By Scout Nelson
Esha Kaler, a graduate student at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, has been named a 2025–2028 Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) Fellow. She will receive full funding to pursue her PhD in agricultural entomology.
Kaler recently completed her master’s degree, where she studied resistance to sugarcane aphids in perennial sorghum. With the fellowship, she will expand her research to compare perennial and annual sorghum resistance to more pest species.
“I know that [FFAR] is a great professional experience that can help [me] grow to [my] best and can help me make great connections,” Kaler said. “There are 25 to 30 students from around the U.S. who are going to come together to share ideas and it’s students from pathology, agronomy, animal science, food science, and so it’s a great way to learn.”
The FFAR Fellowship is awarded to future scientific leaders who focus on solving real-world agricultural challenges. It offers three years of funding, mentoring, and professional development. Her fellowship is co-funded by the Land Institute, which promotes sustainable crop practices.
“[FFAR] has four priority areas,” Kaler said. “We’re going to be working on cultivating thriving production systems, sustaining vibrant ecosystems, and strengthening the scientific workforce.”
Originally from Punjab, India, Kaler found a strong academic and research community at Nebraska. Under the guidance of her adviser, she presented her research at major conferences and published in several scientific journals.
“Dr. Louis is a great adviser and mentor. His way of mentoring makes you go deeper and be inquisitive about things. It’s incredible,” Kaler said.
“To be honest, this was my only Ph.D. application,” Kaler added. “God always has a plan for you, you just never know.”
Photo Credit:nebraska-extenstion
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Sorghum