Re-introducing Szilvia Yuja

Hello! I am Szilvia Yuja, the new Soil Scientist at the CREC. Prior to taking this position, I served as the interim lead of the Soils program and as the Research Specialist for 13 years, working alongside two previous soil scientists, Dr. Jasper Teboh for 9 years and Dr. Sergio Cabello Leiva for a year and a half. I owe much of my professional growth to them and I am deeply grateful for their mentorship and support. The legacy of the body of research they have created is something I intend to build upon.

Alongside them, during my time as a research specialist, I had the opportunity to participate in and lead field research in a wide variety of soils related topics. The vast majority of the trials were focused on crop fertility research, investigating optimal rates, sources, timing, placement and nutrient interactions. Other major topics included crop water use, the mapping of inherent soil characteristics and cover crop use for mitigation of marginal lands. Product testing at the request of both farmers and companies was also a part of the program’s profile. We tested everything from modified fertilizer products to various inoculants, growth regulators and soil amendments. I have had many interesting conversations with both industry entrepreneurs and growers making me aware of the need for generating independent data.

I am motivated by the idea of doing research work that has practical applications to crop producers of North Dakota and beyond. It is my intention to use the non-proprietary data already generated by the CREC Soils program to help guide the future direction of the program. I also would like to shape my program based on the needs of producers. I very much welcome your feedback and would love to hear from you. For me the most exciting research projects have been the ones initiated in direct response to a farmer’s question.

A little about my background: I grew up in Hungary, where a passion for nature and gardening led me to pursue my first degree in Horticulture with a focus on Soil Science. During a college summer work exchange in the U.S., I met my husband. After relocating to the U.S., I earned a Master’s degree in Agronomy, which brought me to my career here at the CREC. Today, our family includes three children, two of whom were born in North Dakota. After an initial adjustment to the harshness of the local winter, we have come to love North Dakota and feel right at home in the Carrington community.

Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions, research requests, comments or just to connect.

Szilvia Yuja
Szilvia.ZilahiSebess@ndsu.edu
Soil Scientist