Dr. Jorge Dubcovsky, Wheat geneticist and Distinguished Professor in the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of California, Davis, is the 2026 winner of the World Agriculture Prize for the Developed Economies Category
For pioneering contributions to wheat genetics and genomics that have transformed global wheat improvement, strengthened food security, enhanced resilience to disease and climate challenges, and advanced the scientific foundations of sustainable agricultural productivity worldwide, the World Agriculture Prize proudly recognizes Dr. Jorge Dubcovsky as the 2026 Laureate for the Developed Economies Category.
Dr. Ibrokhim Y. Abdurakhmonov, Minister of Agriculture of Uzbekistan, is the 2026 winner of the World Agriculture Prize for the Emerging and Developing Economies category.
For pioneering contributions to plant genomics and biotechnology, visionary leadership in advancing scientific innovation and agricultural development, and distinguished public service that has strengthened food security, scientific capacity, and economic opportunity. Through transformative achievements in research, institution-building, education, and policy leadership, he has demonstrated the profound impact of science in improving agriculture and enhancing human well-being across Uzbekistan, Central Asia, and the developing world.
The Laureates will be conferred the prize at an Award Ceremony held on 28 October at Nanjing Agricultural University, the People’s Republic of China. The Ceremony will be transmitted virtually. The prizes to be conferred to the two recipients are generously sponsored by the Education Development Foundation of Nanjing Agricultural University.
