USDA Chief Scientist to Deliver Heuermann Lecture April

By Scout Nelson

Scott Hutchins, Chief Scientist and Undersecretary for Research, Education, and Economics at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, will deliver the Heuermann Lecture on April 28. His talk will focus on “Advancing Agricultural Innovation” and highlight the future of agriculture.

The event will take place at 3 p.m. in the Great Plains Room of the Nebraska East Union on East Campus. A reception will follow at 4:30 p.m. The lecture will include a fireside chat with Tiffany Heng-Moss, Vice Chancellor for the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

In his current role, Hutchins leads major research and economic programs within USDA. These include the Agricultural Research Service, Economic Research Service, National Agricultural Statistics Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, and the Office of the Chief Scientist. His leadership helps guide research, data, and innovation efforts that support farmers and the agriculture industry.

Hutchins has strong experience in both government and private sectors. Earlier, he served as USDA deputy undersecretary and helped develop the USDA Science Blueprint and the U.S. Ag Innovation Strategy. Before joining USDA, he worked as the global research and development leader for Dow Agrosciences, now known as Corteva Agriscience.

He holds a doctoral degree in entomology and has served as president of the Entomological Society of America. He also contributes as an adjunct professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

The Heuermann Lecture series focuses on sustainability in food production, natural resources, and renewable energy. It also supports the long-term growth of rural communities. The series is funded through a gift from B. Keith and Norma Heuermann, showing their commitment to agriculture and rural development.

This event provides students, researchers, and industry professionals with a valuable opportunity to learn from a leading expert in agricultural innovation and policy. Registration can be completeted online.

Photo Credit: university-nebraska–lincoln