[{"id":34820,"date":"2026-05-06T18:34:13","date_gmt":"2026-05-06T23:34:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/?p=34820"},"modified":"2026-05-07T00:54:14","modified_gmt":"2026-05-07T05:54:14","slug":"ri-month-celebrating-excellence-in-research-and-innovation-at-pvamu-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/post\/ri-month-celebrating-excellence-in-research-and-innovation-at-pvamu-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Where Legacy Meets Impact: Research & Innovation Month Reflects PVAMU\u2019s Research Transformation"},"content":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW<\/strong>, Texas (May 6, 2026) \u2014 Across a month of student discovery, faculty scholarship, responsible research practice, commercialization and industry engagement, Prairie View A&M University\u2019s 2026 Research & Innovation Month brought the university\u2019s growing research enterprise into full view.<\/p>\n

Held under the theme \u201cWhere Legacy Meets Impact,\u201d the month was far more than a series of events. It was a reflection of a university community rising together around discovery, responsibility, partnership and purpose.<\/p>\n

Students stood beside their work and stepped into the visible practice of discovery. Faculty shared scholarship across disciplines and opened new possibilities for collaboration. Compliance leaders strengthened understanding around responsible research practice. Industry partners explored pathways for research to move beyond campus. Innovators learned how ideas can be protected, licensed and advanced toward real-world application. At the close of the month, the university paused to honor the faculty, students, staff and partners helping move PVAMU\u2019s research enterprise forward.<\/p>\n

Together, those moments told a larger story: research excellence is not built in isolation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

It is built when student talent is seen and supported. It is built when faculty work is connected across departments and colleges. It is built when research growth is strengthened by infrastructure, compliance, partnerships and recognition. It is built when a university community believes in what it is capable of becoming and does the steady work required to get there.<\/p>\n

\n

\u201c<\/strong>Research & Innovation Month is more than a celebration. It is a reflection of the research enterprise we are building together\u201d<\/strong> said Dr. Magesh T. Rajan<\/strong>, vice president for Research & Innovation. \u201c<\/strong>In FY25, PVAMU reached $52 million in research expenditures, submitted more than $210 million in proposals and exceeded one of the two Carnegie R1 research activity benchmarks. But the deeper story is what those numbers represent: students stepping into discovery, faculty advancing meaningful scholarship, partners extending our reach and a university becoming more confident in its research future. Our progress is measurable, but it is also deeply human. Now we carry it forward with discipline, purpose and a clear commitment to Rise to R1.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

The month came during a period of significant momentum for PVAMU. In FY2025, the university reported $52 million in research expenditures, more than $210 million in proposals submitted, more than $85 million in sponsored awards and 464 proposals submitted. Research expenditures increased 148% over a six-year span, rising from $21 million in FY2020 to $52 million in FY2025. From FY2024 to FY2025 alone, expenditures increased 53%.<\/p>\n

These milestones are not simply numbers. They represent students learning to see themselves as researchers, faculty pushing scholarship forward, partners choosing to engage and a university strengthening the conditions for long-term impact.<\/p>\n

Student discovery takes center stage<\/span><\/b><\/h1>\n

Research & Innovation Month began with Student Research Day, one of the clearest examples of how research growth connects to student success.<\/span><\/p>\n

More than 180 students participated through poster and oral presentations, sharing scholarly, creative and research work across disciplines. The program included student leader remarks, a keynote by Annabelle G. Aymond, associate program director for the Office of Undergraduate Research at Texas A&M University, graduate student oral presentations, undergraduate poster presentations and afternoon showcase sessions.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Students

Students shared their research, answered questions and connected with attendees during Student Research Day, highlighting the next generation of scholars helping advance PVAMU\u2019s growing research enterprise.<\/p><\/div>\n

For students, the day offered more than a presentation slot. It offered a professional platform.<\/p>\n

Throughout the day, undergraduate and graduate students stood beside their work, explained their methods, answered questions and stepped into the visible practice of discovery. In doing so, they practiced the habits that shape researchers: curiosity, discipline, communication, evidence and the courage to contribute something meaningful to a larger conversation.<\/p>\n

President Tomikia P. LeGrande<\/strong> attended in support of PVAMU\u2019s student researchers, underscoring the university\u2019s commitment to student research as a central part of its broader growth strategy.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

President Tomikia P. LeGrande interact with several students who participated in Student Research Day through poster and oral presentations, showcasing scholarly, creative and research work across disciplines.<\/p><\/div>\n

At Prairie View, student research is not peripheral to the mission. It is one of the ways talent becomes visible. It is one of the ways students begin to understand that their voices belong in serious academic and professional spaces. That connection matters as PVAMU continues strengthening research opportunities at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.<\/p>\n

In FY2025, R&I supported more than 100 undergraduate research student projects and more than 50 graduate research students through the RISE program. The Doctoral Assistantship Program also opened applications in spring 2025, with 26 doctoral students funded beginning in fall 2025.<\/p>\n

Student Research Day made that investment tangible. It showed students participating in the work of the university itself, building confidence as scholars and helping carry PVAMU\u2019s research culture forward.<\/p>\n

Compliance as a foundation for responsible growth<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h1>\n

As PVAMU\u2019s research footprint expands, Research & Innovation Month also emphasized the systems that help research grow responsibly.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

TAMUS Export Control Training Part 2: International Research Compliance gave faculty, staff and students practical guidance on international travel best practices, new-hire screening requirements, publication\u00a0restrictions\u00a0and foreign person restrictions in contracts.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The session featured Lauren Schroeder<\/strong>, executive director of the System Export Control Office, and Brian Ridenour<\/strong> of The Texas A&M University System, alongside Marco L. Robinson<\/strong>, director of research regulatory compliance at PVAMU.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Research

Research & Innovation Month highlighted responsible research growth through TAMUS export control training on international research compliance, travel best practices and contract restrictions.<\/p><\/div>\n

The training reinforced an essential point for a growing research enterprise: global engagement requires ambition and care. As faculty and students work across borders, build international\u00a0collaborations\u00a0and pursue increasingly complex research activity, compliance is not a barrier to progress. It is part of how progress is protected.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

