2024 University Compost Research Scholarship Winners Share Research Results

CREF’s 2024 University Compost Research Scholarship winners, Sai Thejaswini Pamuru and Daisy D’Angelo, have shared the outcome of their research projects.

These outstanding researchers are advancing critical studies that highlight the transformative potential of compost in sustainable agriculture and soil management. Their innovative work underscores the vital role of compost in addressing some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges.

	Left to right: Sai Thejaswini Pamuru, Daisy D'Angelo

Sai Thejaswini Pamuru
Sai Thejaswini Pamuru is a doctoral student at the University of Maryland, College Park. Her research focused on combining compost with biochar, a material made from organic waste, to see how well this mixture can prevent nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from leaching out of the soil. She also studied how this combination helps plants grow better and stay healthier.

To read Sai's full report, click here.

Daisy D'Angelo
Daisy D’Angelo is a doctoral candidate at the Ohio State University and a horticultural scientist in growing media at Scotts Miracle-Gro. This project examined the role of food waste compost in establishing and maintaining healthy soils, specifically as a tool for better managing both nutrient and water usage.

To read Daisy's full report, click here.

Both scholarship winners will present their CREF research findings at COMPOST2025. Their presentations will highlight the impactful work being conducted through the support of the CREF scholarships. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from these emerging leaders in compost research at this year’s conference.