Hispanic Heritage Month

My name is Ruth Eunice Centeno Delphia, and I am from El Salvador. I hold a Ph.D. in Animal Science from Purdue University and am a member of the FFAR Fellows 2022-2025 cohort. My doctoral research focused on animal microbial ecology, where I explored the interactions between microorganisms and their animal hosts. Specifically, I investigated the relationship between the bovine respiratory microbiome community, including the abundance of four bacterial pathogens—Histophilus somni, Pasteurella multocida, Mannheimia haemolytica, and Mycoplasma bovis—and the development of Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD), a common respiratory disease that affects dairy and beef cattle. Although we can identify which bacteria infect the lungs of these animals through bacterial cultures of post-mortem lung tissue samples, an accurate method for diagnosing BRD in live animals is currently lacking. Thus, the objective of my research was to characterize the nasal microbiome community to identify differences between animals diagnosed with BRD and healthy cattle that could aid in disease diagnosis.

What are some interesting results of your research so far?
From my research, we observed differences in the nasal microbiome community between dairy and beef cattle. In beef cattle, we detected variations in the abundance of H. somni, M. bovis and M. haemolytica in the nasal cavity between BRD-affected and healthy animals, with BRD- affected cattle showing higher levels of these microbes. Surprisingly, in dairy cattle, the abundance of these pathogens did not significantly differ between BRD-affected and healthy animals. These findings suggest that while we have some understanding of the pathogens associated with BRD, the nasal microbiome and its diagnostic potential may vary depending on the type of cattle. Further research is needed to understand the interactions of these microbes with the host, considering factors such as animal management, diet, age, breed and environmental conditions in both dairy and beef feedlots.

What do you see as the benefit/potential impact of continuing to invest in food and agriculture research and how it affects farmers?
Investing in food and agriculture research offers numerous significant benefits for farmers. One key area of impact is improved animal health. For instance, research on diseases such as BRD plays a crucial role in enhancing our understanding of these conditions. This research leads to the development of more effective prevention strategies and treatment options. As a result, farmers experience a direct positive impact through a reduction in disease incidence. Healthier animals not only improve welfare but also boost overall productivity and profitability.

Learn More About My Research

Learn More About My Research

My name is Jose Pablo (JP) Dundore-Arias, I am an associate professor of plant pathology at Cal State University Monterey Bay, a Primarily Undergraduate and Hispanic Serving Institution. Our research addresses the substantial yield losses caused by soilborne diseases, exploring the beneficial roles of microorganisms that naturally enhance plant and soil health. We focus on high-value, nutrient-dense specialty crops, particularly leafy greens, which are pivotal to the economic and social mobility of agricultural communities in the California Salinas Valley, known as the Salad Bowl of the Nation. By integrating genetic, molecular and applied experimental data, our project aims to identify key soil organisms that promote plant growth and suppress pathogens and to develop methods for improving the identification and characterization of crop-associated microbial communities. Additionally, our project integrates educational initiatives aimed at developing the next generation of agricultural professionals, offering first- generation students from historically marginalized communities the opportunities to engage in plant and soil health research. It also embeds high-impact learning practices in undergraduate agricultural courses, enriching the educational experience and expanding student perspectives and opportunities.

What are some interesting results from your research so far?
Our study identified bacteria with pathogen-inhibitory and plant growth-promoting abilities, revealing that their functional roles are influenced by cropping histories. For instance, bacteria that suppress crop pathogens were found to be more prevalent in fields previously affected by specific diseases, suggesting they have evolved to effectively combat local pathogens. These bacteria also demonstrated high resistance to inhibition, showcasing their adaptability and potential for use in microbial inoculants. Additionally, scaffolded Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CURE) were shown to enhance continuous learning and deepen scientific understanding, significantly boosting student self-confidence and fostering a strong scientific identity, thus preparing them
for future academic and career opportunities.

What do you see as the benefit/potential impact of continuing to invest in food and agriculture research and how it affects farmers?
Investing in food and agriculture research can significantly improve farming practices, enhance understanding of plant and ecosystem health and translate knowledge into innovative applications that sustainably boost crop yields and nutrition. This benefits farmers by increasing productivity and profitability while ensuring a stable food supply and environmental conservation. Moreover, incorporating workforce development prepares a new generation of agricultural professionals, equipping them with the latest knowledge and technologies. This dual approach not only addresses immediate agricultural needs but also fosters sustained innovation and growth within the industry.

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I’m Hector Fajardo, a scientist, originally from Bolivia. Currently, I’m a Ph.D. student and a FFAR Fellow at NC State University. My work is on soil and water conservation, with a particular emphasis on phosphorus sustainability. While phosphorus is essential for optimal crop growth, it is also a major contributor to freshwater pollution. My research aims to identify the sources of phosphorus pollution by using simulation and empirical methods. By understanding these pathways, we can develop more targeted mitigation practices that enhance crop yields while minimizing the environmental impact.

What do you hope to accomplish with your research? How has your FFAR Fellowship helped?
Through my research, I seek to find the contribution of phosphorus inputs from agricultural systems, such as fertilizers, manures and legacy soils, to water bodies. Being a FFAR Fellow has allowed me to build valuable connections with scientists and stakeholders. I’ve had the opportunity to engage in scientific discussions with other researchers within the FFAR network. Also, I was able to connect with industry partners, which has broadened the perspective and practical relevance of my work.

What do you see as the benefit/potential impact of continuing to invest in food and agriculture research and how it affects farmers?
Investing in food and agriculture is more important than ever as we face the challenge of producing more food with fewer resources. The training I receive as a FFAR Fellow allows me to be more prepared to overcome this problem. Through the strong focus on teamwork, project management and science communication, the fellowship has provided me with the skills and confidence to collaborate with farmers and help them address this critical challenge together.

Learn More About My Research.