- Degree: Doctorate (Fall 2021)
- Advisor: Dr. Ricardo Hernandez
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-huber-phd-a2440857/
What was your degree(s) or focus?
PhD in the field of Controlled Environment Horticulture focused on optimizing the efficiency of indoor growing systems through plant ecophysiology & Technology Entrepreneurship and Commercialization certificate from Poole College of Management
How are you planning to use your degree?
I would like to contribute my knowledge of controlled environment horticulture and plant breeding to contribute to horticulture research. I also enjoy sharing that knowledge through various forms of education.
Whom do you want to thank?
I’d like to thank my advisor, family, and friends who were always there for me during this journey.
What is the best thing about studying horticulture at NC State?
The people and the plants. You feel at home when many share the same plant obsessions as you. The department also has a nice family feel to it, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know everyone.
Clubs and Activities
- Pi Alpha Xi
- Horticultural Science Graduate Student Association
- Graduate Student Association
- Horticulture club
- Graduate Peer Mentors
Do you have plans for after graduation? Are you currently working?
I recently started working at Ag Eye Technologies as their lead plant scientist. We are working on AI applications to improve indoor agriculture through technological advancements.
Advisor Comments (Dr. Ricardo Hernandez):
I had the privilege to be Brandon’s adviser for his PhD degree. During these 3.5 years, I got to know Brandon’s personality, skills set, and passions. There are four things that I value the most on a PhD student 1) critical and creative thinking, 2) high work-ethics, 3) resiliency/independence, and 4) communication skills. Brandon has mastered all four traits.
Critical and creative thinking: Brandon’s critical thinking during his research design and execution provided one of my most impactful publications. In addition, his constant urge to make things better (creativity) had yield very innovated research techniques.
High work ethics: during his time in my research program (3.5 years), I do not recall any instance were the workload overwhelmed Brandon, he often took more responsibilities than his peers. For example, complemental research projects, assistance to other students, participation in horticulture related organizations, and community service. His research always progressed in a timely manner, and he dedicated the appropriate attention to the research work. In addition, he was able to publish the work in the same time frame. Which is something that is not common for a 3.5-year graduate student.
Resiliency/independence: Brandon is an autodidact, and this is demonstrated by his diverse professional and academic background. Brandon’s expertise includes in-depth proficiency as a greenhouse head grower (professional experience), awarded avid gardener, plant breeding (MS), environmental plant physiology (PhD), controlled environment technology (PhD) and entrepreneurship (Business School certificate). This diverse background gives him a unique skill set to collaborate with colleagues/stakeholders with different backgrounds and expertise.
Communication skills: Brandon has excellent communication skills, both scientific and interpersonal. His good oral presentation skills have been recognized with two scientific presentation awards by the International Society of Horticultural Sciences and by the American Society of Horticultural Sciences. His positive and energetic personality make him very approachable, and people tend to gravitate towards him.
I am very grateful that I was able to work with Brandon, and I look forward to follow his future success, and projects.