The WIT awards stand as a premier recognition of talent and dedication among early-career scientists in the field of wheat and its closest cereal relatives. This year’s awardees, originating from Chile, China, Kenya, Spain, and Tunisia, embody innovation and dedication in their respective fields of wheat research.
“These exceptional women exemplify the spirit of excellence and innovation that drives progress in wheat research and ensures a resilient future for global food security,” said Jeanie Borlaug Laube, chair of the BGRI and daughter of Nobel Prize Peace-winner Norman E. Borlaug. “My father’s legacy, rooted in a tireless dedication to feeding the hungry and improving lives through agricultural innovation, continues on through the potential of scientists like these five amazing scientists.”
The WIT Early Career Award offers the opportunity for additional training, mentorship, and leadership development. The 2024 awards are made possible thanks to the support of the BGRI and the Accelerating Genetic Gains in Maize and Wheat (AGG) project led by CIMMYT.
“I am continually inspired by the passion and drive exhibited by our WIT Early Career Award recipients,” said Maricelis Acevedo, director for science for the BGRI and research professor in Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Since founding the WIT awards in 2010, the BGRI has now recognized 76 early-career award winners from 32 countries.
“The future of wheat science to improve farmers’ livelihoods and consumers’ nutrition security is in good hands with these five WIT award recipients contributing their exceptional science and leadership to the global wheat research community,” said Kevin Pixley, interim director of CIMMYT’s Global Wheat Program.
