Noah Langenfeld has always enjoyed the wonders of the outdoors. Gardening, exploring, and enjoying nature sparked a lifelong passion for the natural world. This passion led him to pursue a double major in biochemistry and biology, graduating from the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point in 2020.
Driven by a desire to expand his knowledge and make a tangible impact, Noah moved to Utah in July 2020 to start a Ph.D. program at Utah State University under the mentorship of Bruce Bugbee, a professor in the Plants, Soils and Climate Department in the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences and an expert in space-related plant experiments. Noah’s research focuses on optimizing plant nutrition for closed life-support systems, a critical endeavor for future space missions. This cutting-edge work not only advances agricultural science, but also holds the promise of feeding people in the most challenging environments.
Noah’s dedication to helping others extends beyond his academic pursuits. He volunteers at the USU Student Nutrition Access Center (SNAC) food pantry, witnessing firsthand the importance of food security.
“SNAC is crucial because it addresses a hidden issue on campus,” Noah explained. “Often, people won’t ask for help, but having these resources available normalizes the issue and takes the stigma away.”
His experiences at SNAC align perfectly with his broader life goal: to use his agricultural expertise to help people access nutritious food. After graduation, Noah envisions opening his own hydroponic and aquaponic greenhouse business, teaching communities how to use their resources wisely and achieve self-sufficiency.
Outside of his academic and volunteer commitments, Noah embraces the natural beauty of life on campus and the community of Logan. An avid runner, hiker, and camper, he enjoys the endless recreational opportunities the mountains offer. Recently, he discovered a passion for ultrarunning, completing three 50K races with plans to conquer a 108K and a 100-mile race. As an active private pilot, he often takes to the skies to marvel at Utah’s breathtaking landscapes from above.
Noah’s journey at USU has been made possible by the Apogee Instruments-Campbell Scientific Graduate Fellowship.
“No one goes to graduate school for the money,” he acknowledged. “This scholarship helps take the burden off paying for ever-increasing costs and allows me to focus on the things that matter most, such as school and research.”
Noah’s mentor, Bugbee, director of the Crop Physiology Laboratory at USU and president of Apogee Instruments, is renowned for his expertise in hydroponics and crop sustainability for space missions. A Fellow of both the American Society of Agronomy and the American Society for Horticultural Science, he has contributed significantly to growing crops aboard the International Space Station.
“Noah is a great example of an insightful, young scientist,” said Bugbee. “I am honored to have the opportunity to work with him.”
Reflecting on his time at USU, Noah expresses deep gratitude for the support he has received.
“USU is a special place because most of the faculty and students are always willing to offer assistance in any way possible,” Noah shared. “I love working in a collaborative atmosphere, and USU is a great place for this. The location is also top-notch — being so close to the mountains and their endless recreational opportunities is amazing!”
Noah’s story is one of growth, giving, and relentless pursuit of knowledge. Through his dedication to both his research and his community, he embodies the spirit of Utah State University, making a lasting impact on both the local and global stage.
“I would like to offer one final thank you to the donors, including Dr. Bugbee, who provided me with the Apogee Instruments - Campbell Scientific Graduate Fellowship,” Noah said. “Your support and the support of others help students like me achieve our dreams.”
Noah’s commitment to feeding communities and advancing agricultural science underscores his belief that even small efforts can lead to significant change. His work at USU and his volunteer efforts at SNAC highlight the importance of collaboration, community, and the pursuit of a better future.
Empowering undergraduate and graduate students with hands-on research experiences keeps USU on the front lines of groundbreaking innovation. Create Your Aggie Impact and make a difference in developing solutions to the world’s challenges.
Contact
Brandon Monson
Agriculture, Senior Development Director
435-797-2208
brandon.monson@usu.edu
Michelle Merrill
Extension & Botanical, Development Director
435-797-8556
michelle.merrill@usu.edu