That message carried through the month again during \u201cMaintaining Research Integrity: QRPs and AI in Research,\u201d which welcomed 43 participants online and in person.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The session featured Dr. Stacy Pritt<\/strong>, associate vice chancellor and chief research compliance officer for The Texas A&M University System. Her presentation addressed ethical risks in AI, questionable research practices and the shared responsibility researchers have to protect the integrity of the research process.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As AI becomes more embedded in research, the session offered\u00a0a timely\u00a0reminder that trust is part of research infrastructure. Strong institutions are not only measured by what they produce. They are also measured by how carefully,\u00a0ethically\u00a0and transparently that work is done.<\/span> That is what Prairie View is committed to doing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Faculty Scholarship Builds Collaboration<\/strong><\/h1>\n

Faculty Research Day centered on scholarship,\u00a0visibility\u00a0and connection across PVAMU\u2019s research community.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The day featured a keynote by Dr. Sharmila\u00a0Pathikonda<\/strong>, associate vice chancellor for research for The Texas A&M University System, followed by faculty research poster presentations and an afternoon Research Exchange designed to connect faculty across disciplines.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The structure of the day mattered. It was not built as a passive showcase. It was designed to help excellent work become seen,\u00a0understood\u00a0and connected.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Faculty across engineering, business, health, humanities, education,\u00a0agriculture\u00a0and other areas shared research that reflected the range of scholarly\u00a0activity\u00a0taking place across campus. The day gave faculty a platform to present their work with confidence while also inviting colleagues to look beyond familiar academic boundaries.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Faculty

Faculty Research Day highlighted scholarly work across PVAMU, creating space for researchers to share findings, exchange ideas and strengthen connections across disciplines.<\/p><\/div>\n

One of the most meaningful moments\u00a0emerged\u00a0during the poster session, when Dr.\u00a0Pathikonda\u00a0engaged directly with faculty presenters and invited them to describe the significance of their work clearly and succinctly. The impromptu exchange gave faculty a valuable opportunity to practice communicating the value of their research to an external research leader.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

That skill matters. The ability to explain research clearly to different audiences supports funding competitiveness, partnership\u00a0development\u00a0and broader impact.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Research Exchange also created space for new interdisciplinary conversations. A Biology Department faculty member connected with a chemical engineer around a potential collaborative research effort. A faculty member from the School of Public and Allied Health connected with a colleague from another discipline to explore future research possibilities.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

These were practical outcomes from intentional programming. They showed how visibility can become\u00a0connection\u00a0and how connection can become\u00a0future\u00a0collaboration.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Faculty<\/a>

Faculty members attend Faculty Research Day, engaging with presentations and discussions that highlight research activity across Prairie View A&M University.<\/p><\/div>\n

Faculty Research Day also reflected PVAMU\u2019s larger investment in the conditions that help faculty research grow. The inaugural Faculty Research Development Program brought together faculty across multiple colleges with structured support around proposal strategy, peer\u00a0review\u00a0and funding navigation.\u00a0In FY25, the university supported more than 60 faculty through proposal development.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The takeaway was clear: faculty excellence is already present at Prairie View. The work ahead is to strengthen the systems,\u00a0resources\u00a0and collaborations that allow that excellence to scale.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Partnerships That Move Discovery Into Impact<\/strong><\/span><\/h1>\n

On April 13, the Strategic Partnerships and Innovation Forum shifted the month\u2019s focus outward, asking what it takes to move research beyond the campus in ways that are mutually beneficial, durable and\u00a0mission-aligned.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The\u00a0forum\u2019s\u00a0theme, \u201cFrom Discovery to Partnership: Accelerating Research Impact,\u201d reflected a central priority for PVAMU Research & Innovation. Discovery is essential, but discovery reaches farther when it is connected to communities,\u00a0industry\u00a0and real-world needs.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More than 50 participants joined the forum for tactical conversations around sponsored research, commercialization, startup development, economic\u00a0development\u00a0and external collaboration. Representatives from more than 15 segments of industry\u00a0participated, including energy, venture and startup innovation, engineering and design, national laboratory research, economic development,\u00a0commercialization\u00a0and market intelligence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"The

The Strategic Partnerships and Innovation Forum brought faculty, institutional representatives and external partners together to explore sponsored research, commercialization, economic development and real-world impact.<\/p><\/div>\n

Organizations represented\u00a0included\u00a0Shell, ExxonMobil, Plug and Play Tech Center, Sandia National Laboratories, Waller County Economic Development Partnership, the City of Waller, Texas Medical Center, TEX-E and Stantec.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The forum was keynoted by\u00a0Debnil\u00a0Chowdhury<\/strong>, vice president, S&P Global, Americas head of refining and marketing, who spoke on the partnership imperative and the need to move research beyond the campus.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The program also included a \u201cFrom Lab to Launch\u201d panel featuring Dr.\u00a0Verrick\u00a0Walker<\/strong> of Stantec, Vince Yokum<\/strong> of Waller County Economic Development Partnership and Mark Martin<\/strong> of Sandia National Laboratories. The discussion reinforced that universities and external partners must work together with greater intentionality to address shared priorities and translate ideas into impact.<\/span><\/p>\n

What made the forum especially practical was its structure. Participants moved through themed partnership zones focused on corporate and industry sponsored research, foundation and philanthropic partnerships, commercialization and startups and community and economic development.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"tactical

Tactical conversation around moving research beyond the campus and into mutually beneficial partnerships, real-world application and measurable impact<\/p><\/div>\n

The rotations were designed to help faculty, PVAMU representatives and external partners identify needs, strengths and potential next steps. The format encouraged direct conversation rather than general networking.<\/p>\n

For PVAMU, the forum reflected a larger shift: partnerships are not supplemental to institutional growth. They are part of how growth happens. Strong partnerships expand research capacity, create student opportunity, support commercialization, strengthen workforce development and connect university knowledge to public value.<\/p>\n

That direction also aligns with PVAMU\u2019s recent APLU Innovation & Economic Prosperity designation, which signals sustained institutional commitment to partnership, innovation and economic engagement.<\/p>\n

