Aphid ‘honeydew’ may promote bacteria that kill them

The word ‘honeydew’ sounds benign, but the sugary waste product of aphids can promote growth of bacteria that are highly virulent to the pests, according to a new study. 

Center of Innovation optimizes digital solutions to combat agricultural pest

Digital technologies developed by the Innovation Lab for Crop Improvement are helping farmers in Africa combat an agricultural pest that is choking food security across the continent. 

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Ambitious initiative aims to achieve zero-hunger, zero-carbon food systems

A new initiative at the Tata-Cornell Institute for Agriculture and Nutrition (TCI) will chart a path for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions associated with agriculture while meeting the nutritional demands of growing populations.

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Gene discoveries could lead to heartier, less gritty spinach

A team of researchers from Boyce Thompson Institute and six Chinese universities has identified genes in spinach that regulate its concentration of oxalate, which is responsible for “spinach teeth,” as well as genes that help the plant combat downy mildew, a major disease of commercial crops.

Summer Scholars program set to boost DEI, digital ag efforts

Cornell AgriTech’s Summer Research Scholars Program is increasing the number of underrepresented student participants and boosting expertise in digital agricultural technology, thanks to a grant of nearly $500,000 from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA).

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Lei recognized for livestock feed enzyme inventions

Animal Science Professor Xingen Lei has been named a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors, in recognition of his groundbreaking work on livestock phosphorus nutrition that improves global animal agriculture, preserves non-renewable phosphorus, and protects the environment. 

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Glass half full: Cornell’s COP26 delegation returns informed, inspired

Cornell COP26 delegation fueled the climate conversation in Glasgow, building new and unexpected connections to catalyze extraordinary change with support from Cornell Atkinson.

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Students completing their studies eye the future

Around 1,450 Cornell students completed their studies this month. While the December Recognition Ceremony was canceled, some shared their university experiences.

Online course makes hard cider easier 

Students have flocked to Cornell AgriTech’s hard apple cider online training with 236 cider producers from around the world taking part since the pandemic forced a change in format.