Samuel Koeshall | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Samuel Koeshall | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

MSU Bozeman, United States

Samuel Thomas Koeshall is a dedicated researcher and doctoral candidate in Ecology and Environmental Science at Montana State University. With a strong academic foundation in Plant Sciences and Agronomy, Samuel’s work has consistently addressed critical challenges in sustainable agriculture, particularly in semi-arid and dryland cropping systems. His professional journey spans academia and industry, combining applied field research with laboratory-based investigations. He has led and contributed to several high-impact research projects funded by competitive grants, including USDA-ARS and SARE. His focus on field peas, rotational cropping systems, and intra-field protein variability has resulted in multiple peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals. Samuel has also earned recognition through awards from the Tri-Societies for his excellence in research presentation. His industry experience with organizations such as Land O’ Lakes and Farm Credit Mid-America complements his academic expertise, equipping him with practical insights into crop management and production systems. Passionate about advancing agricultural practices, Samuel continually strives to improve the productivity, resilience, and sustainability of cropping systems in North America. With a strong publication record, grant success, and hands-on teaching experience, he is well-positioned to make long-term contributions to agricultural science, education, and industry engagement.

Professional Profile

Education

Samuel Koeshall holds a progressive and well-rounded academic background that underpins his current research in Ecology and Environmental Science. He began his higher education journey at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Sciences in May 2017, graduating Cum Laude. This undergraduate foundation was marked by active engagement in student mentorship and research, including his roles as a lab technician and undergraduate teaching assistant. He then pursued a Master of Science in Agronomy at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, graduating in December 2019. During his time there, he served as a Graduate Research Assistant and contributed to essential work in dryland cropping systems and legume integration. Currently, Samuel is a Ph.D. candidate at Montana State University – Bozeman, focusing on Ecology and Environmental Science. His doctoral research explores environmental factors affecting pea protein variability and sustainable cropping strategies in Montana’s semi-arid systems. This academic path reflects a clear trajectory focused on solving practical agricultural challenges through empirical research, cross-institutional learning, and regional field applications. His academic excellence has been further reinforced by scholarships, poster presentation awards, and key roles in large-scale funded projects.

Professional Experience

Samuel Koeshall’s professional journey encompasses a diverse blend of academic appointments and industry internships that collectively demonstrate his strength in both theoretical knowledge and applied agricultural practice. At Montana State University – Bozeman, he has served as a Research Associate and Ph.D. student since January 2020. His role includes field-based research, grant writing, and mentoring undergraduates. Prior to this, he was a Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (2017–2019), where he focused on rotational cropping systems, field peas, and sustainable agronomy. At the University of Tennessee – Knoxville, he served in multiple roles from 2013 to 2017, including College of Agriculture Ambassador, Undergraduate TA, and Lab Technician. His industry experience is equally impressive, having interned with leading organizations like Land O’ Lakes – Winfield United, Farm Credit Mid-America, Bell Crop Consulting, and Masters Choice Seed Corn. These internships provided him hands-on experience in crop scouting, data analysis, seed trials, GPS soil mapping, and agribusiness development. His exposure to both academic and commercial settings has equipped him with a robust, application-oriented skill set. This multi-faceted background allows Samuel to contribute holistically to agriculture through research, teaching, and industry collaborations.

Research Interests

Samuel Koeshall’s research interests lie at the intersection of agronomy, crop science, soil science, and environmental sustainability. His current doctoral research at Montana State University focuses on understanding the environmental controls on pea protein variability within dryland cropping systems. He is particularly interested in the rotational benefits of legumes, especially field peas, as sustainable alternatives to chemical summer fallow. His work integrates ecological principles with agricultural practices to develop cropping systems that are both resilient and productive in semi-arid environments. Samuel also investigates intra-field variability, precision agriculture techniques, and the long-term impacts of crop diversification on soil health and crop yield. Earlier in his career, he contributed significantly to projects evaluating planting date and seeding rate of field peas in Nebraska’s High Plains, as well as optimizing lentil yields through agronomic factors such as rolling and seeding rates. His broader interests include sustainable intensification, cover cropping strategies, and agroecological resilience under changing climatic conditions. Samuel’s research not only contributes to academic knowledge but also provides practical guidelines for farmers, agronomists, and policy-makers aiming to promote sustainable food systems. His work continues to evolve toward building adaptive and scalable solutions in agronomic research.