Innovation pathways support real-world impact<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h1>\n

Research & Innovation Month also extended into commercialization and intellectual property development through an April 29 seminar hosted by PVAMU\u2019s Office of Innovation, Commercialization, Entrepreneurship and Economic Development.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The session focused on commercialization and intellectual property licensing, equipping faculty,\u00a0staff\u00a0and students with a clearer understanding of how research can be translated into real-world\u00a0application\u00a0within The Texas A&M University System.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Participants explored key concepts in protecting intellectual property, navigating the licensing\u00a0process\u00a0and using university resources to move innovations from discovery toward\u00a0market. Janie Hurley<\/strong>, senior director of licensing for TAMU Innovation, served as a featured speaker.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The event directly supported PVAMU\u2019s broader innovation priorities by strengthening awareness of commercialization pathways, industry\u00a0partnerships\u00a0and funding opportunities. It also reinforced a larger message: research impact does not end at discovery. It grows through the systems,\u00a0partnerships\u00a0and protections that help ideas move forward.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

That work is already part of PVAMU\u2019s research growth story. In FY25, the university reported 20 invention disclosures, four provisional patent applications, two utility\u00a0applications\u00a0and one licensing option agreement executed.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Commercialization is not separate from research culture. It is one of the ways\u00a0research\u00a0becomes useful beyond the university and one of the ways faculty, staff and students can see their ideas move toward public benefit.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Honoring the Work Behind the Rise<\/strong><\/h1>\n

Research & Innovation Month gave PVAMU a moment to pause and recognize the people whose work is helping move the university\u2019s research enterprise forward.<\/p>\n

The R&I Reflections & Recognition Reception brought together faculty, staff, students, university leaders and partners for a program that honored Top Researcher awardees, principal investigators with top research expenditures, Student Research Day winners and graduating RISE students. Approximately 250 individuals attended the reception in person, reflecting the growing sense of shared ownership around PVAMU\u2019s research progress.<\/p>\n

The reception featured Dr. Rajan\u2019s State of Research address, a defining moment that placed PVAMU\u2019s recent growth in context and connected the university\u2019s progress to the people, programs and systems helping move the research enterprise forward. The address showed that research expenditures, sponsored awards, proposal activity, student research, faculty development, innovation and partnership engagement are not separate measures of progress. Together, they reflect a university building research capacity with discipline, purpose and belief in what Prairie View can become.<\/p>\n

President LeGrande also offered powerful remarks recognizing the extraordinary work happening across PVAMU, both inside and beyond the lab. She encouraged faculty to continue advancing knowledge, solving real-world problems and strengthening the kind of research activity that positions Prairie View A&M University as an institution the nation should be watching.<\/p>\n

Watch highlights from the R&I Reflections & Recognition Reception.<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

The R&I Reflections & Recognition Reception brought the university community together to reflect on a year of research growth, recognize excellence and look toward the next phase of PVAMU\u2019s research progress<\/p><\/div>\n

The reception was not simply about awards. It was about honoring the work behind the momentum. That work is happening in labs and classrooms, through proposals and partnerships, across administrative teams and in the mentorship that helps students see themselves as researchers.<\/p>\n

Notably, the inaugural Millionaire\u2019s Club recognized principal investigators who surpassed $1 million in research expenditures, including Dr. Lijun Qian<\/strong>, Electrical Engineering; Dr. Judy Perkins<\/strong>, Civil Engineering; Dr. Ram Ray<\/strong>, Agriculture; Dr. Raghava Kommalapati<\/strong>, Civil Engineering; and Dr. Ayodeji Iyanda<\/strong>, Division of Social Sciences.<\/p>\n

\"Caption:

Caption: The 2026 Millionaire\u2019s Club honored PVAMU principal investigators who surpassed $1 million in research expenditures, recognizing the faculty leadership behind the university\u2019s growing research enterprise.<\/p><\/div>\n

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The celebration captured one of the month\u2019s most important truths: progress at this level is never carried by one office or one moment. It is built through students stepping into discovery, faculty pursuing meaningful scholarship, staff strengthening the systems that support research and partners helping extend Prairie View\u2019s reach.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n

Building the Future of PVAMU Research<\/strong><\/h1>\n

By the close of the month, PVAMU\u2019s research story came into fuller view.<\/p>\n

Student Research Day showed emerging scholars stepping forward with confidence. Faculty Research Day showed the depth of scholarship across campus and the value of intentional connection. Compliance and research integrity sessions showed that growth must be protected by rigor, responsibility and trust. The Strategic Partnerships and Innovation Forum showed how discovery can move into broader application through aligned partnerships. The commercialization seminar showed how ideas can be protected, licensed and moved toward market. The recognition reception honored the people whose work makes progress possible.<\/p>\n

Together, these moments showed a university community doing the steady, disciplined work of building something larger than any single program, office or event.<\/p>\n

PVAMU\u2019s research enterprise is becoming more visible, more connected and more prepared for sustained growth. That work aligns with the university\u2019s Journey to Eminence 2035 and its Rise to R1 priorities: growing research capacity, streamlining research processes, strengthening graduate programs and investing in research infrastructure.<\/p>\n

In FY2025, that progress included startup support for new faculty, expanded proposal development, faculty research funding, equipment support across key academic units, student research support, compliance training and stronger administrative support. It also included $520,000 in Panther RISE funding, 13 collaborative teams, 55 proposals reviewed, major partner engagement with Texas A&M, Shell, Sandia and Princeton and approval of $1.98 million in semiconductor workforce development funding.<\/p>\n

These details matter because they show that momentum is not simply being celebrated at Prairie View. It is being built through people, systems, partnerships and belief in what this university can become.<\/p>\n

As PVAMU continues its Journey to Eminence, Research & Innovation Month offered a clear view of the future already taking shape: students stepping into discovery, faculty advancing knowledge, partners engaging with purpose and a university community rising together around work that matters.<\/p>\n

