SHEFFIELD, IOWA, U.S. — Manjit K. Misra, director of the Seed Science Center at Iowa State University, received the annual Sukup Global Food Security award.

The award recognizes distinguished contributions to global food security through research, outreach, and teaching in post-harvest seed science, technology, and policy.

Misra received the award in July at the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) annual international meeting in Detroit, Michigan, U.S.

The Seed Science Center is the world’s largest public facility devoted to seed technology, and Misra has impacted food security by applying engineering principles to seed technology and systems.

The Sukup Global Food Security Award was endowed by Sukup Manufacturing Co. and consists of an engraved crystal trophy featuring a globe, and a $1,000 cash prize. The inaugural award was presented in 2016.

“Providing food around the world is critical to both increasing prosperity and also alleviating hunger and suffering among our most vulnerable global citizens,” said Charles Sukup, president of Sukup Manufacturing, who presented the award. “Seed is a fundamental building block of food security, and Dr. Misra’s leadership has greatly contributed to developing and preserving the viability of seeds. We are thrilled to recognize his important work with the 2018 Sukup Global Food Security Award.”

Misra has received numerous awards from several organizations in recognition of his research and professional accomplishments. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the American Seed Trade Association, for Leadership, Vision, and Exemplary Service to the U.S. Seed Industry; Engineer of the Year, Iowa Section, American Society of Agricultural Engineers; and has served on the Scientific Advisory Council, American Seed Research Foundation, since 1991.

A distinguished author, Misra has written or co-written more than 140 peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and other publications. He is listed as the co-inventor on nine patents. Misra has been a member of ASABE for 37 years.