Hence Duncan

Hence Duncan is a Ph.D. student in Agricultural Economics at Oklahoma State University. Originally from Decherd, Tennessee, he grew up on a multigenerational corn and soybean farm, gaining a practical understanding of agricultural production challenges. He completed both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

At Oklahoma State University, Duncan specializes in production economics. His current research aims to improve the speed and accuracy of variable-rate nitrogen recommendations using spatial econometrics. His dissertation examines how spatially explicit nitrogen modeling can help producers optimize fertilizer use, reduce uncertainty, and improve nitrogen efficiency across entire fields.

His earlier research covers a wide range of applied policy topics, including wildlife damage indemnities, prevented planting, crop insurance, grain storage economics, and the development of extension decision tools. He has authored peer-reviewed journal articles, contributed to extension publications, and written for popular press outlets.

Beyond research, Duncan holds several leadership roles on campus. He serves as President of the Agricultural Economics Graduate Student Association, organizing workshops, professional development events, and community-building initiatives. He is also the Assistant Quiz Bowl Coach and collaborates with faculty on academic programming.

Duncan plans to pursue a career as an applied economist in roles that integrate research, communication, and producer engagement. He is particularly interested in Extension or teaching positions at land-grant universities, as well as applied economist roles in government agencies such as USDA-ERS. His long-term goal is to develop tools and economic insights that support informed decision-making for agricultural producers.