That is where legacy meets impact.<\/p>\n

And that is how Prairie View A&M University continues building its bright future through boundless research, bold partnerships and a clear commitment to Rise to R1.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":2236,"featured_media":34821,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"rs_blank_template":"","rs_page_bg_color":"","slide_template_v7":"","revslider_featured_slider_id":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[65,1726,1316,1960,4809,4916,4915,1628,1961,68,69,1235,63,1598,1,1435],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-34820","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-announcements","category-archive-for-undergraduate-research","category-communication-spotlight","category-department","category-graduate-student-research","category-iceed","category-innovation","category-marketing-cta","category-marketing-main-slider","category-research-briefs","category-research-funding-news","category-research-highlights","category-research-main-slider","category-research-news","category-uncategorized","category-undergraduate-research"],"acf":[],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2026-05-14 05:55:28","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34820","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2236"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34820"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34820\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34821"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34820"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34820"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34820"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":34811,"date":"2026-05-06T14:26:07","date_gmt":"2026-05-06T19:26:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/?p=34811"},"modified":"2026-05-06T14:26:07","modified_gmt":"2026-05-06T19:26:07","slug":"ray-secures-usda-grant-to-elevate-excellence-in-agriculture-trade-education-at-pvamu-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/post\/ray-secures-usda-grant-to-elevate-excellence-in-agriculture-trade-education-at-pvamu-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Prairie View Researchers Are Turning Agricultural Waste Into Opportunity"},"content":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW<\/strong>, Texas (May 6, 2026) — Biochar research at Prairie View is transforming crop residue into far-reaching environmental solutions, and a new biomass processing and biochar production unit is set to accelerate that work.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Led by Dr. Ram Ray, the initiative centers on a waste-to-value model that converts unused biomass into biochar, a stable, carbon-rich material that can remain in soil for years and support long-term soil health and\u00a0environmental\u00a0sustainability.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Professional<\/a>

Dr. Ray Ram<\/p><\/div>\n

Dr. Ray contributes to PVAMU\u2019s land-grant mission through teaching, research, service<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and leadership in research development and collaboration. In the Biochar Project, his role reflects that same approach: coordinating project planning, aligning resources<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and\u00a0facilitating\u00a0research operations so that students and fellow researchers can effectively use the biochar processing unit to produce meaningful research outcomes for Texas and beyond.<\/span><\/p>\n

These collaborations broaden the scope of the work, support more integrated research approaches<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and strengthen the project\u2019s ability to address complex issues such as soil health, carbon management<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and\u00a0environmental\u00a0sustainability. As a result, the initiative serves not only as a research project but also as a platform for student development, cross-disciplinary scholarship<\/span>,<\/span> and institutional research growth.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

According to Dr. Ray, the automated biochar processing unit\u00a0at\u00a0this scale\u00a0is unlike anything currently available at other public or private institutions. He said the system positions PVAMU to strengthen its land-grant mission, expand its leadership in applied and interdisciplinary research<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and advance practical solutions to agricultural and environmental challenges.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Nearly $1 million\u00a0in total investment has supported the project\u2019s growth, with the most\u00a0significant portion\u00a0going toward\u00a0the\u00a0acquisition of the $500,000 biochar processing unit set to accelerate Prairie View\u2019s biochar research capacity, efficiency<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and long-term impact.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

While the project advances\u00a0cutting-edge\u00a0research, it also reflects a broader purpose: connecting education with meaningful impact.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"A<\/a>

Students collecting field materials<\/p><\/div>\n

Dr. Ray emphasized that the university is well positioned to link research, education<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and outreach in ways that create long-term value. With strengths\u00a0in sustainable agriculture, student training, community\u00a0engagement\u00a0and innovation that serve\u00a0real-world needs, PVAMU is expanding biochar research in ways that can\u00a0benefit\u00a0producers,\u00a0communities\u00a0and the broader research enterprise.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Students play\u00a0a central role\u00a0in that mission. Through hands-on involvement, they gain experience with biochar technologies and their applications in sustainable agriculture and environmental management, building both practical skills and research\u00a0expertise.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

At PVAMU, that kind of work ties directly into a long-standing commitment to producing \u201cproductive Panthers,\u201d encouraging students to think about how their education can translate into service and impact after graduation. Projects like the biochar initiative create space for students, especially those from historically underrepresented backgrounds, to engage in meaningful research while considering how they might give back to their communities.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Ray said the project\u00a0is focused\u00a0not only on scientific advancement but also on developing practical solutions that\u00a0benefit\u00a0agriculture, the environment<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and communities. He also noted that it creates opportunities for students from historically underrepresented backgrounds to engage in hands-on research, gain technical experience<\/span>,<\/span> and prepare for future leadership roles. <\/span><\/p>\n

In that way, the work reflects both academic excellence and a broader commitment to innovation, public impact<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and expanded opportunity.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Collaboration has been key to\u00a0advancing the work.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>At Prairie View A&M University,\u00a0the resources, community<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and environment have been instrumental in advancing research led by Dr. Ray. He said the university\u2019s land-grant mission creates a space where applied research is valued and where projects are encouraged to address real needs in agriculture, sustainability<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and community development.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