Research Skills

Samuel Koeshall possesses a strong arsenal of research skills that span both field-based agronomy and laboratory-based analysis. His technical proficiency includes designing field experiments, conducting soil and plant sampling, managing large datasets, and performing advanced statistical analyses. He is skilled in the use of GPS mapping for soil variability assessments and remote sensing technologies to evaluate crop health and yield predictions. Samuel has a solid command of scientific tools for measuring protein content, nutrient cycling, and crop physiological responses under various environmental conditions. His experience with grant proposal writing, particularly for USDA-ARS and SARE-funded projects, highlights his capability in formulating research objectives, timelines, and budgets. He has served as the lead investigator in multiple research initiatives, managing tasks such as experimental design, data interpretation, and dissemination of findings through publications and conferences. His teaching roles further reflect his ability to communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences. Samuel’s experience in collaborative research, spanning university departments and industry partners, underscores his ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary environments. His research skills are bolstered by his adaptability and hands-on experience in both academic and commercial agricultural settings, making him a competent and reliable researcher in the agronomic sciences.

Awards and Honors

Samuel Koeshall has been recognized multiple times for his research excellence and academic leadership. Among his most notable achievements are his awards from the Tri-Societies Annual Meetings (Agronomy, Crop Science, and Soil Science Societies of America). In 2018, he won third place overall for his poster presentation on the integration of yellow field pea in semi-arid dryland cropping systems. The following year, in 2019, he achieved first place for his presentation on the rotational benefits of replacing chemical summer fallow with field pea. These accolades highlight his ability to clearly communicate scientific findings and underscore the importance of his research. In addition, he graduated Cum Laude from the University of Tennessee – Knoxville, a testament to his academic excellence. Samuel has also received competitive research grants including the USDA-ARS PCHI award and WSARE Graduate Student Grant, each of which recognizes both the merit of his research proposals and his leadership potential in agricultural research. His teaching roles and peer-reviewed publications further contribute to his distinguished academic profile. These honors not only acknowledge his past achievements but also point to a promising future in sustainable agronomy and applied ecological research.

Conclusion

Samuel Thomas Koeshall exemplifies the qualities of a well-rounded researcher poised to make a lasting impact on sustainable agriculture and ecological research. With a strong academic foundation, field and laboratory research expertise, and practical experience in the agricultural industry, he bridges the gap between science and application. His research contributions in dryland cropping systems, particularly regarding the integration of field peas and precision farming, address pressing global challenges related to food security, soil health, and climate resilience. His ability to secure competitive funding and publish in respected journals demonstrates both his intellectual rigor and research competence. His accolades from national conferences and consistent engagement with academic and farming communities underline his dedication to knowledge dissemination and collaborative growth. Samuel’s career trajectory reflects a commitment to not only advancing agricultural research but also translating findings into actionable practices for farmers and stakeholders. With ongoing doctoral research and an expanding network of professional collaborations, he is well-positioned to lead future initiatives that promote sustainable and efficient agricultural systems. He is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award and a promising contributor to the field for years to come.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Inoculant and Fertilizer Effects on Lentil in the US Northern Great Plains

  • Journal: Agronomy Journal

  • Publication Date: March 2024

2. Replacing Fallow with Field Pea in Wheat Production Systems Across Western Nebraska

  • Journal: Agronomy Journal

  • Publication Date: November 2022

3. Planting Date and Seeding Rate of Field Pea in the Semi‐Arid High Plains of Nebraska

  • Journal: Agronomy Journal

  • Publication Date: March 2021

Qingyou Liu | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Shen Awards

Prof. Qingyou Liu | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Foshan University, China

Prof. Qingyou Liu is a distinguished researcher with an extensive background in animal genomics, microbiome studies, and evolutionary biology. With over 220 published papers in top-tier journals such as Nature Communications, National Science Review, Advanced Science, Microbiome, Molecular Biology and Evolution, and Journal of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, he has made significant contributions to understanding genome structures, microbial ecosystems, and livestock evolution. His work on whole-genome sequencing, microbiome composition, and gene expression patterns has advanced the field of veterinary and agricultural sciences. Prof. Liu has collaborated internationally, working with researchers across multiple disciplines to enhance genomic and microbiome research. His contributions are highly cited, reflecting the impact of his findings on global scientific knowledge. He has been instrumental in pioneering studies on buffalo and goat genomics, contributing to livestock breeding and conservation strategies. His research continues to shape modern approaches to genetic mapping, microbiome interaction, and evolutionary biology. Through his leadership in research projects and academic collaborations, Prof. Liu remains at the forefront of scientific innovation in animal sciences. His dedication to interdisciplinary research and commitment to advancing genomics and microbiome studies solidify his position as a leading scientist in his field.

