b'Matthew RunyonUniversity of IllinoisRunyon, a fifth-year Ph.D. candidate in plant breeding and genetics is making strides in maize research. Hailing from Noble, Illinois, his innovative work focuses on optimizing canopy architecture by altering leaf area and enhancing carbon partitioning traits to improve agronomic performance under intensive management. With a strong commit-ment to bridging fundamental biology and practical applications, Runyons research tackles real-world agricultural challenges with cutting-edge solutions. Recognized for his excellence as a student and researcher, Runyon has received numerous state and national awards for his accomplishments. His passion for crop improvement and determination to push the boundaries of plant science make him a standout in the field of crop sciences.Ashwini ShivakumarRaksha ThapaCornell UniversityUniversity of Kentucky Thapa, a Ph.D. student in plant breeding, is an Shivakumar, a Ph.D. student ininnovative plant breeder, evidenced through her integrated plant and soil science,initiative, curiosity and leadership. With a mas-is advancing the understanding ofters degree in plant science from the University soybean seed development. Herof Wyoming and a bachelors in agriculture from research explores how genetics, envi- Nepals Agriculture and Forestry University, she has ronment and physiology influencecontributed to multiple successful grant propos-soybean seed size, with a focus onals, including a USDA NIFA Equipment Grant for a the critical lag phase. Using green- low-temperature growth chamber to support her house, growth chamber and fieldresearch. She is a dedicated mentor and has held studies, along with transcriptomicleadership roles in Synapsis, Cornells plant breeding graduate student organization.analyses, she has identified key genesHer research focuses on breeding cover crops for winter hardiness. She is conduct-and pathways linked to early seeding multi-environment trials, genome-wide association studies, and selection projects development and size variation. on winter peas and cereal rye to improve survival and biomass under cold conditions. Shivakumar has earned accoladesHer work supports sustainable agriculture by advancing the potential of cover crops to including the prestigious Netaji Subhasthrive in challenging climates. Her passion, leadership and impactful research make her a ICAR International Fellowship and thestandout in plant breeding.Dennis M. Tekrony Graduate Student Fellowship in Seed Biology. She has presented her work at leading confer-ences and excels in leadership andLiza Van der LaanIowa State Universitymentorship, supervising seven under- Van der Laan, a Ph.D. candidate in plant breed-graduate students and masteringing, is a dynamic leader and researcher advancing techniques like microscopy, seed vigoragricultural sciences. With a foundation in wheat testing and soybean transformation. breeding at Oklahoma State University, where she published as a first author, her current work focuses on enhancing soybean climate resiliency and seed composition. Her prolific research includes seven published articles, along with co-authored book chapters and review papers. Recognized for her expertise, she was a featured speaker at the 2023 World Soybean Research Conference.Her leadership shines as a co-instructor for plant breeding courses and president of the R.F. Baker Plant Breeding Symposium. A dedicated mentor, she guides under-graduates in programs like the McNair Scholars and leads professional development workshops. Actively engaging with farmers and K-12 students through outreach, she combines her research, teaching, and leadership to advance agricultural sciences and inspire the next generation.JANUARY 2025SEEDWORLD.COM /31'