That support has helped turn research into practical impact, backed by strong infrastructure and a collaborative culture. Dr. Ray added that interdisciplinary collaboration and external partnerships are essential for building projects with long-term value.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Biochar produced through the unit is expected to improve soil structure and nutrient retention over time, offering lasting benefits beyond traditional fertilizers. Rather than allowing agricultural residues to burn or go unused, the system captures their potential, providing a more sustainable, climate-conscious alternative.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Plans for farmer demonstrations and outreach aim to extend that impact beyond campus, potentially allowing producers to contribute agricultural waste and receive biochar in return.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs an HBCU with a strong tradition of access and excellence, PVAMU is expanding research capacity, supporting faculty and student achievement<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and developing solutions that matter both locally and broadly,\u201d Dr. Ray said. That is what makes the university an important and emerging leader in research, innovation<\/span>,<\/span>\u00a0and agriculture.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":2236,"featured_media":34816,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"rs_blank_template":"","rs_page_bg_color":"","slide_template_v7":"","revslider_featured_slider_id":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[65,1726,1316,1960,4809,4916,4915,1628,1961,68,69,1235,63,1598,1,1435],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-34811","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-announcements","category-archive-for-undergraduate-research","category-communication-spotlight","category-department","category-graduate-student-research","category-iceed","category-innovation","category-marketing-cta","category-marketing-main-slider","category-research-briefs","category-research-funding-news","category-research-highlights","category-research-main-slider","category-research-news","category-uncategorized","category-undergraduate-research"],"acf":[],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2026-05-14 05:55:28","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34811","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2236"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34811"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34811\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34816"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34811"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34811"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34811"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":34572,"date":"2026-03-17T09:52:17","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T14:52:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/?p=34572"},"modified":"2026-03-23T10:13:17","modified_gmt":"2026-03-23T15:13:17","slug":"ray-secures-usda-grant-to-elevate-excellence-in-agriculture-trade-education-at-pvamu","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/post\/ray-secures-usda-grant-to-elevate-excellence-in-agriculture-trade-education-at-pvamu\/","title":{"rendered":"Ray Secures USDA Grant to Elevate Excellence in Agriculture Trade Education at PVAMU"},"content":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW<\/strong>, Texas (March 17, 2026) — Ram Ray, Ph.D., P.E., a leading researcher and professor in the College of Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources at Prairie View A&M University, has secured a nearly $600,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s National Institute of Food and Agriculture to support the training of the next generation of students prepared for careers in agricultural trade.<\/p>\n

\"headshot<\/a>

Ram Ray, Ph.D., P.E.<\/p><\/div>\n

Serving as co-principal investigators on the project are Kwaku Addo, Ph.D.; Godlove Fonjweng, Ph.D.; Aruna D. Weerasooriya, Ph.D.; Gebrekidan Tefera, Ph.D.; and Selamawit Woldesenbet, Ph.D., all of Prairie View A&M University.<\/p>\n

This project aims to integrate teaching and research to strengthen Prairie View A&M University\u2019s role in preparing a highly skilled workforce for the food, agriculture, and natural resources sectors. As global challenges in agricultural trade, food security, and resource management intensify, the project equips students with the knowledge and experience needed to compete in an increasingly global marketplace.<\/p>\n

By prioritizing international exposure, students gain practical insight into global agricultural systems, research approaches, and market dynamics essential to expanding U.S. agricultural exports. The initiative is expected to increase the number of career-ready graduates while enhancing student recruitment and enrollment in PVAMU\u2019s agriculture-related programs.<\/p>\n

Aligned with Executive Order 14283, the White House Initiative to Promote Excellence and Innovation at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, the project advances PVAMU\u2019s capacity to deliver high-quality education, elevate research engagement, and strengthen workforce preparation in critical agricultural industries. \u201cDr. Ray\u2019s research also supports the new priorities of the USDA NIFA and the Vision of Excellence in Research in the College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (CAFNR) at PVAMU\u201d stated Dr. Memili, Executive Asociate Director of CAFNR Research, and the Director of the Governor Bill and Vara Daniel Farm and Ranch at PVAMU.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (March 17, 2026) — Ram Ray, Ph.D., P.E., a leading researcher and professor in the College of Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources at Prairie View A&M University, has secured a nearly $600,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s National Institute of Food and Agriculture to support the training of the next […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":245,"featured_media":34684,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"rs_blank_template":"","rs_page_bg_color":"","slide_template_v7":"","revslider_featured_slider_id":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[65,1726,1316,1960,4809,4916,4915,1628,1961,68,69,1235,63,1598,1,1435],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-34572","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-announcements","category-archive-for-undergraduate-research","category-communication-spotlight","category-department","category-graduate-student-research","category-iceed","category-innovation","category-marketing-cta","category-marketing-main-slider","category-research-briefs","category-research-funding-news","category-research-highlights","category-research-main-slider","category-research-news","category-uncategorized","category-undergraduate-research"],"acf":[],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2026-05-14 05:55:28","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34572","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/245"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34572"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34572\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34684"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34572"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34572"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34572"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":34496,"date":"2026-01-22T14:33:18","date_gmt":"2026-01-22T20:33:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/?p=34496"},"modified":"2026-01-22T14:33:18","modified_gmt":"2026-01-22T20:33:18","slug":"student-spotlight-alliere-murphy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/post\/student-spotlight-alliere-murphy\/","title":{"rendered":"Student Spotlight: Alliere Murphy"},"content":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW<\/strong>, Texas (January 22, 2026) \u2014 Prairie View A&M University senior Alliere Murphy has her sights set on transforming both science and smiles. A biology major and participant in the RISE Program, Murphy is already shaping her future through hands-on research, leadership, and a passion for serving her community.<\/p>\n

Mentored by Lori Banks, Ph.D., Murphy investigates Rotavirus Non-structural Protein 4 (NSP4) viroporin mutants<\/em> to identify potential antiviral target sites\u2014an ambitious project that places her at the center of impactful biomedical discovery.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlliere wasn\u2019t sure about the assay protocol at first, but she jumped right in and made it her own. Even though she is a busy student leader, she manages her time well and keeps pushing the project forward a little every week.\u201d<\/p>\n

In fall 2025, her work earned her a coveted opportunity: presenting at the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS) in San Antonio.\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

\u201cThe highlight of my experience in the RISE Program was attending ABRCMS,\u201d Murphy said. \u201cThis conference gave me the opportunity to present the research I\u2019ve been doing alongside my mentor. It was extremely informative and a great way to network with students and professionals from across the country.\u201d<\/p>\n

Murphy\u2019s drive extends far beyond the laboratory. After graduation, she plans to pursue a dual DDS\/Ph.D. degree, with the long-term goal of opening her own private dental practice and launching a nonprofit organization focused on community care. Her research interests already point her toward this path, particularly the connection between oral health and cardiovascular disease. \"Alliere<\/a><\/p>\n

Outside academics, Murphy is a familiar face in student life. She plays tuba with the renowned PVAMU Marching Storm, serves as president of the Epsilon Psi Chapter of Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority, participates in the Honors Program (HPXV) and B-Global, and still finds time to excel as a student-researcher.<\/p>\n

