The International Research Academy was established by IPIA in 2023 to support and mentor faculty interested in conducting international research. This yearlong program combines regular group meetings with one-on-one mentoring, drawing on the expertise of senior College of Agriculture faculty. Sessions cover key topics such as types of international work, building overseas partnerships, trip planning and developing proposals.

This year’s fellows include Thaisa Cantu-Jungles (Food Science), Fernanda da Cunha (Agricultural and Biological Engineering), Hinayah Rojas de Oliveira (Animal Sciences) and Siddhartho Paul (Agronomy). In April, the group traveled to Brazil to meet with colleagues at four Brazilian higher education institutions: the University of Campinas (UNICAMP), the University of São Paulo at Piracicaba (ESALQ)), the Federal University of São Carlos and the Federal University of Viçosa (UFV).

The visit to Viçosa continues a partnership between Viçosa and Purdue’s College of Agriculture that began 75 years ago. During the visit, the group toured the Purdue Room and Purdue Avenue, sites that reflect the longstanding collaboration between the two institutions. During a special plenary session, organized as part of UFV’s yearlong centennial celebration, IPIA Director Jerry Shively presented an overview of the history of the partnership between our institutions entitled 75 Years in the Making: The Origins and Early Days of the UFV-Purdue Relationship. While at Viçosa, the delegation connected with numerous colleagues, building on the contributions of more than 90 Purdue faculty who have helped shape academic programs at UFV since the 1950s. The visit highlighted both the legacy and continued momentum of this global partnership, reinforcing opportunities for future collaboration and impact in agricultural research and education.

For more information about the International Research Academy, including how to apply to be a part of next year’s cohort, visit the program’s website.

Distinguished Professor of Agronomy,

Gebisa Ejeta, inducted into Inventors Hall of Fame

Department of Food Science Professor Yaohua “Betty” Feng was selected to participate in the U.S.-Africa Frontiers Symposium, hosted by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, where her work was recognized as one of the few agriculture-focused topics. The symposium fostered new connections with researchers across the U.S. and Africa and led to a collaborative project with a colleague in Tanzania. Together, they were named 2026 U.S.-Africa Frontiers Fellows. 

Photo: Composting pits in Las Casas greenhouse in Arequipa

Survey analysis of greenhouse producers in the Colca Canyon Valley of Arequipa highlights a diverse and primarily subsistence-focused production system. Growers reported cultivating a wide range of vegetables, including chard, lettuce, spinach and herbs, with many also experimenting with fruiting crops such as tomatoes, strawberries and grapes, and more than 80% growing additional crops like peas, basil and flowers. Most producers rely on potable household water for irrigation, though some use reservoirs or springs, and while water access is generally year-round, seasonal shortages were noted in areas such as Sibayo. All respondents reported using natural fertilizers, primarily composted manure from guinea pigs, sheep, cattle and alpaca, alongside organic pest control methods such as ash and soap applications. Nearly half of producers grow primarily for household or institutional consumption, with others selling small surpluses locally. Overall, the fitotoldo systems are valued for providing fresh food and reducing costs, and while many growers demonstrated a basic understanding of organic agriculture as chemical-free production, knowledge levels varied across respondents. Read more: here.

Study abroad participation continues to grow across Purdue Agriculture, with approximately 30% of 2024–25 undergraduate students completing a study abroad experience during their academic careers. Recent programs included winter break experiences in India and Peru, marking the first winter program in India, along with a strong slate of spring break opportunities. Early enrollment for summer 2026 programs is also trending positively, with more students pursuing semester-long experiences following post-pandemic shifts. These programs remain a key part of the student experience, offering hands-on, global perspectives that complement classroom learning.

Hayven Miehls (agribusiness) travels to Peru over Winter Break: Read story here.

In 2025, IPIA hosted its sixth Mandela Washington Fellows Leadership Institute in Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship, welcoming 23 Fellows from 18 Sub-Saharan African countries. The six-week program (June 18–July 27, 2025) focused on academic preparation, intercultural exchange, and community service, featuring sessions on leadership, ag technology, entrepreneurship, and a business pitch competition.

IPIA partners with Purdue faculty, industry leaders like Beck’s Hybrids and Red Gold, innovation hubs like MatchBOX and nonprofits including Food Finders. The fellows build lasting connections with the Purdue community, local businesses and civic leaders, gaining skills and relationships that support their ventures back home. Intercultural events foster mutual understanding and cultural awareness across participants and hosts. For more information Visit our website.

D. Woods Thomas Memorial Scholarships