Researcher Bridges Science and Soil for Smarter Farming

By Scout Nelson

In Nebraska, Adam Leise is redefining how research and farming work together. Managing his family farm in Hartington while serving as Nebraska Extension’s On-Farm Research Network manager, Leise brings data and fieldwork together to help farmers make smarter, more sustainable decisions.

Leise holds degrees in agricultural economics and agronomy from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he now works full-time. His role involves designing on-farm trials, collaborating with educators and researchers, securing grants, and analyzing data to strengthen farm management practices.

“Farming makes me a better researcher, and research makes me a better farmer,” said Leise, emphasizing the balance between economics and agronomy. His insight helps farmers understand how profitability and sustainability can work hand in hand.

Through his leadership, Leise supports projects statewide, ensuring that research remains practical and impactful. He also represents Nebraska Extension at field events, translating academic findings into strategies that improve soil health, water quality, and resource management for future generations.

Recently, Leise became an Extension Educator Department Affiliate, expanding his collaboration with the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture. He’s also helping create a student pathway program that offers internships, real-world data projects, and experience in drone piloting and imagery analysis.

“Those focus areas are booming right now,” said Leise. “The more hands-on experience we can give students in real-life scenarios, the better.”

Photo Credit: gettyimages-nes