Whether she\u2019s in the lab, on the field, or leading her peers, Murphy brings purpose and energy to everything she does. And as she prepares for life after PVAMU, her commitment to science, service and community continues to shine\u2014proof of the promise emerging from the RISE Program each year.<\/p>\n

The PVAMU Faculty-RISE Program, led by Vice President for Research and Innovation Magesh Rajan, Ph.D., P.E., empowers students through comprehensive research training, dedicated mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The program is designed to prepare the next generation of scientists and innovators to drive transformative discoveries and leadership both at PVAMU and in their future careers.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (January 22, 2026) \u2014 Prairie View A&M University senior Alliere Murphy has her sights set on transforming both science and smiles. A biology major and participant in the RISE Program, Murphy is already shaping her future through hands-on research, leadership, and a passion for serving her community. Mentored by Lori Banks, Ph.D., […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":245,"featured_media":34585,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"rs_blank_template":"","rs_page_bg_color":"","slide_template_v7":"","revslider_featured_slider_id":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[65,1726,1316,1960,4915,1628,1961,68,69,1235,63,1598,1,1435],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-34496","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-announcements","category-archive-for-undergraduate-research","category-communication-spotlight","category-department","category-innovation","category-marketing-cta","category-marketing-main-slider","category-research-briefs","category-research-funding-news","category-research-highlights","category-research-main-slider","category-research-news","category-uncategorized","category-undergraduate-research"],"acf":[],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2026-05-14 05:55:28","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34496","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/245"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34496"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34496\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34585"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34496"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34496"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34496"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":34542,"date":"2026-01-22T13:37:10","date_gmt":"2026-01-22T19:37:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/?p=34542"},"modified":"2026-01-22T13:38:10","modified_gmt":"2026-01-22T19:38:10","slug":"pvamus-kebrom-leads-breakthrough-research-on-plant-branching-to-improve-crop-yields","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/post\/pvamus-kebrom-leads-breakthrough-research-on-plant-branching-to-improve-crop-yields\/","title":{"rendered":"PVAMU\u2019s Kebrom Leads Breakthrough Research on Plant Branching to Improve Crop Yields"},"content":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (January 22, 2026)<\/strong> \u2014 <\/strong>As drought conditions intensify across Texas and agricultural regions worldwide, a Prairie View A&M University researcher has secured federal funding to study how plant growth patterns can be optimized to improve crop resilience and productivity.<\/p>\n

Tesfamichael Kebrom, Ph.D., a research scientist in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Research at Prairie View A&M University, has been awarded a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s National Institute of Food and Agriculture to investigate the role of plant branching in drought tolerance and yield efficiency.<\/p>\n

The project focuses on shoot branching, also known as tillering, in major crops such as corn, wheat, sorghum and rice. Branch number plays a critical role in plant architecture and yield potential. In many crops, excessive branching leads to inefficient use of water and nutrients when branches fail to produce grain. By examining the physiological and genetic mechanisms that regulate branching, the research aims to inform strategies that optimize plant structure, improve resource efficiency and enhance crop productivity under drought conditions.<\/p>\n

The USDA\/NIFA-funded project, titled \u201cUnraveling Reduced Tillering in Drought-Tolerant Stay-Green Sorghum for Enhanced Crop Resilience,\u201d will examine how reduced branching contributes to drought tolerance in sorghum, a crop widely used as a model system for drought research.<\/p>\n

\"Tesfamichael<\/a>

Tesfamichael Kebrom, Ph.D.<\/p><\/div>\n

Sorghum is known for its exceptional ability to withstand water stress and is often referred to as the \u201ccamel crop.\u201d Within sorghum, researchers have identified highly resilient \u201cstay-green\u201d genotypes that maintain green leaf area and continue photosynthesis during drought. Recent research by teams at Texas A&M University and in Australia has identified reduced branch number as a key factor contributing to this enhanced drought tolerance. Building on these findings, the project will investigate whether the physiological and genetic mechanisms controlling reduced branching also contribute to drought resilience or whether reduced branching alone lowers plant water demand.<\/p>\n

The research effort brings together a multidisciplinary team spanning agriculture, engineering and computational biology. Seungchan Kim, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering in the Roy G. Perry College of Engineering and director of the Center for Computational Systems Biology, will serve as co-principal investigator and lead gene expression data analysis. Sela Woldesenbet, DVM, manager of the core laboratories at CAFNR Research, will also serve as co-principal investigator and support plant sample analyses using core laboratory equipment.<\/p>\n

In addition to advancing scientific understanding, the project will provide hands-on research training for one graduate student and several undergraduate students, supporting workforce development in plant physiology, genomics and crop improvement.<\/p>\n

This research aligns with the Vision of Excellence in Research at CAFNR Research, the USDA-NIFA Plan of Work, and Prairie View A&M University\u2019s Journey to Eminence, reinforcing the university\u2019s commitment to federally competitive research that addresses global challenges in agriculture, sustainability and food security.<\/p>\n

By Joe McGinty, with contributions from Tesfamichael Kebrom, Ph.D., and Erdogan Memili, Ph.D.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (January 22, 2026) \u2014 As drought conditions intensify across Texas and agricultural regions worldwide, a Prairie View A&M University researcher has secured federal funding to study how plant growth patterns can be optimized to improve crop resilience and productivity. Tesfamichael Kebrom, Ph.D., a research scientist in the College of Agriculture, Food and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":245,"featured_media":34544,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"rs_blank_template":"","rs_page_bg_color":"","slide_template_v7":"","revslider_featured_slider_id":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[65,1726,1316,4809,1628,1961,68,69,1235,63,1598],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-34542","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-announcements","category-archive-for-undergraduate-research","category-communication-spotlight","category-graduate-student-research","category-marketing-cta","category-marketing-main-slider","category-research-briefs","category-research-funding-news","category-research-highlights","category-research-main-slider","category-research-news"],"acf":[],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2026-05-14 05:55:28","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34542","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/245"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34542"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34542\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34544"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34542"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34542"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34542"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":34537,"date":"2025-12-17T08:43:52","date_gmt":"2025-12-17T14:43:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/?p=34537"},"modified":"2025-12-17T08:43:52","modified_gmt":"2025-12-17T14:43:52","slug":"usda-awards-grant-to-pvamus-abdelwahed-for-innovative-pest-protection-study","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/post\/usda-awards-grant-to-pvamus-abdelwahed-for-innovative-pest-protection-study\/","title":{"rendered":"USDA Awards Grant to PVAMU’s Abdelwahed for Innovative Pest-Protection Study"},"content":{"rendered":"

