Behind the Research With Dr. Yongfa You

March 2025

We are excited to launch a series of Q&A style articles highlighting accomplishments by postdoctoral scholars, graduate students, and others who work with Schiller Institute Core faculty members. Our first featured scholar is Yongfa You, who works with Institute Professor of Global Sustainability Hanqin Tian and has accepted a tenure-track position at Virginia Tech. Please learn more about Yongfa below in a Q&A with The Scoop.

Tell us about your background and how you got into this field.

I am currently a postdoctoral researcher at the Schiller Institute for Integrated Science and Society at Boston College, working with Dr. Hanqin Tian. I hold a Ph.D. in Earth System Science from Auburn University, where my research focused on sustainable agriculture.

My journey into this field began with a strong technical foundation. During my master’s training in geospatial data science, I focused on technical and engineering innovations—for example, developing methods to more accurately extract buildings from high-resolution satellite imagery. While I enjoyed solving these kinds of technical challenges, I gradually realized I wanted to apply my skills to problems with broader societal and environmental impact. That shift in perspective led me to pursue a Ph.D. focused on sustainable agriculture—a vital component of the Earth system that intersects with pressing issues such as food security, climate change, and water resources. Since then, my work has centered on using data-driven approaches to better understand and enhance the sustainability and resilience of agricultural systems.

Please describe your research for a general audience.

My research focuses on understanding how agricultural systems respond to different environmental challenges like drought, land use change, and fertilizer use. I use tools like computer models, satellite data, and artificial intelligence to study how these factors interact and affect farming outcomes. The goal of my work is to develop practical, science-based solutions that help make agriculture more sustainable. In other words, how can we grow enough food to feed the world while also protecting water and soil, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and helping farmers adapt to a changing climate?

What drew you to working with Schiller Core faculty member Dr. Tian?

I have had the privilege of working with Dr. Tian during both my Ph.D. studies and postdoctoral training. Dr. Tian has a forward-thinking scientific vision and consistently encourages me to think big and pursue cutting-edge research. His exceptional academic insights and patient mentorship have been critical to my academic growth in areas such as research, teaching, and proposal writing. I am also grateful for the opportunities I have had to collaborate with leading scientists around the world through Dr. Tian’s guidance, which has greatly broadened my perspective and professional network.

What has been the most meaningful part of working in Dr. Tian’s group?

The most meaningful part of working in Dr. Tian’s group has been the strong culture of collaboration and high-impact science. I have had the opportunity to work on interdisciplinary projects that address real-world environmental challenges, which makes the work both intellectually stimulating and deeply fulfilling. I feel fortunate to be part of such a collaborative and supportive team—everyone is so kind and always willing to help, both with academic work and everyday life. That positive and encouraging environment has made a big difference in my experience.

Please tell us about your new position and what excites you about it.

My position at Virginia Tech focuses on agricultural carbon systems, with a strong emphasis on both research and extension. The goal is to better understand and manage carbon stocks and fluxes in farming landscapes. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to collaborate with a wide network of colleagues at Virginia Tech, including those with strong expertise in biogeochemical cycling and soil health—areas that are essential for improving carbon accounting and developing effective strategies to enhance carbon stocks. What excites me even more is the extension component of the role, which gives me the chance to engage directly with farmers, landowners, and other stakeholders. I find it especially meaningful to help translate scientific research into real-world practices that promote more sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture.

What has been your favorite part of living in Boston?

What I really like about living in Boston is that it is a beautiful city with a lot of character. There is a strong sense of history and culture here—you can feel it just walking around. I also enjoy the food—there are so many great places to eat, from seafood to all kinds of international dishes. It’s the kind of city where you can always find something interesting to do or explore.