CSUMB Biology Student, Josue Duque, testifies on the importance of research in the CSU System
Sacramento, CA, June 28, 2018 – California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) Biology Student Josue Duque has been conducting research in sustainable agriculture for the past year. He has been working with Stefanie Kortman in the laboratory of Dr. Arlene Haffa, an Associate Professor in the School of Natural Sciences, in collaboration with Forrest Melton, a NASA Senior Research Scientist. The research team is seeking to quantify the environmental and economic benefits of on-farm best management practices for irrigation and fertilizer use.
On June 28th he spoke of the importance of this research on his own academic and professional development at a California State University research briefing to legislative staff at the state capitol. The primary goal of the briefing was to connect research as a “high-impact” practice to the CSU Graduation Initiative 2025. It also offered legislative staff an opportunity to gain a better understanding of research across the CSU, specifically its connection to local communities and our focus on undergraduate research. He was one of five CSU students selected to delivered 5 minute presentations highlighting research conducted, career goals and objectives and how research opportunities contribute to careers and the research industry. Research topics discussed were energy and sustainability, water, agriculture, transportation and healthcare. California State University Chancellor’s Office executive leadership guest speakers, Nathan Evans, Chief of Staff & Senior Advisor, and Ganesh Raman, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Research, also spoke at this event.
“The opportunity to participate in research has been an experience like no other. I am glad to have been given the chance to advocate for the importance of undergraduate research in the CSU System.” Josue Duque