Find Academic Supervisors

Kevin KochersbergerView profile

Associate Professor

• Dynamics and control
• Autonomous aerial systems
• Applied aerodynamics
• +7 more

Dr. Kevin Kochersberger is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Virginia Tech , with a career spanning academic research, technical innovation, and educational leadership. His work focuses on autonomous aerial systems , robotic control , and applied aerodynamics , particularly through the Uncrewed Systems Laboratory . Kochersberger's research has pioneered UAV-based radiation detection , 3D terrain mapping , and low-resource drone applications , including establishing the African Drone and Data Academy in Malawi . Education: Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech (1994) M.S., Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech (1984) B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech (1983) A.S., Engineering Science, Jamestown Community College (1981) Kochersberger's publications demonstrate expertise in UAV path planning , smart material actuation , and radiation source localization , with over $9M in research funding. His scientific awards include AIAA Associate Fellow (2009) and Aviation Week Aerospace Laureate (2003). Notable projects involve helicopter-deployable robotic systems and urban canyon navigation without GPS. Recent articles highlight BVLOS drone simulators , 2.5D terrain mapping , and autonomous negative obstacle traversal , reflecting his focus on real-time adaptive control and heterogeneous robotic systems . He teaches Drone Technology and Flight Operations and Advanced Design Projects , emphasizing student-driven innovation and industry collaboration .

Miguel CastilloView profile

Associate Professor

• Forage Science
• Grassland Management
• Silvopasture Systems
• +4 more

Miguel Castillo is an Associate Professor in the Crop and Soil Sciences Department at North Carolina State University (NC State), leading the Forage & Grassland Program and serving as Grassland Science Specialist. He holds a Ph.D. in Agronomy from the University of Florida and an MBA from NC State. His work focuses on improving ecosystem services in agricultural and pasture-based livestock systems through integration of silvopasture, agroforestry, and advanced technologies like near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for management decisions. Dr. Castillo's education includes a B.S. in Plant and Animal Sciences from Zamorano University (2006), followed by M.S. and Ph.D. in Agronomy from the University of Florida (2009, 2013). His research spans international collaborations in tropical/sub-tropical environments, with expertise in forage crop management, bioenergy grasses, and sustainable livestock systems. He is fluent in Spanish and Portuguese. Research Interests: Forage-Livestock Systems Optimization Silvopasture Development Bioenergy Crop Production NIRS Applications in Agriculture Pasture-Based Livestock Management Climate Resilient Forage Crops Recent work emphasizes NIRS for rapid forage quality analysis, evaluating new bermudagrass cultivars, and advancing silvopasture systems in the southeastern U.S. and Peruvian Amazon. His publications address topics like poultry litter impacts, switchgrass management post-freeze, and frost-seeding clover into tall fescue pastures. Grant-supported research includes USDA-funded projects on forage conservation techniques and bioenergy crop development. He advises graduate students on forage systems and collaborates with industry partners on applied agronomic solutions. Labs/Teams: Directs the Forage & Grassland Program at NC State, collaborating with USDA and international research networks. Active in extension programs, publishing guides on forage management, hay production, and silvopasture implementation.

Jason HendersonView profile

Professor

• Pesticide-free management methods
• Turfgrass establishment techniques
• Soil modification
• +2 more

Jason Henderson is a Professor of Soil Science in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at the University of Connecticut's College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources. His research focuses on developing sustainable turfgrass management practices through innovations in pesticide-free techniques, soil modification, and root zone assessment. Dr. Henderson holds a PhD in Crop and Soil Sciences from Michigan State University. Research Interests: His work encompasses turfgrass establishment optimization, laboratory methods for evaluating root zone constituents, and innovative approaches to enhance turf performance under traffic stress. Current projects investigate organic management systems, soil physical properties, and environmental sustainability in turf settings. Teaching: Dr. Henderson instructs courses including Introduction to Soil Science (SAPL 300), The Great American Lawn (SPSS 1060), and Advanced Turfgrass Management (SPSS 3150).

