n.c. plant sciences initiative

a photograph of a person working in a greenhouse where tomatoes are growing

Mar 20, 2026

Fast-Tracking Agricultural Tech With North Carolina Growers

Up to 40% of global food crops are lost to pests and pathogens annually. Verdia Diagnostics, a new startup company launched through NC State University, aims to reduce disease-related crop loss significantly. They are beta-testing sensors in commercial greenhouses in North Carolina in an effort to quickly make the technology available to growers.

A photograph of three students in lab coats examining a plant.

Feb 2, 2026

Inspiring Students to Pursue Agricultural Careers

Gaining experience in a laboratory or learning to use cutting-edge technology is often reserved for students pursuing master’s and advanced degrees. The N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative (PSI) is helping change that. The institute, which connects growers with researchers, partners with North Carolina high schools. It also provides undergraduates across many disciplines with career-relevant opportunities.

A graphic & data visualization of green and red tomatoes cut in half.

Sep 9, 2024

Precision Sensors: An Innovative Future for Agriculture

Interdisciplinary teams at the N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative are innovating sensors to help farmers face emerging plant diseases and climate change.

An image of a piece of advanced technology that looks like a brain.

Jul 11, 2024

AI Powers Interdisciplinary Innovation

At NC State University, interdisciplinary teams are leveraging AI to revolutionize research in agriculture, chemical engineering, education and more.