Originally published by the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.

A globally renowned soil scientist at The Ohio State University, Rattan Lal, has been awarded the 2024 Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity for his significant contributions to global food security, climate resilience and ecosystem protection.

Lal, a Distinguished University Professor at Ohio State’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) and the founding director of the CFAES Rattan Lal Center for Carbon Management and Sequestration, was also recently named the No. 1 scientist in the world and the United States in the field of plant sciences and agronomy by Research.com.

Lal was chosen for his pioneering work in promoting a soil-centric approach to agriculture that has been recognized as a model for secure food systems that can be adapted worldwide. His innovative approaches have proven successful across various climates and geographies, demonstrating the benefits of sustainable agriculture to communities, economies and the planet, the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation said in announcing the award.

“The entire Buckeye community congratulates Dr. Lal on receiving this incredible honor and thanks him for his passionate work on global food security and solutions for our agricultural ecosystems,” said Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. “As a scientist, mentor and educator, Dr. Lal is an inspiring example that one person with vision and determination can change the world.”

Much of Lal’s work has focused on carbon sequestration in agriculture and removing atmospheric carbon for the long term, mitigating the effects of global warming and pollution. In 2000, he established the Ohio State carbon center, the longest-running U.S. institution with a focus on carbon sequestration in both natural and managed terrestrial ecosystems, particularly soils.

His dedication has earned him numerous global awards, such as the Japan Prize (2019), World Food Prize (2020), Padma Shri award (2021), and Plant Science and Agronomy Leader Award (2024), among others.

Reflecting on the significance of this recognition, Lal stated: “It’s a tremendous award for humanity. It’s an incredible honor that an organization would recognize my service to humanity at large – something beyond my imagination.”

Lal has decided to donate his share of the prize money – $350,000 – to Ohio State, noting Ohio State’s role in his career successes.

View the complete story at CFAES.