Field Trips
Our REEU program offers a wide range of engaging activities to enrich the learning experience of our students. From hands-on research to interactive workshops, we strive to provide a dynamic environment for personal and professional growth.
We believe that learning goes beyond the walls of the classroom. As part of our program, we organize field trips to various circularity-focused industries and research facilities. Through these excursions, our students gain firsthand exposure to real-world applications of their studies and build valuable connections with professionals in their respective fields.
If you need more specific information or have any questions, feel free to ask!
Success Stories
Over the past two years, our REEU program has seen numerous success stories. Our students have gone on to excel in their academic pursuits and make significant contributions to their chosen fields. Many have published research papers, presented their work at conferences, and secured prestigious internships and job placements. We take immense pride in the achievements of our past participants and look forward to nurturing the potential of future talents.
Our vision
The purpose of the USDA CD-Skills REEU in Food Systems program is to promote sustainable practices and innovation within the agri-food industry. Through the integration of circular economy principles and digitalization, we aim to train the future workforce towards a more efficient, transparent, and resilient food system. Our goal is to understand solutions to minimize waste, reduce resource consumption, and enhance the traceability and sustainability of food production, distribution, and consumption by adopting a “systems thinking” approach. Every year, we invite research mentors who are actively working on different parts of the food system and match them with REEU mentees coming from diverse disciplines and backgrounds. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and collaborative approaches, we aspire to transform the food system, contributing to a healthier planet and a better quality of life for all.
Previous Mentors and Projects
In our previous CD-Skills REEU program, we had a diverse group of mentors and conducted research projects that encompassed various disciplines. These mentors brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the program, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to our research.
One of our mentors was Dr. Gerrit Hoogenboom, a renowned agricultural and biological engineer specializing in crop modeling, decision support systems, and sustainable food systems.
Another mentor in our program was Dr. Frank Asche, who is a food system economist. Dr. Asche’s research delved into the economic aspects of seafood supply chain, examining trade data and supply patterns globally.
Additionally, we had Melanie Correll, a gene-based crop modeling expert. Dr. Correll’s research centered around developing salt-tolerant crops to minimize water usage in controlled-environment agriculture.
These are just a few examples of the mentors who have contributed to our program in the past. Through their guidance and expertise, our students were able to explore different perspectives on food systems and develop a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this field.
2024 Research Projects and Mentors
2023 Research Projects and Mentors
2022 Research Projects and Mentors
2023 CD-Skills REEU Participants
2022 CD-Skills REEU Participants
USDA NIFA CD-Skills REEU 