Alcorn State University’s agriculture students and faculty participated in this year’s 89th Annual Mississippi Academy of Sciences (MAS) Meeting.
The event brought together students, researchers, and faculty from across Mississippi to discuss the latest developments in scientific research.
Dr. Emran Ali, horticulture specialist for Extension Programs at Alcorn, was elected vice president of the Agriculture & Plant Science Division at MAS. This places him in line to serve as president of the Division next year.
Ali also served as a panelist alongside four faculty members from various Mississippi higher education institutions. The panel focused on how scientists select research questions, design studies, and inspire students to pursue careers in science.
Alcorn’s students competed in the Agriculture and Plant Sciences Division, earning six awards.
In the graduate oral presentation category, Abdul-Lateef Popoola, a graduate student, won first prize for his research on breeding resistance for watermelon production. John Jones also earned first place in Oral Session II for his work on tissue culture. Sritej Mateeti took second place for his study on phytoplasma as an emerging threat to crop production in Mississippi.
Among undergraduate students, Jontayvious Thomas won first place in the poster session for his research on rapid on-site soil testing. Raven Butler placed third for her work on integrated pest management for vegetable production. In the undergraduate oral session, Jamiyla Watson took home first prize for her research on on-site disease diagnosis.
“I was motivated to participate to share my research findings with the scientific community, gain feedback from experts, and learn from fellow researchers,” said Abdul-Lateef Popoola, a graduate student in agronomy. “The opportunity to represent Dr. Emran Ali’s lab and highlight our work in plant molecular diagnostics inspired me to take part.”
Sritej Mateeti, another graduate student, reflected on the impact of the event. “Winning the award is rewarding, but more than that, this recognition motivates me to continue my research and stay in academia. My next goal is to pursue my Ph.D.; this experience has given me confidence,” he said.
Dr. Victor Njiti, chair of the Department of Agriculture, highlighted the students and faculty mentors for their accomplishments and dedication to research.
“I am incredibly proud of our students for their outstanding performance at the Mississippi Academy of Sciences Meeting,” said Njiti. “Their hard work, guided by our dedicated faculty, reflects Alcorn’s commitment to advancing agricultural research and sustainability. These achievements show that we are leading the way in agricultural innovation and preparing the next generation of scientists to tackle future challenges.”