\n

PRAIRIE VIEW<\/strong>, Texas (December 17, 2025) \u2014 Prairie View A&M University is advancing the future of food safety through a new $100,000 grant from the USDA\u2019s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The award supports a collaborative research project led by Sameh Abdelwahed, Ph.D<\/a>., associate professor in the Department of Chemistry, working alongside Keyan Zhu-Salzman, Ph.D., professor of entomology at Texas A&M University.<\/p>\n

\"Sameh<\/a>

Sameh Abdelwahed, Ph.D.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

The project, titled \u201cEnhancing Food Storage Using Natural Plant Oils and Nano-Preservatives to Prevent Insect Infestation,\u201d<\/i>\u00a0aims to develop innovative, eco-friendly preservatives made from plant-derived essential oils. By pairing these natural oils with advanced nanotechnology, the team seeks to reduce dependence on synthetic pesticides while strengthening the protection of stored agricultural products.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
At the core of the research is the creation of chitosan-based nanoparticles and nanocapsules designed to encapsulate essential oils such as neem, eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender and cedarwood. These nano-preservatives are engineered for slow, controlled release, offering long-lasting defense against common storage pests. The work includes formulation and characterization of the nanostructures, advanced release studies and kinetic modeling, and rigorous testing against insects like the Indian meal moth and red flour beetle.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The project will also explore how these materials can be incorporated into real-world food storage systems and evaluate safety considerations to ensure the solutions are practical, scalable and consumer-friendly.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Beyond its scientific contributions, the project delivers significant benefits to Prairie View A&M University. Undergraduate researchers will gain hands-on experience with high-impact work at the intersection of nanotechnology, chemistry and sustainable agriculture\u2014experience that positions them competitively for graduate programs and STEM careers. The grant also reinforces PVAMU\u2019s growing leadership in research addressing global challenges in food security, environmental sustainability and pest resistance.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
By Joe McGinty<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (December 17, 2025) \u2014 Prairie View A&M University is advancing the future of food safety through a new $100,000 grant from the USDA\u2019s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The award supports a collaborative research project led by Sameh Abdelwahed, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Chemistry, working alongside Keyan […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":245,"featured_media":34570,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"rs_blank_template":"","rs_page_bg_color":"","slide_template_v7":"","revslider_featured_slider_id":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[65,1726,1316,1960,4809,4915,1628,1961,68,69,1235,63,1598,1,1435],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-34537","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-announcements","category-archive-for-undergraduate-research","category-communication-spotlight","category-department","category-graduate-student-research","category-innovation","category-marketing-cta","category-marketing-main-slider","category-research-briefs","category-research-funding-news","category-research-highlights","category-research-main-slider","category-research-news","category-uncategorized","category-undergraduate-research"],"acf":[],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2026-05-14 05:55:28","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34537","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/245"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34537"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34537\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34570"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34537"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34537"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34537"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":34499,"date":"2025-12-16T10:20:27","date_gmt":"2025-12-16T16:20:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/?p=34499"},"modified":"2025-12-16T10:20:27","modified_gmt":"2025-12-16T16:20:27","slug":"pvamus-kommalapati-secures-grant-to-advance-sustainable-aviation-fuel-innovation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/post\/pvamus-kommalapati-secures-grant-to-advance-sustainable-aviation-fuel-innovation\/","title":{"rendered":"PVAMU\u2019s Kommalapati Secures Grant to Advance Sustainable Aviation Fuel Innovation"},"content":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW<\/strong>, Texas (December 16, 2025) — Raghava Kommalapati, Ph.D., Honeywell Endowed Professor and professor of civil and environmental engineering, and Ananda Amarasekara, Ph.D., Regents Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Physics at Prairie View A&M University, have been awarded a $320,000 grant from Shell Global Solutions to support research in sustainable aviation fuels.<\/p>\n

The research team plants to develop innovative catalytic approaches to convert biomass derived feedstocks into sustainable aviation fuels. This approach aims to address global demand for cleaner, more efficient energy sources and support efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the aviation industry.<\/p>\n

\"Dr.<\/a>

Raghava Kommalapati, Ph.D.<\/p><\/div>\n

The collaboration will leverage Shell’s expertise and PVAMU’s research capabilities with the goal of advancing catalyst development and conversion techniques, contributing valuable knowledge to the broader scientific and engineering community. Outcomes are expected to include peer-reviewed publications and intellectual property filings that explore the fundamental chemistry behind transforming polysaccharides into hydrocarbons.<\/p>\n

The grant will also focus on strengthening student and postdoctoral training at PVAMU. One graduate student will complete a master\u2019s thesis based on the project\u2019s findings, and a postdoctoral research associate will receive specialized training and professional development through hands-on research engagement.<\/p>\n

This award highlights PVAMU\u2019s increasing influence as a leader in sustainable energy research. The project not only expands the University\u2019s portfolio in renewable fuels and environmental innovation but also enhances opportunities for students and researchers to contribute to solutions that support global decarbonization and long-term energy resilience.<\/p>\n

