The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Foundation for Food and Agricultural Research (FFAR) have launched a global challenge to advance scientific research that will deliver major advances in nutrition security while mitigating the effects of climate change and promoting equity for disadvantaged communities. Funding opportunities in the “Nurturing the Next Generation of Agri-Food Breakthroughs” (Innovation Challenge) It funds interdisciplinary teams led by early career scientists (scientists who have earned their PhD within the last 10 years) to foster new discoveries while promoting transformative research that addresses some of societal’s most pressing challenges.
This competitive innovation challenge will inspire high-risk, high-reward research through innovation at the intersection of nutrition security, equity and justice, and climate-smart agriculture. Focused on next-generation research, this opportunity is focused on providing resources to support highly creative and promising young researchers. USDA and FFAR will award up to $2 million to successful candidates across multiple teams who propose a compelling vision for research methods to support sustainable food production, promote human health, and increase real-world nutrition security while reducing inequalities.
“Through this Innovation Challenge, USDA and FFAR are investing in researchers who are the source of disruptive ideas and breakthrough solutions in agricultural science,” said Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. “USDA recognizes the need for investments in interdisciplinary science to strengthen our nation’s agri-food system, and we are committed to supporting innovative problem-solvers who are generating hope through ingenuity to better feed our people and the planet.”
Secretary Vilsack said, Harvesting Hope: USDA Agri-Food Innovation SymposiumAn interactive, science-focused event held at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, D.C. Organized in collaboration with FFAR, the symposium featured innovative exhibits and lightning talks on innovative scientific solutions made possible by USDA investments to strengthen our collaborative efforts toward a more nutritious, sustainable and equitable agri-food system.
“With this symposium, we hope to spark innovative ideas, inspire new collaborations, and inspire scientific solutions led by young scientists,” said Chavonda Jacobs Young, Ph.D., USDA Chief Scientist and Under Secretary for Research, Education and Economics. “We want to create a space where great minds can come together to solve the boldest challenges facing agriculture.”
The Innovation Challenge invites qualified researchers from domestic and international institutions of higher education, non-profit and for-profit organizations, and government research institutes to propose projects that advance innovative approaches and technologies.
USDA Science and Research Strategy 2023-2026: Fostering Scientific Innovation (S&RS) (PDF, 21.4 MB) and FFAR Research StrategyWhile climate, nutrition security, and equity are often viewed and addressed as three separate issues, this new innovation challenge asks teams to view these issues in their interconnectedness. USDA’s $1 million funding for this opportunity will come from funds appropriated by Congress to the Office of the Science Secretary.
“Investing in the next generation of food and agriculture scientists is a cornerstone of FFAR’s mission, and the Innovation Challenge is a unique opportunity for early-career scientists to lead interdisciplinary teams and undertake bold research to advance U.S. food and agriculture,” said Dr. Sahara Moon Chapotin, executive director of FFAR. “We are thrilled to partner with USDA on this co-funded opportunity that aims to generate major breakthroughs in food and agriculture relevant to human health, climate change and social equity.”
The deadline for applications for the Innovation Challenge is Monday, July 29, 2024. To learn more about the Challenge and begin the application process, please visit: USDA/FFAR Innovation Challenge Page. Also, Zoom registration page Register to attend the USDA/FFAR webinar on June 13, 2024, which will provide prospective applicants with more information about the application and selection process.
