About Soil and Crop Sciences
Department Overview
Our department is home to more than 600 students, led by more than 35 faculty and staff with expertise in the biological sciences, social and human dimensions, and policy and Extension, to generate sound scientific research, facilitate meaningful science-based discussions and train students to the highest caliber. We continue to be a trusted resource to landowners, natural resource professionals, policymakers and other valued stakeholders, like you. Collectively, these efforts serve to realize the Land-grant mission as described through our three focus areas — teaching, research and Extension.
Howdy and Welcome!
On behalf of the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, I extend a warm and enthusiastic welcome to you! Whether you are a prospective student, a researcher, a farmer, or anyone with an interest in the fascinating world of soil and crops, we are thrilled to have you as part of our community.
Our department is committed to advancing knowledge in the field of soil and crop sciences, and we are dedicated to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. As you explore our website, you will find a wealth of information about our faculty, research projects, academic programs, and the latest developments in our field.
We take pride in our diverse and talented faculty members who are at the forefront of groundbreaking research and innovative teaching. Our programs aim to provide students with a solid foundation in soil and crop sciences, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to address the challenges of sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.
Feel free to navigate through our website to discover the exciting opportunities, cutting-edge research, and educational resources that define our department. If you have any questions or if there’s anything specific you’re looking for, our dedicated staff and faculty members are here to assist you.
Thank you for your interest in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences. We look forward to engaging with you, whether it be through our virtual platforms, on-campus events, or potential collaborations. Together, let’s cultivate a rich and thriving community of individuals passionate about the science that sustains our world.
David Baltensperger, Ph.D.
Department Head
Mission
The mission of the Soil & Crop Sciences department is to promote the wise use, management, and stewardship of soil, plant, and water resources by preparing students for careers in soil, plant, and environmentally related disciplines; discovering new scientific knowledge and developing associated technologies to sustain environmentally sound and economically profitable production systems; and ensuring the efficient extension of technological developments to user clientele and society in general.
Vision
Our vision is to be the best at providing the world with sustainable food, feed, fiber, and fuel in a safe and aesthetically pleasing environment through discovery, education, and application.
Soil and Crop Sciences in the News
Xu named editor of prestigious plant breeding journal
Wenwei Xu, Ph.D., Texas A&M AgriLife Research corn breeder and geneticist in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, Lubbock, has accepted the nomination as editor of the Journal of Plant Registrations, JPR.
Texas A&M AgriLife researchers identify novel approach to minimize nitrogen loss in crops
A Texas A&M AgriLife Research team led by Nithya Rajan, Ph.D., is working to find crop varieties, starting with sorghum, that will minimize that escaped nitrogen, thus reducing input costs for farmers and greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere.