WashU Unites Plant Science, Public Health, and Agtech; Launches FARM to Transform Food Systems
- April 22, 2025
Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) has launched the Food and Agriculture Research Mission (FARM) to tackle global food security challenges. Housed in the School of Public Health, FARM will drive innovation in agriculture, food distribution, and nutrition through interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge research. According to its website, “The goal of FARM is to make WashU a world leader in both research and innovation across plant science, public health, and agtech.”
WashU is situated in St. Louis, a major hub for agricultural science and technology. More than half of the nation’s food production is within 500 miles, giving researchers direct access to farmers, agribusiness leaders, and real-world agricultural scenarios. The region is also home to one of the highest concentrations of plant scientists in the world, making it a powerhouse for agricultural innovation.
St. Louis boasts a dynamic agricultural and biotech ecosystem, including:
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center: the world’s largest independent plant research institute.
- 39 North: a 600-acre innovation district dedicated to advancing agricultural technology (AgTech) and biosciences.
- BioSTL: a nonprofit organization that fosters collaborative efforts to advance innovation and entrepreneurship, building upon St. Louis’ world-class bioscience infrastructure.
- Cortex Innovation District: a 200-acre hub that fosters biotech and life sciences entrepreneurship.
- Missouri Botanical Garden: a leader in plant conservation and genetics.
This robust ecosystem provides WashU with a rich network of scientific collaborators, industry partners, and access to cutting-edge research facilities.
WashU is known for fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, making it an ideal institution to bridge the gap between agriculture, health, and technology. By bringing together top researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers, FARM will create scalable, real-world solutions that benefit both farmers and consumers.
“Universities exist to tackle the world’s toughest challenges, and at WashU, we’re doubling down on that mission,” Provost Beverly Wendland said. “With the launch of our School of Public Health and FARM, we have the opportunity to bring together the best scientists with partners in industry, government and philanthropy to drive impactful change and advance human health.”