Professional Profile

Education

Prof. Qingyou Liu obtained his academic training in animal genetics, microbiology, and molecular biology. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, laying the foundation for his interest in genetic research. He then pursued a Master’s degree specializing in livestock genetics, where he focused on the genetic traits and evolutionary characteristics of domesticated species. His doctoral studies further expanded his expertise in genomics, microbiome interactions, and evolutionary biology, with a particular focus on ruminant species. During his Ph.D., he conducted extensive research on the genome sequencing of buffalo and goats, contributing significantly to the understanding of their genetic adaptations. To further enhance his expertise, Prof. Liu undertook postdoctoral training at a leading international research institution, where he collaborated on genomic studies and advanced bioinformatics analysis. His academic journey has been marked by rigorous research and specialization in animal biotechnology, genome mapping, and microbiome interactions. His educational background, combined with advanced training in bioinformatics, molecular genetics, and microbiology, has equipped him with the skills necessary to lead groundbreaking research in animal science. Through continuous learning and specialization, Prof. Liu has established himself as a prominent figure in genomics and microbiome research.

Professional Experience

Prof. Qingyou Liu has held various academic and research positions throughout his career, contributing to his extensive experience in genomics and microbiome studies. He currently serves as a professor at a leading research university, where he leads genomic research on livestock species. Prior to this, he worked as a senior researcher in a top-tier biological research institute, where he focused on animal genomics and microbiome interactions. His role involved leading large-scale genome sequencing projects and mentoring young researchers in the field. Additionally, Prof. Liu has served as a principal investigator on multiple international research collaborations, working with experts from various institutions worldwide. He has been actively involved in organizing conferences, workshops, and academic forums related to animal genetics and microbiome research. His contributions extend beyond academia, as he has also collaborated with agricultural industries and biotechnology firms to apply genomic research in livestock breeding programs. Over the years, he has successfully secured research funding from national and international scientific organizations, supporting his innovative projects. His professional journey showcases his commitment to advancing research in animal genetics, microbiome science, and evolutionary biology, reinforcing his status as a key figure in the scientific community.

Research Interests

Prof. Qingyou Liu’s research interests primarily focus on animal genomics, microbiome studies, and evolutionary biology. His work explores the genetic foundations of domesticated species, with a particular emphasis on buffalo and goat populations. One of his key research areas is whole-genome sequencing, where he investigates genetic diversity, evolutionary adaptations, and gene expression patterns in livestock. He is also deeply interested in microbiome interactions, studying how microbial communities influence animal health, digestion, and productivity. His research extends to the role of phage genomes in ruminant microbiomes, uncovering how viral ecosystems contribute to microbiome stability. Additionally, Prof. Liu explores chromosome-level genome mapping, enhancing our understanding of recombination processes in animal genetics. His work contributes to livestock breeding, conservation biology, and precision agriculture by identifying genetic markers for disease resistance and improved productivity. He is also interested in bioinformatics and computational genomics, utilizing advanced data analysis techniques to decode complex genetic information. Through his research, he aims to bridge the gap between genetics, microbiome science, and animal husbandry, offering valuable insights for sustainable livestock management. His interdisciplinary approach ensures that his work remains relevant and impactful in both scientific and agricultural communities.

Research Skills

Prof. Qingyou Liu possesses a wide range of research skills, making him a leader in genomics and microbiome studies. He has expertise in whole-genome sequencing, allowing him to analyze genetic diversity and evolutionary traits in livestock species. His proficiency in bioinformatics and computational biology enables him to process and interpret complex genomic data, leading to breakthrough discoveries in animal genetics. He is skilled in microbiome analysis, using metagenomics and microbial culturing techniques to study microbial ecosystems in animal digestive tracts. His expertise in molecular biology techniques, such as PCR, gene expression profiling, and DNA sequencing, further enhances his research capabilities. Prof. Liu is also experienced in comparative genomics, analyzing evolutionary relationships among species through genetic data. Additionally, he has strong skills in statistical genomics, applying mathematical models to study gene interactions and inheritance patterns. His leadership in large-scale research projects showcases his project management and scientific writing skills, as evidenced by his numerous high-impact publications. He is also adept at collaborative research, working with interdisciplinary teams to advance genomic studies. His diverse skill set allows him to make significant contributions to livestock genetics, microbiome science, and precision breeding strategies.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Qingyou Liu has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to genomics and microbiome research. He has been honored with the Best Researcher Award for his groundbreaking work in animal genetics and evolutionary biology. His research achievements have earned him national and international recognition, including prestigious academic awards from scientific organizations in genetics, microbiology, and veterinary sciences. He has received funding grants from leading research foundations, further demonstrating the significance of his work. His high-impact publications have also been recognized with Excellence in Research Awards from various academic institutions. Additionally, Prof. Liu has been invited as a keynote speaker at global conferences on genomics and microbiome studies, further highlighting his influence in the scientific community. He has been awarded membership in esteemed scientific societies, acknowledging his contributions to the advancement of genetic research. His dedication to scientific innovation and mentorship has also been recognized through awards for academic leadership. These accolades reflect his commitment to pushing the boundaries of genomics and microbiome research, reinforcing his status as a leading scientist in the field.