Bradley TurnerView profile

Professor

• Golf Instruction
• Golf Education
• Golf Course Management
• +5 more

Bradley Turner serves as the Director of Online Golf Instruction at Keiser University College of Golf, where he holds an academic position with significant leadership responsibilities. With credentials including an MBA and PGA certification, Turner has established himself as an authority in golf education and instruction methodology. His research interests span multiple dimensions of golf education, including golf instruction techniques, golf course management, golf psychology, technological innovations in golf training, turfgrass management, and the business aspects of the golf industry. Turner has demonstrated particular expertise in the psychological components of golf performance and the application of modern technology to traditional golf instruction. Turner's scholarly output demonstrates consistent engagement with contemporary issues in golf education, with a focus on practical applications for both amateur and professional golfers. His work often addresses the intersection of traditional golf instruction with modern technological advancements, examining how digital tools and platforms can enhance learning outcomes in golf education. Over 165 published articles on golf instruction and education Specialized expertise in online golf instruction methodologies Focus on practical applications for golfers of all skill levels Contributions to golf business and management education As Director of Online Golf Instruction, Turner oversees the development and delivery of golf education programs through digital platforms, adapting traditional golf instruction to modern educational technologies and learning preferences. His work bridges the gap between academic golf education and practical industry applications, making him a significant contributor to contemporary golf pedagogy.

Kevin KenworthyView profile

Professor

• Turfgrass Breeding
• Plant Genetics
• Forage Crops
• +3 more

Kevin Kenworthy is a Professor and Graduate Coordinator in Plant Breeding & Molecular Genetics at the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. His research focuses on turfgrass and forage crop improvement through breeding programs addressing drought tolerance, salinity resistance, and sustainable management practices. He has led collaborative multi-state projects and secured significant grant funding including Specialty Crops Research Initiatives. Education: Ph.D. in Crop Science, Breeding and Genetics, Oklahoma State University, 2004 M.S. in Crop Science, Breeding and Genetics, Texas Tech University, 1996 B.S. in Agronomy, Texas Tech University, 1994 His research integrates molecular genetics with field-based breeding to develop improved turfgrass and forage cultivars. Current investigations include drought/salinity tolerance mechanisms, irrigation optimization, nutrient management, and reducing environmental impacts of turf systems. Recent publications demonstrate consistent focus on enhancing turfgrass resilience through advanced breeding techniques, physiological screening, and multi-environment evaluations. Research trends show increasing emphasis on climate adaptation, resource efficiency, and ecosystem services of turf landscapes. Awards and Honors: Award of Merit, Turfgrass Producers of Florida (2018) NACTA Educator Award (2017) Outstanding Senior in Agronomy (1994-1995) Dr. Kenworthy has advised 42 graduate students as chair/co-chair or committee member for PhD and MS candidates. His grant portfolio exceeds $872,000 including USDA-SCRI projects and industry collaborations. He established the Turfgrass Breeding Program at UF in partnership with Florida Foundation Seed Producers and Sod Solutions.

John N. Trey Rogers IIIView profile

Professor

• Turfgrass Science
• Sports Turf Management
• Golf Course Renovation
• +4 more

John N. Trey Rogers III is a Professor in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University (MSU), part of the College of Agriculture & Natural Resources. He holds a Ph.D. (1988, Agronomy, Penn State), M.S. (1985, Agronomy, University of Arkansas), and B.S. (1982, Agronomy, University of Arkansas). His research focuses on turfgrass establishment, sports field renovation, and soil modification for golf courses and athletic fields. Teaching responsibilities include courses such as Turfgrass Management, Performance Turf Design, and capstone classes synthesizing field practices. Over 33 years at MSU, he has advised over 1,100 students, many of whom now lead academic and industry roles. Notable former students include John Stier (Assoc. Dean, U. Tennessee) and Jason Henderson (Assoc. Professor, U. Connecticut). Rogers has led high-profile projects, including the 1994 World Cup turf system at Pontiac Silverdome, 2004/2008 Olympics consultations, and current stadium projects in Nashville and St. Louis. His research emphasizes practical solutions for turfgrass challenges, with over 230 publications and two U.S. patents. He consults on turf systems for professional sports venues and Thoroughbred racetracks like Keeneland and Churchill Downs. His recent efforts include preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, focusing on retrofitting stadiums to meet FIFA standards. He collaborates with teams like Jim Crum (soil science) to integrate soil and grass systems. Outside academia, Rogers remains passionate about golf, travel, and family.

