IFA announces the 2025 recipients of the IFA Science Awards, recognizing excellence in plant nutrition research and innovation
Rabat, Morocco, November 19, 2025
The International Fertilizer Association (IFA) today announced the winners of the 2025 IFA Science Awards, which recognize outstanding contributions to plant nutrition science and innovation supporting sustainable development. The awards comprise two categories. The IFA Norman Borlaug Plant Nutrition Award honors individuals with a broad portfolio of scientific achievements and proven contributions to plant nutrition knowledge and practical solutions. The IFA Emerging Scholar Award highlights early-career researchers whose innovative work shows strong potential for future impact.
This year, the IFA Norman Borlaug Plant Nutrition Award was presented to Dr. Keith Shepherd, Chief Scientist at iSDA, and the IFA Emerging Scholar Award was presented to Dr. Gonzalo Rizzo of the University of the Republic (Uruguay).
IFA Norman Borlaug Plant Nutrition Award - Dr. Keith Shepherd
Dr. Keith Shepherd was recognized for his pioneering work in soil diagnostics and digital agriculture. He advanced the use of infrared spectroscopy to deliver rapid, low-cost soil analysis and helped build soil information systems across Africa. He also led the development of Virtual Agronomist, an AI-driven crop advisory platform that delivers tailored guidance to improve yields and crop resiliency.
Dr. Shepherd said:
“I am sincerely thankful for this distinction. It is rewarding to see decades of research translating into real, large-scale impact for farmers. I hope this recognition helps draw greater attention to the importance of sustained investment in balanced soil and crop nutrition as a foundation for food security, farm profitability and climate resilience.”
IFA Emerging Scholar Award – Dr. Gonzalo Rizzo
Dr. Gonzalo Rizzo was recognized for his data-driven research on sustainable intensification and nutrient management. His work identified widespread potassium deficiency as a major barrier in Southeast Asian rice and maize systems. His research also showed that agronomic improvements, including balanced plant nutrition, have driven much of the recent maize yield gains in the United States, supporting more efficient and climate-resilient agriculture.
Dr. Rizzo said:
“I am deeply honored to receive the IFA Emerging Scholar Award. My research is dedicated to advancing sustainable crop production through improved nutrient management, closing yield gaps and enhancing resilience to climate variability. This recognition reinforces my commitment to collaborate with farmers, scientists, the private sector and policymakers to develop evidence-based solutions that boost productivity while safeguarding natural resources.”
IFA CEO and Director General, Alzbeta Klein, said:
“As an industry, we rely on scientific excellence to shape responsible plant nutrition. This year’s recipients show how research and innovation can deliver tangible benefits for farmers and food systems across the world. Their work strengthens IFA’s mission to build more resilient agricultural systems. Congratulations to our winners.”
Since 1993, IFA has celebrated advances in crop and plant nutrition through the International Crop Nutrition Award, followed by the Norman Borlaug Award from 2010.
-Ends-
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, startups and non-governmental organizations.
IFA contact information
www.fertilizer.org
LinkedIn: international-fertilizer-association-ifa
X: @FertilizerNews
Media contact: Sally Ekanayaka, Communications Manager, sekanayaka@fertilizer.org