Conclusion

Prof. Qingyou Liu’s extensive contributions to genomics, microbiome science, and evolutionary biology establish him as a leading researcher in his field. With over 220 publications in top-tier journals, his work has significantly advanced the understanding of genetic diversity, microbiome interactions, and evolutionary processes in livestock. His research has not only expanded academic knowledge but also contributed to practical applications in animal breeding and conservation. His expertise in genome sequencing, microbiome analysis, and bioinformatics ensures that his work remains at the forefront of scientific innovation. His ability to lead international collaborations and secure prestigious research funding further highlights his impact. Prof. Liu’s achievements have been recognized through numerous awards and honors, affirming his role as a key figure in animal genetics and microbiome research. While he continues to make groundbreaking discoveries, expanding his outreach efforts and industry collaborations could further enhance the real-world impact of his work. Overall, his dedication to scientific excellence, interdisciplinary research, and knowledge dissemination solidifies his position as a highly respected and influential scientist in the global research community.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Multi-Omics Sequencing Dissects the Atlas of Seminal Plasma Exosomes from Semen Containing Low or High Rates of Sperm with Cytoplasmic Droplets
    Authors: Zilu Zhang, Xiaoxian Xu, Fumei Chen, Qingyou Liu, Zhili Li, Xibang Zheng, Yunxiang Zhao
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Role of Milk Intake in Modulating Serum Lipid Profiles and Gut Metabolites
    Authors: Ting Xu, Chang Zhang, Yufeng Yang, Liang Huang, Qingyou Liu, Ling Li, Qingkun Zeng, Zhipeng Li
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Novel Insight into the Composition Differences Between Buffalo and Holstein Milk and Potential Anti-Inflammation and Antioxidant Effect on Caco-2 Cells
    Authors: Luyao Wang, Xinyue Hu, Jiaqi Jiang, Dong Wang, Chaobin Qin, Ling Li, Deshun Shi, Qingyou Liu, Jian Wang, Hui Li et al.
    Year: 2024

  • Title: In Silico Analysis: Molecular Characterization and Evolutionary Study of CLCN Gene Family in Buffalo
    Authors: Yiheng Fu, Muhammad Farhan Khan, Yingqi Wang, Shakeela Parveen, Mehwish Sultana, Qingyou Liu, Laiba Shafique
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Meta-Genomic Analysis of Different Bacteria and Their Genomes Found in Raw Buffalo Milk Obtained in Various Farms Using Different Milking Methods
    Authors: Ling Li, Wenhao Miao, Zhipeng Li, Li Huang, Enghuan Hau, Muhammad Farhan Khan, Qingyou Liu, Qingkun Zeng, Kuiqing Cui
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Unveiling the Role of circRBBP7 in Myoblast Proliferation and Differentiation: A Novel Regulator of Muscle Development
    Authors: Yufeng Yang, Kongwei Huang, Hancai Jiang, Shuwan Wang, Xiaoxian Xu, Yang Liu, Qingyou Liu, Mingsong Wei, Zhipeng Li
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Construction and Identification of a Breast Bioreactor for Human-Derived Hypoglycemic Protein Amylin
    Authors: Kongwei Huang, Xiuying Yan, Zhipeng Li, Fuhang Liu, Kuiqing Cui, Qingyou Liu
    Year: 2024

  • Title: An Effective Strategy for Assembling the Sex-Limited Chromosome
    Authors: Xiao-Bo Wang, Hong-Wei Lu, Qing-You Liu, A-Lun Li, Hong-Ling Zhou, Yong Zhang, Tian-Qi Zhu, Jue Ruan
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Transcriptome Analyses Reveal Transcriptional Profiles of Horse Oocytes Before and After In Vitro Maturation
    Authors: Xinhui Song, Hancai Jiang, Peiru Lv, Kuiqing Cui, Qingyou Liu, Shan Yin, Hongbo Liu, Zhipeng Li
    Year: 2023

  • Title: Chromosome-Level Genome and Recombination Map of the Male Buffalo
    Authors: Qingyou Liu, Hui Li, Jue Ruan, Deshun Shi, Xiaobo Wang, Kuiqing Cui, Xier Luo, Tong Feng, Zhipeng Li, Dongdong Wu
    Year: 2023