strategies for sustainable urban growth. Dr. Kohlmeier’s work will contribute to a deeper understanding of urbanization’s impact on natural systems, offering valuable guidance for cities beyond Memphis.

These proposals will help to build wider momentum for the University as a leader in agriculture and conservation. For more information on these projects and/or the CFP, contact acre@memphis.edu.