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Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences

Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences

York Distinguished Lecture Series

The York Distinguished Lecturer Series was established in 1984 through SHARE by an endowment from Dr. and Mrs. E. T. York, Jr. Each year, at least one recognized leader is nominated by faculty and invited to campus. The lecturers are individuals who have achieved outstanding international distinction in agriculture or a related discipline. The scholar is encouraged to spend a number of days on the University of Florida campus participating with faculty and students in lectures, workshops, and seminars. The lecturer also has the opportunity to establish a continuing relationship with the University as a visiting professor. The establishment of the series is in recognition of the proud contribution this university has made toward the betterment of mankind.


Past Lectures

  • 2019 - Dr. Lisa Ainsworth - Understanding and Improving Crop Responses to Global Atmospheric Change 
  • 2018 - Dr. Peter Raven - Saving Plants, Saving Ourselves
  • 2017 - Dr. Cathie Martin - What can Plants Metabolic Engineering do for Human Health? 
  • View Lecture Archives

Conferences and Presentations 

Solutions from the Land - Agriculture and Forestry in a Changing Climate

Farmers, ranchers, and foresters will talk with the chair of the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis about climate’s impact on the future of Florida agriculture and what they can do about it on August 12, 2019. 

Agriculture's Role in Mitigating Global Challenges - Dr. Robert Fraley Lecture

Dr. Robert Fraley, executive vice president and chief technology officer of the World Food Prize Laureate, visited the University of Florida on November 7, 2014, to discuss crop biotechnology.

To learn how efficiency gains allow us to promote more with less, watch the recorded lecture below.

USDA NIFA Presentations

Dr. Scott Angle 

Dr. Scott Angle, who was sworn in as director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture on October 29, 2018, visited the University of Florida on April 2, 2019, to discuss balancing land grant capacity with NIFA.

Dr. Sonny Ramaswamy Lecture

Dr. Sonny Ramaswamy, who was appointed the director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture on May 7, 2012, visited the University of Florida on March 30, 2016, to discuss social challenges and nutritional security.