MSU assistant professor receives ag research award

Younsuk Dong, an assistant professor in the Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering at Michigan State University, has been recognized with the Early Career Researcher Award.

Dong was honored at the 2026 College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) faculty and staff awards reception, held May 6.

The annual award honors faculty and staff who have made outstanding contributions to CANR through research, teaching and service. It highlights emerging scholars whose work demonstrates innovation, strong potential for long-term impact and meaningful contributions to their field.

Dong was recognized for achievements and growing impact in advancing agricultural and environmental systems. His research focuses on developing solutions that enhance agricultural efficiency and sustainability, supporting CANR’s mission to address complex challenges in food, energy and environmental systems.

Dong leads MSU’s Irrigation Program, helping growers improve water use efficiency, conserve freshwater and maintain crop productivity. His team developed the Low-Cost Sensor Monitoring System, or LOCOMOS, an affordable, sensor-based technology now used across more than 80,000 acres of Michigan farmland to support data-driven irrigation and disease management decisions.

Since joining MSU in 2022, Dong has secured more than $5 million in competitive grant funding as principal investigator and published extensively in high-impact journals, according to the school’s website. He also provides statewide leadership through service roles that inform irrigation guidelines and water policy. His efforts have reached thousands of industry professionals through education programs, demonstrations and Extension publications.