K-State Researchers work with Nanotechnology to Revolutionize Farming

Whitworth analyzing different types of bugs to devise new means of nanoparticles. Courtesy: Adolfo Blanco

Full Audio Feature StoryBy Adolfo Blanco

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Kansas State University researchers are using some of the smallest tools in science to solve

one of farming’s most significant problems. Pest control. Through the use of nanotechnology, scientists like Dr. Jeff Whitworth, Extension Specialist in Entomology, and graduate researcher Selom Amego are studying how microscopic particles can make agriculture safer, more efficient, and more sustainable for Kansas farmers.

“Every year brings a different set of challenges,” Whitworth said. “We do have climate change.

Whether you believe in it or not, I can document it… and every year, because of that, we have

different pests.”

Dr. Jeff Whitworth’s study on climate change tracking throughout the years. Courtesy: Adolfo Blanco

Whitworth’s work focuses on developing nanopesticides, insecticides designed at the nanoscale

to improve effectiveness and reduce environmental harm. The research, supported by the Entomology Department at Kansas State University, aims to create pest treatments that last

longer, use less chemical material, and minimize damage to non-target organisms like

pollinators.

“Every stalk of corn that’s grown in Kansas has an insecticide seed treatment,” Whitworth said.

“We don’t need that. We should just have it on demand. What we’re trying to do is develop

safer, better products for growers, using common sense and science to make agriculture

stronger.”

Waters Hall Annex housing future innovation within K-state. Courtesy: Adolfo Blanco

The project also involves testing how these nanoparticle-based treatments move through the

plant system and how they can replace or reduce traditional chemical use. Whitworth said one

goal is to extend protection time for major crops such as wheat and corn, where pests like the

Hessian fly and corn rootworm can cause widespread damage if untreated.

Graduate researcher Selom Amego, who first came to Kansas State as a Fulbright Scholar, is

building on Whitworth’s work by experimenting with carbon nanotubes. Tiny, cylindrical structures that help insecticides stick better to seeds and leaves. The results could mean longer-lasting pest protection for Kansas crops.

“The goal is to reduce the quantity of insecticide we need while achieving the same level of

control,” Amego said.

“If nanotechnology can help us apply less insecticide in the environment, it will be something very good for nature.”

Amego said that while his work is primarily research-based, he hopes to connect more with

Kansas farmers as his studies expand. For him, the idea of sustainable agriculture is deeply

personal.

“My general interest is in sustainable agriculture… managing insect pests without causing harm

to the environment or affecting other living organisms,” Amego said.

“That’s my goal, and being at Kansas State has given me a great opportunity to pursue that.”

Selom Amego discusses and showcases his workspace and study for research into nanoparticles. Courtesy: Adolfo Blanco

Having worked directly with small-scale farmers in his home country before coming to the U.S.,

Amego said he’s learned to appreciate both the scale and sophistication of American

agriculture.

“Back home, farmers don’t have big farms like here, ” he said.

“Here, it’s hundreds and hundreds of hectares. It’s a different reality.”

Amego showcases the various minerals and studies in past research experiments. Courtesy: Adolfo Blanco

For both Whitworth and Amego, the future of agriculture lies in balancing progress with

preservation. Making farming smarter, safer, and more efficient for generations to come.

“Hopefully,” Whitworth said, “we can use less pesticides… safer for non-target organisms, more

economical for growers, and better for the environment.