Grady MillerView profile

Professor

• Turfgrass Science
• Irrigation Management
• Soil Microbiology
• +3 more

Grady Miller is an ENVU Distinguished Professor of Sustainability & Extension Specialist in Turfgrass Management at North Carolina State University's Department of Crop & Soil Sciences within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. from Auburn University and has over 20 years of experience in turfgrass research, education, and extension. His work focuses on improving turfgrass quality through integrated management practices, irrigation optimization, and plant breeding for drought and shade tolerance. Research Interests: Turfgrass microbiology and soil health Climate-resilient turfgrass cultivar development Irrigation efficiency and water resource management Athletic field and golf course maintenance Publications Highlight: Recent work emphasizes microbial community responses to environmental stressors and advancements in bermudagrass/zoysiagrass breeding programs. His research has directly informed best practices for professional turf managers across the U.S. Awards: Recognized as a Fellow of the Agronomy Society of America and inducted into NC State's Academy of Outstanding Extension Faculty for impactful outreach programs. Teaching: Instructs graduate and undergraduate courses on applied research methods and turfgrass cultural systems, emphasizing hands-on field experiences. Extension Work: Leads statewide initiatives promoting sustainable turf management practices through fact sheets, workshops, and collaborative projects with industry stakeholders.

Mike PaceView profile

Academic

• Horticulture
• Agronomy
• Crop Management
• +5 more

Mike Pace serves as an Extension Professor in Horticulture & Agronomy and Director of Box Elder County at Utah State University's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. With over 20 years of service, he has established himself as a leading agricultural extension specialist in northern Utah. MS in Extension Education, Utah State University (1995) BS in Agricultural Education (Animal Science), Utah State University (1993) Pace's research interests span horticulture, agronomy, crop management, soil science, and pest control, with particular focus on Utah's unique agricultural challenges. His work addresses practical farming issues including safflower production, cover cropping, snow mold management, grape cultivation, and soil fertility in arid environments. Through USU Extension, he has developed numerous educational resources including fact sheets, enterprise budgets, and demonstration projects that directly benefit Utah farmers and growers. His publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to agricultural knowledge, with emphasis on practical applications for Utah producers. Recent work focuses on cover crop interseeding, waterway management, and crop-specific economic analyses. Pace has received multiple awards recognizing his service and contributions to agricultural extension, including the Distinguished Service Award from the National Association for County Agricultural Agents and the Spirit of Extension Award from USU. Certificate of Service, 15 years of Service (2013) Distinguished Service Award (2012) Spirit of Extension Award (2012) Program of Excellence Award (2010) As County Director, Pace oversees extension programming across multiple domains including agriculture, home and community education, and 4-H youth development. His leadership has strengthened Box Elder County's agricultural community through research-based education and practical problem-solving approaches tailored to local conditions.

Richard CooperView profile

Professor

• Turfgrass Management
• Agronomy
• Soil Science
• +3 more

Richard Cooper is a Professor in Turfgrass Science at North Carolina State University, listed under Retired Faculty. His 50% teaching/50% research appointment includes instructing courses like CS 210 (Lawns and Sports Turf) and CS 400 (Turf Cultural Systems), delivered via distance education. He advises students in turfgrass management programs and facilitates internships. Research focuses on practical turfgrass management: non-nutritional growth enhancers, soil microbial dynamics, and distance learning applications. Key themes include herbicide residue effects, salt tolerance in bermudagrass, and fungicide impacts on turf quality. His work bridges agronomy, plant physiology, and environmental science. Publications (1998-2018) emphasize turfgrass physiology, pesticide management, and cultivar performance. Notable studies investigate humic acid effects on bentgrass and regional adaptation of Cynodon spp. in the Southeastern U.S. Teaching innovations include integrating digital platforms for turf education, reflecting his dual focus on practical field management and academic delivery.

