Ames, Iowa, USA
May 27, 2025
Graduate Assistant to Defend Thesis on Improving Kentucky Bluegrass Establishment Before Returning Home
After more than two years at the Iowa State University Seed Science Center, Jack Moran is preparing to defend his master’s thesis this June. A graduate assistant under Dr. Susana Goggi, Jack has left a lasting impression on the Center through his dedication to research, his growth as a scientist, and his passion for seed science.
Jack’s path to Iowa State began in the fields of his family’s organic beef and tillage farm in Ireland. “From a young age, I loved agriculture,” Jack recalled. “At first, it was the large machinery, but over time I became fascinated by the science behind crop growth.” This curiosity led him to pursue a Bachelor of Agriculture degree at University College Dublin and eventually to a semester abroad at ISU, an experience that changed his trajectory.
“Jack took my undergraduate seed science class while studying abroad,” Dr. Goggi shared. “Despite most of his courses being in animal science, he was captivated by seed science, and he earned the highest score in the class.” After graduation, Jack initially considered plant breeding for graduate studies, but a reference letter from Dr. Goggi nudged him back toward seeds. “He called to say he was interested in seed science after all, and the rest is history.”
Jack’s thesis research focuses on improving the establishment of perennial ground covers in corn systems, specifically Kentucky bluegrass. His experiments tested various seed treatments to enhance germination and early growth in both field and lab settings. “Using perennial cover crops like Kentucky bluegrass could reduce the need for annual labor while helping protect against soil erosion,” Jack explained.
His work is part of a broader USDA-funded initiative, RegenPGC, which supports sustainable row crop production through perennial ground covers. “Jack evaluated emergence, soil coverage, and biomass yield, as well as the effect of seed mixtures,” said Dr. Goggi. “He made significant contributions to the project and even published a research article, an impressive achievement for a master’s student in two years.”
Jack’s time at ISU was marked by personal and professional growth. “I learned how to manage my own research and make decisions independently,” he said. “It was challenging at first, but it pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow.” He credits Dr. Goggi’s mentorship for helping him succeed: “She always put her students first and trusted me to uphold high research standards. I’m truly grateful for that.”
Beyond the lab, Jack made memories with the Seed Science Center community. “Celebrating my graduation with everyone here was a highlight,” he shared. “It’s been a fun, fulfilling, and unforgettable experience.” Following his defense, Jack and his girlfriend Erin plan to travel through South America before settling in mainland Europe, where he hopes to continue working in the seed industry. “My goal is to help farmers understand the value of sowing quality seed,” he said.
Dr. Goggi has no doubt Jack will continue to thrive. “Jack is self-motivated, efficient, and dedicated,” she said. “Watching him grow into a confident scientist has been a privilege.”
As he prepares for the next chapter, Jack leaves with advice for future students: “Seed science is fascinating, and the industry is always looking for young talent. Seeds are essential for life—there’s so much to discover.”
And wherever his career takes him, Jack will carry a bit of Iowa with him. “I hope he always remembers,” said Dr. Goggi, “that he’s now part of the Cyclone family.”
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