The Norman Borlaug Award for Field Research and Application, endowed by The Rockefeller Foundation, is now accepting nominations for outstanding young professionals transforming agriculture and food systems around the world.
Presented annually by the World Food Prize Foundation, the award recognizes exceptional science-based achievements in international agriculture and food production by individuals under the age of 40. The winner receives a $10,000 prize and global recognition during World Food Prize Week in Des Moines.
The award honors individuals working directly “in the field” with farmers, fishers, herders, and rural communities to advance sustainable food production and combat hunger and poverty.
Application Deadline: June 1
About the Norman Borlaug Field Award
Named after Nobel Peace Prize laureate Norman Borlaug, the award celebrates early-career leaders whose field-based work improves agricultural productivity, food availability, and nutrition globally.
Candidates are recognized for demonstrating courage, determination, and innovation while working directly with rural communities across the food production, processing, and distribution chain.
Award Criteria
Nominees are evaluated based on achievements reflecting Dr. Borlaug’s legacy, including:
1. Persistence
Demonstrating determination and resilience in addressing agricultural challenges despite adversity.
2. Innovation
Developing creative solutions and new approaches to ensure global food security and nutrition.
3. Communication
Working effectively across cultures and disciplines while engaging communities and stakeholders.
4. Research and Science
Applying rigorous scientific methods to improve food production, distribution, and nutrition.
5. Extension
Bringing innovations in plant, animal, or food science to underserved farmers and communities.
6. Education
Providing practical training and scientific education to rural stakeholders.
7. Application
Implementing improved technologies or management systems that support sustainable agriculture and reduce poverty.
8. Leadership
Guiding collaborative agricultural initiatives and inspiring professionals working to fight hunger.
9. Impact
Increasing food availability and improving livelihoods through measurable outcomes.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Norman Borlaug Award for Field Research and Application, nominees must:
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Be under the age of 40 (must not have reached their 40th birthday before World Food Day, October 16 of the award year).
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Be actively working in the research, project, or discipline for which they are nominated.
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Be affiliated with a public or private educational, research, or development organization.
Additional notes:
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Nominees remain eligible for future consideration if they continue to meet the age and award criteria.
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The award is typically presented to one individual, though rare collaborative cases may allow a shared award.
Nomination Requirements
All nominations must be submitted online in English through the official nomination portal.
Required documents include:
1. Nomination Statement (up to 3,000 words)
This should describe:
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The nominee’s work and accomplishments
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How their work reflects Dr. Borlaug’s early career attributes
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The measurable impact of their contributions
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
Must include:
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Date of birth
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Country of origin
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Educational background
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Professional experience
3. Letters of Support
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One nomination letter
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Two supporting letters
These should clearly highlight the nominee’s achievements and alignment with the award criteria.
4. Photos
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One high-resolution headshot (minimum 300 dpi)
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Up to two additional action photos showing the nominee at work
Who Can Submit a Nomination?
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Any individual or organization may nominate a candidate.
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Organizational nominations must be signed by an executive officer.
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Self-nominations are not permitted.
Nominators should have direct knowledge of the nominee’s work and provide clear examples demonstrating the nominee’s impact.
Selection Process
An independent jury of international agricultural experts appointed by the World Food Prize Foundation reviews all nominations.
The jury is chaired by Ronnie Coffman, a member of the World Food Prize Council of Advisors who previously worked with Norman Borlaug in Mexico.
Note: The Rockefeller Foundation does not participate in the selection process.
Award Timeline
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Nomination Deadline: June 1
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Winner Announcement: August–September
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Award Ceremony: During World Food Prize Week around World Food Day (October 16) in Des Moines
Award Benefits
The selected winner will receive:
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$10,000 cash prize
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Global recognition at the World Food Prize Week ceremony
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Round-trip airfare to Des Moines
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Accommodation and meals during the event
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Opportunities to participate in media engagements and international discussions on food security
How to Submit a Nomination
Nominators must complete the official submission form.
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