Desert Control Appoints New Chief Science Officer to Lead Research Expansion

Veteran agronomist Dr. Michael Canady joins to bolster scientific credibility and product development.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 7:38am

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A bold, abstract painting in muted earth tones featuring sweeping geometric shapes, concentric circles, and organic spirals, conveying the structural order and natural elements of sustainable agriculture technology.A conceptual illustration capturing the scientific complexity and natural elegance of Desert Control's soil health and water conservation technology.Davis Today

Desert Control AS, a leader in soil and water conservation technology, has appointed Dr. Michael Canady as its new Chief Science Officer. Canady, a veteran agronomist and plant scientist with over two decades of experience, will lead the company's growing U.S. research operations and provide scientific direction to unlock the full value of Desert Control's Liquid Natural Clay (LNC) technology through systematic clinical development and peer-reviewed evidence.

Why it matters

As Desert Control consolidates its research activities in the American Southwest, Canady's expertise in plant genetics, agronomy, and agricultural R&D will be crucial to delivering scientifically robust trials that showcase the unique soil health and water-saving attributes of LNC. His leadership will also help shape the company's future product development.

The details

Canady holds a PhD in Genetics from the University of California, Davis, and a Master of Science in Agronomy and Horticulture from Brigham Young University. He has held pioneering roles at Bayer Crop Science, Cytozyme Laboratories, and Verdesian Life Sciences, where he led global breeding programs, international field research, and the development and commercialization of novel agricultural technologies. Throughout his career, Canady has authored several peer-reviewed articles featured in plant genetic and biostimulant publications.

  • Canady's anticipated start date is April 27, 2026.

The players

Desert Control AS

A leader in soil and water conservation technology that develops innovative solutions to enhance soil health, conserve water, and promote ecosystem resilience.

Dr. Michael Canady

An incoming Chief Science Officer at Desert Control AS with over two decades of expertise in plant genetics, agronomy, and agricultural research and development.

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What they’re saying

“Michael's appointment will come at a pivotal moment for Desert Control. As we sharpen our research activities in the American Southwest, having a scientist of his caliber leading that effort will ensure we can deliver scientifically robust trials which showcase the unique soil health and water saving attributes of Liquid Natural Clay (LNC) as well as research that will help shape our product development over time. His expertise across plant science, field trials, and agricultural innovation is exactly what Desert Control needs at this stage.”

— James Thomas, Chief Executive Officer, Desert Control AS

“Desert Control is addressing one of the most critical challenges of our time: how to make the world's soil more productive and resilient in the face of water scarcity and climate change. LNC is a remarkable technology, and I am excited to lead the scientific efforts to deepen our understanding of it, expand its applications, and ensure that growers and land managers across the American Southwest and beyond can fully realize its potential.”

— Dr. Michael A. Canady, incoming Chief Science Officer, Desert Control AS

The takeaway

The appointment of Dr. Michael Canady as Desert Control's new Chief Science Officer signals the company's commitment to strengthening the scientific credibility and real-world impact of its innovative Liquid Natural Clay technology. Canady's expertise will be crucial in driving rigorous research, expanding LNC's applications, and ensuring growers can maximize the benefits of this soil health and water conservation solution.