Danyang Liu has been named superintendent of the Spooner Agricultural Research Station, the northwestern-most station of the statewide ARS network operated by the University of Wisconsin–Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. In this role, which Liu started in June 2026, he will oversee the staff, research operations and outreach efforts at the 380-acre station.

Spooner ARS, established in 1909, is ideally situated to study the agricultural challenges posed by the unique conditions of northern Wisconsin, including the region’s cooler temperatures, shorter growing season and sandy loam soil. The station currently hosts demonstrations and research on a variety of crops, including oats, barley, winter wheat, alfalfa, forage grasses, hazelnuts, table grapes, corn and soybeans. The station is also home to a volunteer-supported public demonstration garden that features perennial plants, grape varieties and All-America Selections of flowers and vegetables.

Liu takes over the role from Phil Holman, longtime superintendent at Spooner Station.

Learn more about Liu in the Q&A below.

What is your professional background, including your areas of specialization?

I hold a Ph.D. in horticulture from Virginia Tech and an master’s degree in horticulture from the University of Florida. My professional background bridges academic research, commercial leadership in high-tech controlled environment agriculture, and community extension. I specialize in crop stress physiology, sustainable soil and weed management, and small fruit production, integrating advanced agricultural technology — like AI and robotics — to build resilient, climate-ready agricultural systems.

What attracted you to this position?

This position perfectly aligns with all facets of my previous experience, encompassing academic research, extension outreach, team management, and business operations and industry R&D experience. I was seeking a leadership role where I could seamlessly bridge these areas, and the Spooner Agricultural Research Station offered a unique, close-knit structure that immediately drew me in. Furthermore, the university’s strong land-grant mission supports my goal of translating scientific innovation into practical solutions for local growers. On a personal level, moving to the north wasn’t hard because Spooner feels very similar to my hometown, making it a natural and welcoming fit for my family.

What are you most looking forward to as you start this position?

I am most looking forward to supporting the on-site research and assisting our staff and researchers with their vital field tests and data collection. I am also very excited to expand our community outreach by introducing new events and classes, while continuing to grow our annual Twilight Garden Tour. Ultimately, my goal is to put plans in place that empower the next generation to grow their own food and connect them with meaningful careers in agriculture.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Qinhuangdao, a coastal city in northeastern China that is home to the famous Shanhaiguan Pass. I spent my early life there and later earned my bachelor’s degree in horticulture from Southwest University in Chongqing. In 2014, I moved to the United States to pursue my graduate education. Growing up in that environment gave me a strong foundation and an early appreciation for the natural world that eventually led to my career in plant sciences.

What are your hobbies and other interests?

Outside of my professional work, I am passionate about music and enjoy playing multiple instruments, including the drums, flute, saxophone, and the penny whistle. I also love taking advantage of the beautiful outdoors in our area through camping, spending time on the lake, and fishing, which has quickly become a favorite pastime of mine. When I am relaxing at home, I am an avid fan of video games and enjoy building custom electronics.

How should people contact you?

The best way to reach me is via my official work email at dliu376@wisc.edu or by calling my office phone at 715-733-1177. I look forward to connecting with the northwest Wisconsin community, local growers, and our station stakeholders!