UMass Amherst is launching a $120 million effort to address real-world concerns as the global food system faces critical challenges related to climate change and sustainability, food safety and a growing population expected to reach 10 billion people by 2050. The initiative will include a new 36,000 square foot research facility, a multidisciplinary collaborative research center, an endowed chair in food science and three endowed faculty positions who will examine crucial questions about the future of our global food system.
The Future of Food Initiative will be funded from four $30 million tranches: generous donors, Paul and Diane Manning, through their family foundation; the Commonwealth of Massachusetts; UMass Amherst; and an additional $30 million to be raised by the UMass Amherst Foundation.
“UMass Amherst—with the nation’s number-one programs in food science and agriculture sciences and distinguished programs in engineering, public health, computer science, design, business and other areas, along with its innovative campus dining program—is uniquely positioned to solve the biggest, most critical challenges facing the world’s food system and promote innovative and transformative solutions to capitalize on opportunities that benefit of the common good,” said UMass Amherst Chancellor Javier A. Reyes. “UMass is committed to supporting cutting-edge research, providing hands-on student training and fostering external partnerships to drive transformative solutions that strengthen climate-resilient agriculture, expand food equity and production, and create a healthier, more sustainable future of food for all.”
Read more at Future of Food Initiative