Iowa State Livestock Scientist Curt Youngs Named Top Agri-food Pioneer by World Food Prize Foundation
Iowa State University Professor Curt Youngs has been named a 2026 Top Agri-Food Pioneer by the World Food Prize Foundation. He joins 40 global innovators from 30 countries recognized for their transformative work in agriculture and global food security.
Youngs, a Morrill Professor, M.E. Ensminger Endowed Chair of International Animal Agriculture, and associate director of Iowa State’s Center for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods livestock and animal health programs, is renowned for his contributions to improving livestock reproduction techniques and increasing milk and meat production efficiency worldwide.
The TAP (Technological Achievements for Progress) Award honors Youngs' scientific excellence, international leadership, and practical impact on livestock systems, food security, and agricultural development in Ethiopia, Kosovo, Peru, Algeria, and Uganda. The announcement cites his publications and translations of advanced reproductive and animal biosciences into real-world benefits.
"I am so humbled and honored to be chosen as one of 40 across the globe who are being recognized as agrifood pioneers," Youngs expressed. "This is one of the highest recognitions I could receive."
Youngs will present at two events during the 2026 World Food Prize Forum:
- Afternoon Panel: Can We Change the Livestock Conversation Before Hunger Wins? (2:15 - 3:00 p.m. CDT)
- Side Event: Deploying Livestock Solutions for Nutrition, Climate and Sustainable Development (6:15 - 8:15 p.m. CDT)
Both events are co-hosted by the International Livestock Research Institute, Iowa State University, and the University of California-Davis. Registration is required.