Research Interns

My name is Bhagya Prasadini, and I am from Sri Lanka, a country known for its rich natural beauty and strong agricultural heritage. Growing up surrounded by nature sparked my curiosity about the environment and sustainable food systems. This passion led me to pursue a BSc in Agricultural Sciences and Management, specializing in Agri-Environmental Resource Management. Over time, I developed a strong passion for soil science, sustainability, and precision agriculture, which continues to guide my academic and career goals. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, watching movies, and spending quiet moments outdoors, which help me stay refreshed and maintain a strong connection with nature.

My name is Nimasha Wijerathne, and I come from Sri Lanka, a tropical island nation known for its rich biodiversity, natural beauty, and strong agricultural heritage. I graduated from the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences at Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, where I developed a strong foundation in soil science, environmental sustainability, and data-driven approaches to understanding agricultural systems. Growing up in close connection with nature has shaped my curiosity, adaptability, and deep appreciation for the environment. My research interests lie in uncovering the hidden relationships between soil health, environmental dynamics, and agricultural productivity, with a strong focus on using data-driven insights to better understand and improve real-world ecosystem outcomes. Beyond academics, I genuinely enjoy learning new things, connecting with people from different cultures, and experiencing diverse ways of life. I am actively involved in charity and volunteer work, finding real fulfillment in supporting communities and contributing to meaningful causes. Whenever possible, I continue to engage in activities that allow me to give back and make a positive difference. I also enjoy music and exploring new places, which help me stay inspired, reflective, and balanced in life.

My Name is Sarah Trook. I was born into a traveling military family but settled here in Scottsbluff Nebraska when I was 13. I consider myself a Nebraska native who is familiar with the East Coast USA.
I will graduate WNCC with an associate of Science Fall of 2026. Before, I worked in customer service, emergency service, hospital intake and social work with the Department of Labor. I plan to eventually obtain a masters in Nearshore Ecology and Science Communication Journalism. I want to do conservation research on tide pool ecosystems. In journalism, I would like to present and write about research. I am passionate about translating scientific papers and jargon into language the general public can understand and get excited about.
In my free time I enjoy cycling, swimming, dog training, sculpting, painting and tabletop games with close friends. I love to spend time at the North Platte River spotting wildlife. I miss the ocean terribly. But I have come to find Nebraska to be filled with a quiet magic sitting comfortably in its harsh and dusty terrain. I am so excited to learn even more.

My name is Dilshan Ekanayaka. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Special) from Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, where I specialized in Environmental Soil Management. I'm from Matale, located in the center of Sri Lanka, a beautiful island often referred to as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean due to its rich biodiversity and natural resources. My home is near the Knuckles Mountain Range, one of Sri Lanka's most important and scenic highland ecosystems.
I have a deep passion for gaining knowledge, particularly in the area of environmental conservation. In my free time, I enjoy playing cricket and Elle, as well as watching movies and TV series.

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My name is Muhammed Lamin Bittaye, a first-generation college student from Essau, Gambia. I lost my father at the age of five, but his legacy as a passionate farmer lives on through a cashew orchard he left behind, which continues to sustain our family. His foresight and commitment to the land inspired me to pursue a career in agriculture and rural development. I graduated from the Gambia college in 2023, and now I am pursuing Business Administration and IT at Western Nebraska Community College to complement my practical farming background and grow my agribusiness, BILROOM with focus on livestock and orchard management.
Throughout my life, I’ve been deeply connected to agriculture: working with the land, raising animals, and managing orchards have always been more than just responsibilities; they are passions that ground me. I enjoy spending time on the farm, practicing vegetative propagation, compost making, and learning new techniques in sustainable farming. Beyond agriculture, I have a love for reading, especially books on leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal development. I also love all kinds of handy works (arts, craft, metal work, woodwork, construction...), playing soccer, and as well engaging in community service, and exploring nature. These hobbies reflect my desire to grow not only as a professional, but as a person dedicated to uplifting others.
I am currently interning at PREEC in the Soil Department, where I’m gaining hands-on experience in soil science and management. My work involves learning about soil composition, fertility, conservation techniques, greenhouse gas regulations, and how soil interacts with water and nutrients to support healthy plant growth. This internship is strengthening my understanding of soil as the foundation of agriculture and equipping me with the knowledge and skills I need to improve farming systems back home, support smallholder farmers, and promote sustainable practices in Gambia

From Sri Lanka to Nebraska:
I grew up in Matara, a beautiful coastal city in southern Sri Lanka, surrounded by nature and inspired by the rhythm of the environment. That connection with nature shaped my life's goal - to find more sustainable ways to do agriculture without harming the ecosystems which support us. Today, my journey has taken me halfway across the world to the Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where I'm working to improve my knowledge about managing soil inputs and agronomic practices, specifically focusing on nitrogen (N) management in sugar beet farming.