Fred YelvertonView profile

Professor

• Weed Science
• Turfgrass Management
• Lawn Maintenance
• +3 more

Fred Yelverton is a Professor in the Horticultural Science department at North Carolina State University , specializing in turfgrass and weed management. His work focuses on practical applications for lawn maintenance and chemical control of invasive species. Key research areas: Turfgrass Science, Herbicide Application, and Landscape Engineering Contributions to 20+ extension publications His publications demonstrate expertise in: Herbicide tolerance in grasses Calibration of agricultural equipment Integrated pest management for turf

Nikolaos NtoulasView profile

Assistant Professor

• Green Roof Systems
• Turfgrass Science
• Urban Horticulture
• +5 more

Nikolaos Ntoulas is an Assistant Professor in Floriculture and Urban Horticulture at the Agricultural University of Athens. He specializes in green roof systems, particularly their establishment and management in semi-arid climates, turfgrass science, living walls, and the use of native plant species for urban greening. His research integrates plant physiology, substrate optimization, and sustainable agricultural practices. His academic affiliation includes the Laboratory of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture at the Agricultural University of Athens. He actively contributes to scientific journals as a reviewer and editorial board member. Notable research interests include drought-tolerant plant species, saline irrigation solutions, and eco-friendly weed control methods for archaeological sites. He has led projects on green roof hydrological modeling, dielectric sensor applications for soil monitoring, and the cultivation of aromatic/medicinal plants in urban environments. Recent work focuses on substrate depth optimization for Mediterranean species, seawater irrigation feasibility, and integrating sensor technology for precision agriculture. His research often addresses climate adaptation strategies for urban ecosystems through interdisciplinary approaches combining agronomy, environmental science, and engineering principles.

Terri BilleisenView profile

Researcher

• Entomology
• Pest Management
• Turfgrass Science
• +3 more

Terri Billeisen is a researcher in the Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology at NC State University. She specializes in turfgrass pest management, focusing on insect pests such as white grubs, chinch bugs, fall armyworms, and fire ants, with an emphasis on sustainable and organic control methods. Her work includes developing practical guides and calendars for lawn maintenance across various grass types, including tall fescue, Bermudagrass, zoysiagrass, and St. Augustinegrass. Her recent projects include authoring comprehensive field guides on arthropod pests of North Carolina turf and exploring the impact of wildflower habitats on pollinator communities in turfgrass systems. She collaborates with extension specialists like Rick Brandenburg and Marissa Cole to provide evidence-based pest control recommendations for homeowners, landscapers, and professional turf managers. Terri contributes extensively to NC State Extension Publications, delivering actionable insights on pest identification, sampling techniques, and integrated pest management. Her research bridges academic entomology with real-world turfgrass maintenance challenges, particularly in urban and agricultural contexts.

Michelle DaCostaView profile

Professor

• Turfgrass Physiology
• Plant Stress Physiology
• Abiotic Stress Tolerance
• +7 more

