Deli Chen, Tan Zou, and Hari Sankar Nayak honored as the winners of the IFA Science Awards 2024
Madrid, Spain, November 19, 2024
The International Fertilizer Association (IFA) announced the winners of the IFA Science Awards, who were recognized for their exceptional contributions to plant nutrition science and sustainable agriculture.
Dr. Deli Chen, Professor at the University of Melbourne, Australia, received the IFA Norman Borlaug Plant Nutrition Award for his groundbreaking research in managing reactive nitrogen for sustainable food production and environment.
The Emerging Scholar Award was awarded to two outstanding early-career scientists:
Dr. Tan Zou, from the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science for advancing nutrient management strategies that enhanced agricultural sustainability, food security and ecosystem health on both regional and global scale.
Dr. Hari Sankar Nayak with affiliations at Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, and the International Rice Research Institute, Manila, Philippines, for his research on leveraging data-driven approaches to enhance sustainable rice production and optimize nitrogen use efficiency.
IFA CEO and Director General Alzbeta Klein commented: “The achievements of these exceptional scientists embody the spirit of innovation and dedication that drives IFA’s work. Their research shows how science can tackle some of today’s most pressing challenges, making agriculture more sustainable and resilient. We are proud to honor their efforts and excited to see how their work will continue to make a difference in the future.”
Dr. Chen said:
“I am deeply honored to receive the IFA Norman Borlaug Plant Nutrition Award. My research addresses the pressing challenges of reducing nitrogen losses to the environment while improving crop productivity. This recognition inspires me to continue collaborating with scientists and policymakers to create a more sustainable future.”
Dr. Nayak expressed:
“It is a great honor to be recognized with the IFA Emerging Scholar Award. My research focuses on leveraging data and technology to create actionable strategies for sustainable crop production with efficient nutrient use. I hope to continue exploring solutions that empower farmers and protect our natural resources.”
Dr. Zou shared:
“Receiving the Emerging Scholar Award is a significant milestone in my career. My focus on nutrient management systems aims to balance agricultural productivity with environmental protection, and I am excited to keep contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable food production.”
Since 1993, the IFA Science Awards have highlighted groundbreaking achievements in crop nutrition science. The addition of the Emerging Scholar category in recent years reflects IFA’s commitment to recognizing both established leaders and rising talents who are shaping the future of sustainable agriculture.
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About the International Fertilizer Association
The International Fertilizer Association (IFA) was founded in 1927 and is the only global fertilizer association, with around 500 members from more than 80 countries and a mission to promote the efficient and responsible production, distribution and use of plant nutrients. This mission plays a critical role in helping to feed the world sustainably. IFA represents providers of plant nutrition solutions. Members include fertilizer producers, traders and distributors, as well as their associations, service providers to the industry, research organizations, agtech startups and non-governmental organizations.
