Mike Mulvaney

Mike Mulvaney, born and raised in Connecticut, has always had a unique path. After earning a black belt, he ran a Taekwondo school until he joined the Army to pay for school. Serving in the Army National Guard during the first Gulf War, when he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Mike developed a sense of discipline, dedication and attention to detail that would shape his future endeavors.

Mike’s academic journey began with a degree in Organic Chemistry from the University of Connecticut, where he synthesized novel molecular compounds targeting cancer and osteoarthritis. Initially working for Bayer Pharmaceuticals, his career took a significant turn when he joined the Peace Corps in Bolivia. Working with rural Quechua farmers, he discovered a profound need for agricultural Extension, shifting his focus to help subsistence farmers. This experience ignited his passion for agriculture, leading him to pursue a PhD and work with USAID at Virginia Tech on conservation agriculture systems in 14 developing world countries. So far, Mike has been to 54 countries on six continents.

His professional journey led him to Mexico, where he worked for CIMMYT, an organization founded by Norman Borlaug, father of the Green Revolution. Mike’s international experience broadened his understanding of global agricultural systems and taught him to communicate across cultures and languages. Skipping a Master’s degree, he directly pursued an Agronomy and Soils Ph.D. at Auburn University, further solidifying his expertise.

Mike has been the Hartwig Endowed Chair in Soybean Agronomy at Mississippi State University since 2021. His role encompasses teaching, research, and Extension, with a strong focus on practical solutions for row crop farmers. To date, Mike has 71 peer-reviewed publications and $43.3 million in lifetime grantsmanship. However, as the Executive Director for the Mississippi Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) Program and Technical Editor for Agronomy Journal, Mike’s influence extends beyond academia.

His research team at Mississippi State includes a diverse team: a research associate, 2 Ph.D. students, 2 Master’s students, and a postdoc. His innovative approach and somewhat controversial presentations have garnered attention, leading to significant achievements in nitrogen credits from legumes and biological research.

Mike’s involvement in the Science for Success program highlights the importance of collaboration and networking among top soybean researchers. He values the program’s national team, which is dedicated to advancing applied soybean research and supporting growers.

Outside of his professional life, Mike is an avid cyclist, having completed a 111-mile bike ride in Chile and participated in numerous mountain bike races and triathlons. He qualified for triathlon nationals and enjoys sharing this passion with his daughter, Maeve, who competes in triathlons. His wife, Emma, and their dog, Persephone (Persy), named after the goddess of agriculture, complete his family. In lieu of a television, together they play the clarinet, flute, saxophone, ukulele, guitar, and trumpet, poorly but with relish!

Mike’s journey from a chemist in Connecticut to an influential figure in agricultural research is a testament to his dedication, adaptability, and passion for making a difference in the world of agriculture.

Story by Aleigha Kelly and Isabella Dean.