Michelle DaCosta is a Professor of Turfgrass Physiology and Program Coordinator for Turfgrass and Applied Plant & Soil Sciences programs at the Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts Amherst. She is actively involved in research, teaching, and program leadership, with a strong focus on plant responses to environmental stress. Education: Ph.D. in Plant Biology, Rutgers University (2006) B.S. in Biology, Rutgers University (2000) Her research centers on physiological mechanisms of plant adaptation to abiotic stresses such as drought, temperature extremes, and climate change, using perennial grasses—particularly turfgrass species—as a model system. She investigates traits and stress response pathways that confer tolerance, bridging fundamental plant biology with applied turf management. Her work supports sustainable practices by guiding species and cultivar selection and reducing reliance on water, fertilizers, and pesticides. The selected publications (2010–2014) demonstrate a consistent research trajectory in turfgrass stress physiology, with emphasis on cold acclimation, carbohydrate metabolism, antioxidant responses, and cross-tolerance mechanisms. These studies span molecular, biochemical, and whole-plant levels, contributing to both academic knowledge and industry applications. Scientific Awards: No awards listed in the provided text. Dr. DaCosta advises on sustainable turf management and teaches courses such as Turfgrass Physiology, Introductory Plant Physiology, and Plant Stress Physiology. She co-teaches the Turfgrass Science and Management Seminar and contributes to the University of Massachusetts Winter School for Turf Managers. Although specific grants or students are not listed, her publication record and program coordination role indicate active mentorship and research leadership. She is affiliated with a research lab focused on stress physiology in turfgrass systems, contributing to both academic training and industry outreach.

Joby M. Prince CzarneckiView profile

Academic

• Geospatial technologies
• Precision agriculture
• Remote sensing
• +3 more

Dr. Joby M. Prince Czarnecki is a faculty member at Mississippi State University, affiliated with the Geosystems Research Institute (GRI). His work focuses on leveraging geospatial technologies to enhance agricultural sustainability and environmental conservation, particularly in the Mississippi Delta region. Research Interests: Application of geospatial technologies in precision agriculture Remote sensing and UAV-based monitoring systems Conservation practices to reduce environmental impact Soil health and nutrient management Crop yield prediction and sustainability metrics His research integrates advanced remote sensing techniques, including multispectral and hyperspectral imaging, with machine learning algorithms to address challenges in modern agriculture. He has extensively studied the effects of cover crops, irrigation management, and conservation practices on soil health and crop productivity. Dr. Czarnecki has authored over 105 publications, with recent works focusing on remote sensing applications in soybean and corn production, nitrous oxide emissions from agricultural systems, and the use of UAVs for precision agriculture. His collaborative efforts span multiple disciplines, including soil science, environmental engineering, and agricultural economics.

• Forest Regeneration
• Seed and Seedling Biology
• Plant-microbe Interaction
• +5 more

Mehrdad Zarafshar is a Senior Lecturer in Forest Regeneration at the Department of Forestry and Wood Technology, Faculty of Technology, Linnaeus University. His research focuses on integrating cutting-edge techniques such as seedling fertilization and plant-microbe interactions to enhance seedling vitality and resilience in plantation settings, establishing foundations for sustainable forest ecosystems. Dr. Zarafshar's primary research interests include: Forest regeneration techniques and optimization Seed and seedling biology, particularly stress physiology Plant-microbe interactions in forest ecosystems Soil biology and its relationship with forest management practices The impact of forest fertilization on soil microbial communities Soil health indicators in semi-arid environments His extensive publication record reveals a research trajectory deeply engaged with understanding soil-forest interactions across diverse ecosystems. Recent work spans semi-arid woodlands with wild pistachio trees, mangrove ecosystems along the Persian Gulf, and managed forest stands in Sweden. His research consistently examines how tree density, stand composition, and human interventions affect soil characteristics and microbial activities. Notably, his innovative work on Trichoderma applications bridges forest microbiology with practical turfgrass management solutions. Dr. Zarafshar currently leads two significant research projects: 'Soil microbes as key players – decoding the impact of forest fertilisation on their communities' investigating microbial responses to fertilization practices 'Decomposition, respiration and nitrogen mineralization in response to forest thinning – a Tranemåla perspective' examining short-term soil biogeochemical responses to thinning operations He is actively involved with the Forest Management research group at Linnaeus University, which addresses sustainable forest use considering economic, social, and ecological dimensions. Additionally, he participates in 'The Bridge,' a strategic partnership between Södra, IKEA, and Linnaeus University that unites academic research with industry applications to drive innovation in forestry and wood sustainability.