Amy Shober

Amy Shober is a Professor and Extension Specialist in Nutrient Management at the University of Delaware's College of Agriculture & Natural Resources, Department of Plant & Soil Sciences. She holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Soil Management from the University of Delaware, M.S. in Soil Science from Penn State, and dual B.S. degrees in Environmental Science (Waste Management) and Chemistry from Virginia Tech.

Her research group focuses on:

• Developing soil/nutrient management practices to reduce nonpoint nutrient pollution
• Integrating agronomy, geohydrology, engineering, and policy disciplines
• Improving agricultural profitability through sustainable practices
• Training 2-4 graduate/postdoctoral students annually

Research trends analysis shows strong emphasis on phosphorus dynamics (legacy P, subsurface transport), nitrogen management (leaching mitigation, fertilizer optimization), and developing practical solutions for coastal plain soils. Her work frequently involves interdisciplinary approaches combining soil science with agronomy, environmental engineering, and policy analysis.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Best paper award (Agricultural and Environmental Letters 2021)
• Leadership in regional workgroups (SERA-17, NECC-1812)
• Collaborative projects with USDA-NIFA, NRCS, and state agencies

Student mentorship spans:

• Ph.D. students (Zhixuan Qin, Lauren Mosesso)
• M.S. students (Jeremy Newswanger, Willow Blew)
• Former advisees now working in USDA, Nature Conservancy, and state environmental agencies
• Co-advising arrangements with Dr. Jarrod Miller

Her Nutrient Management and Environmental Quality Research Group operates from Townsend Hall, specializing in:

• Ditch-drained field studies
• Crop-soil-water interactions
• Practical BMP implementation
• Coastal soil salinity management
• Phosphorus Site Index development