By Scout Nelson
Benjamin Karikari’s journey in agriculture began in a farming community in Ghana, where he developed a deep understanding of farming challenges. His early experiences inspired him to pursue higher education in agriculture and build a career focused on sustainable food systems.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture and later completed a master’s degree in agronomy in Ghana. He then continued his studies in China, where he earned a doctoral degree in crop genetics and breeding, focusing on soybean improvement. His strong academic background prepared him for advanced research and teaching roles.
In September 2025, Karikari joined the University of Nebraska-Lincoln as an assistant professor in plant science. In this role, he teaches both undergraduate and graduate students. His courses cover important subjects such as genetics, plant nutrition, biotechnology, and soil science. He uses practical teaching methods to help students learn modern research tools and techniques.
Karikari also leads a research program that focuses on improving crop productivity and resilience. His work combines plant physiology, genetics, and breeding to address issues such as drought, nutrient shortages, and climate stress. His research mainly focuses on crops like soybean, corn, and other legumes.
“My research program focuses on improving crop productivity, resilience and nutrient use efficiency, particularly in major crops such as soybean, corn and other legume crops,” Karikari said. “My work integrates plant physiology, functional genomics and breeding to address challenges related to nutrient limitation, drought and climate stress.”
Before entering academia, Karikari worked as an agricultural extension officer in Ghana for more than five years. He helped farmers improve production practices and manage pests. This experience shaped his approach, ensuring that his research remains practical and useful for farmers.
He believes that research should directly benefit farmers and improve their livelihoods. His work continues to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and real-world farming needs, supporting sustainable agriculture and better crop production.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-oticki
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Soybeans, Education