What happens when Ph.D. candidates, master’s students, undergrads and interns all share the same greenhouse? You get a powerful, layered research environment that grows more than just plants.

In this episode of Inside IALR, we explore how the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Innovation Center is not only advancing sustainable agriculture but also training the next generation of researchers and industry leaders. A partnership between IALR and Virginia Tech, the CEA Innovation Center blends hands-on research, mentorship and workforce development. 

You’ll hear how students at four different educational levels are conducting applied research on plant disease management, beneficial microbes and nutrient optimization. From mentoring interns to designing dissertation-level experiments, these students are learning and growing. 

🎙 Guests:

• Dr. Kaylee South – Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, Virginia Tech (stationed full-time at IALR)
• Colin Fite – M.S. Student, Virginia Tech
• Praveen Gajula – Ph.D. Student, Virginia Tech

🔍 Topics Covered:

• What Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) is and why it matters
• How beneficial microbes are being tested in vertical farms and greenhouses
• The role of students in maintaining IALR’s demonstration farm
• Mentorship across education levels—from intern to Ph.D.
• Career goals of students entering the CEA industry
• Opportunities for students to join the CEA Innovation Center

Whether you're an educator, student, grower or just curious about the future of agtech, this episode offers a glimpse into how research, education and industry come together under one greenhouse roof.

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves as a regional catalyst for economic transformation in Southern Virginia. Our services, programs and offerings are diverse, impactful and far reaching.

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