NC State University has named Victor Gomes as Extension corn agronomist, strengthening support for North Carolina’s corn industry and statewide agricultural community. He begins work with NC State Extension on Aug. 1, based in the university’s Department of Crop and Soil Sciences within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Gomes comes to NC State from North Dakota State University’s Dickinson Research Extension Center, where he served as an Extension specialist in cropping systems.
A cornerstone of North Carolina agriculture, corn is the state’s No. 2 field crop based on cash receipts and planted acreage. Farmers plant over 900,000 acres annually, generating more than $700 million in cash receipts in recent years.
The crop plays a critical role in supporting the state’s livestock and poultry industries, creating a continued need for research-based production recommendations and Extension support.
“North Carolina’s corn producers face evolving challenges and opportunities, and this position represents NC State's continued commitment to supporting our growers with research-based information, innovative solutions and responsive programs," said David Monks, NC State Extension director and CALS associate dean.
“Victor brings both applied research expertise and producer-focused Extension experience that will directly benefit corn growers across the state. We’re excited to welcome him to NC State and look forward to the impact his work will have on North Carolina agriculture.”
As NC State Extension corn agronomist, Gomes will provide statewide leadership for corn-related Extension programming and applied research. He will work closely with county Extension agents, growers, commodity organizations, industry partners and faculty across disciplines to address key issues related to corn production, profitability, resilience and sustainability.
Gomes earned his doctorate in agronomy and plant science from the Federal University of Ceará in Brazil. He also holds a master’s degree in plant science from the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region and a bachelor’s degree in agronomy from the Federal University of Ceará.
While at North Dakota State, he led applied research and Extension programs focused on crop production, plant nutrition, pest management and emerging agricultural technologies. Earlier, he conducted row-crop research at The Ohio State University, working on production challenges affecting crops including corn and soybean.
NC State Extension and the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences will introduce Gomes to Extension colleagues, producers and industry stakeholders as part of the onboarding process this summer.
