In a significant opportunity to advocate for federal funding for agricultural research, Pradeep Kumar, a doctoral candidate within Davis College’s Department of Plant & Soil Science, recently participated in a Congressional Visit Day 2025 in Washington, D.C.
The event organized by the Agronomy, Crop Science & Soil Science Society of America (ASA CSSA SSSA), brought together students, researchers and professionals from across the country to engage directly with policymakers. Kumar participated on behalf of the National Association of Plant Breeders (NAPB) and ASA, CSSA and SSSA.
Kumar was one of only two student representatives selected by NAPB to take part in the event. A diverse group of scientists and graduate students in plant breeding and related fields, the organization fosters networking between public and private sectors, provides advocacy for plant breeding, and advances excellence in research, education and outreach.
“In past years, student representatives for this event have typically come from universities with well-established breeding programs, making Pradeep’s selection even more significant,” said Yinping Jiao, an assistant professor within the Texas Tech’s cutting-edge Institute of Genomics for Crop Abiotic Stress Tolerance. “His participation not only reflects his own achievements but also showcases the growing recognition of our program.”
As part of the Texas delegation, Kumar’s group met with seven congressional offices, including senators, representatives and their staff. During the visit, they highlighted the importance of USDA research and funding in driving agricultural innovation, supporting farmers, strengthening the food supply chain, and benefiting producers and consumers.
“Investing in agricultural research supports innovation, strengthens our food systems, and helps farmers tackle challenges,” Kumar said. “Participating in these conversations reinforced my belief that research and policy must go hand in hand to create a sustainable future for agriculture.”
At Texas Tech, Kumar is currently conducting sorghum breeding and genetics research under the guidance of Jiao and Chad Hayes, a Department of Plant & Soil Science adjunct faculty member, and a research sorghum geneticist at the USDA-ARS Cropping Systems Research Laboratory in Lubbock.
CONTACT: Glen Ritchie, Professor and Chair, Department of Plant & Soil Science, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-4325 or glen.ritchie@ttu.edu
0514NM25