By Joe McGinty, with contributions from Alexandra Smith, Shell Global Solutions<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (December 16, 2025) — Raghava Kommalapati, Ph.D., Honeywell Endowed Professor and professor of civil and environmental engineering, and Ananda Amarasekara, Ph.D., Regents Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Physics at Prairie View A&M University, have been awarded a $320,000 grant from Shell Global Solutions to support research in sustainable aviation fuels. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":245,"featured_media":34506,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"rs_blank_template":"","rs_page_bg_color":"","slide_template_v7":"","revslider_featured_slider_id":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[65,1726,1316,1960,4809,4916,4915,1628,1961,68,69,1235,63,1598,1,1435],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-34499","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-announcements","category-archive-for-undergraduate-research","category-communication-spotlight","category-department","category-graduate-student-research","category-iceed","category-innovation","category-marketing-cta","category-marketing-main-slider","category-research-briefs","category-research-funding-news","category-research-highlights","category-research-main-slider","category-research-news","category-uncategorized","category-undergraduate-research"],"acf":[],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2026-05-14 05:55:28","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34499","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/245"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34499"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34499\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34506"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34499"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34499"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34499"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":34517,"date":"2025-12-16T10:09:45","date_gmt":"2025-12-16T16:09:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/?p=34517"},"modified":"2025-12-16T10:09:45","modified_gmt":"2025-12-16T16:09:45","slug":"rise-student-spotlight-laura-upchurch","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/post\/rise-student-spotlight-laura-upchurch\/","title":{"rendered":"RISE Student Spotlight: Laura Upchurch"},"content":{"rendered":"

PRIAIRE VIEW<\/strong>, Texas (December 16, 2025) — Prairie View A&M University junior Laura Upchurch, a Human Nutrition and Food major, has discovered a deeper sense of purpose through her experience in the RISE Program. Mentored by Jacklyn Sanders, Ph.D., Upchurch is studying how mentorship shapes student engagement and retention within the College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources’ Research (CAFNR Research). Her research examines the impact of the Mentor Collective\u2019s \u201cPanther-to-Panther\u201d and \u201cPanthers on the Move\u201d programs.<\/p>\n

\"Laura<\/a><\/p>\n

For Upchurch, the greatest highlight of RISE has been gaining firsthand exposure to the research process. She said working alongside passionate faculty and staff has fueled her curiosity and strengthened her confidence.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve always loved asking questions,\u201d she said. \u201cThis program allows me to do it in an elevated and academic manner I could only dream of after graduation.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLaura is one of those rare students who approaches research with both curiosity and discipline. Her enthusiasm for understanding how mentorship shapes the student experience has elevated the quality of our work in CAFNR. She brings fresh ideas, asks thoughtful questions, and follows through with exceptional professionalism. Watching her grow as a researcher has been a true privilege,\u201d Sanders said.<\/p>\n

After earning her bachelor\u2019s degree, Upchurch plans to continue her studies at PVAMU, pursue a master\u2019s degree, pass the Registered Dietitian exam and eventually complete a doctorate. Her long-term goal is to become a community leader who shares science-based knowledge that helps people live healthier, happier lives.<\/p>\n

Her research interests are shaped by a clear understanding of the post-COVID student experience. Many students, she explained, still struggle to find belonging after spending their formative years learning through screens. That\u2019s why she believes mentorship matters now more than ever.<\/p>\n

Through digital platforms like Mentor Collective, Upchurch said students are paired with mentors who share their interests and experiences\u2014giving them someone relatable to guide them through university life. As both a mentor and mentee, she values the opportunity to support others while continuing to learn from those who came before her.<\/p>\n

Preliminary data from her project shows encouraging trends: students who engage in these programs report a stronger sense of belonging and greater academic success. Upchurch said she looks forward to analyzing this year\u2019s outcomes to help strengthen future program offerings.<\/p>\n

She encourages anyone interested\u2014students, faculty, staff, alumni or industry partners\u2014to get involved.<\/p>\n

\u201cAny person who wants to help a PVAMU student, or any student who wants help, is welcome to stop me and ask how to join,\u201d she said. \u201cOr just say hi. I\u2019m always happy to help.\u201d<\/p>\n

The PVAMU Faculty-RISE Program, led by Vice President for Research and Innovation Magesh Rajan, Ph.D., P.E., empowers students through comprehensive research training, dedicated mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The program is designed to prepare the next generation of scientists and innovators to drive transformative discoveries and leadership both at PVAMU and in their future careers.<\/p>\n

By Joe McGinty<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

PRIAIRE VIEW, Texas (December 16, 2025) — Prairie View A&M University junior Laura Upchurch, a Human Nutrition and Food major, has discovered a deeper sense of purpose through her experience in the RISE Program. Mentored by Jacklyn Sanders, Ph.D., Upchurch is studying how mentorship shapes student engagement and retention within the College of Agriculture, Food, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":245,"featured_media":34518,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"rs_blank_template":"","rs_page_bg_color":"","slide_template_v7":"","revslider_featured_slider_id":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[65,1726,1316,1960,4809,4916,4915,1628,1961,68,69,1235,63,1598,1,1435],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-34517","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-announcements","category-archive-for-undergraduate-research","category-communication-spotlight","category-department","category-graduate-student-research","category-iceed","category-innovation","category-marketing-cta","category-marketing-main-slider","category-research-briefs","category-research-funding-news","category-research-highlights","category-research-main-slider","category-research-news","category-uncategorized","category-undergraduate-research"],"acf":[],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2026-05-14 05:55:28","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34517","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/245"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34517"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34517\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34518"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34517"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34517"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34517"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":34548,"date":"2025-12-11T11:49:31","date_gmt":"2025-12-11T17:49:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/?p=34548"},"modified":"2025-12-11T11:49:31","modified_gmt":"2025-12-11T17:49:31","slug":"fueling-innovation-am-system-introduces-research-excellence-fund","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pvamu.edu\/research\/post\/fueling-innovation-am-system-introduces-research-excellence-fund\/","title":{"rendered":"Fueling Innovation: A&M System Introduces Research Excellence Fund"},"content":{"rendered":"

PRAIRIE VIEW<\/strong>, Texas (December 11, 2025) \u2014 The Texas A&M University System is proposing the launch of a Research Excellence Fund (REF)<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0designed to strengthen research capacity, competitiveness, and impact across all member institutions\u2014including Prairie View A&M University.<\/p>\n

The REF will support strategic, high-value initiatives that advance discovery, fuel innovation, expand workforce development, and bolster national competitiveness.<\/p>\n

This merit-based program will prioritize:<\/p>\n