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About the Award

The CAST Science Communication Scholarship is an annual award recognizing excellence in communicating agricultural science. Each year, CAST awards one student with a $1,000 scholarship for their outstanding ability to translate complex agricultural topics into messages that are clear, accurate, creative, and impactful.

This award reflects CAST’s mission to advance science-based communication and to support the next generation of leaders shaping the future of food, agriculture, and the environment.
2026 CAST Awards Ceremony — Library of Congress

December 10, 2026 · 6 PM ET · Washington, DC

The scholarship will be presented alongside the Borlaug CAST Communication Award (BCCA) and the CAST Lifetime Achievement Award (CLAA).

December 10 marks the anniversary of Dr. Norman Borlaug’s Nobel Peace Prize acceptance in 1970. U.S.-based recipients receive travel sponsorship; international recipients participate virtually.
Eligibility & Judging

Applications are open to CAST Student Members only. CAST Student Memberships are free for students from CAST Organizational Member universities, and $39/year for students from non-member universities. Check if your university is a CAST member here.

Both undergraduate and graduate students are eligible. Applicants who are not yet members may join when applying.

Applications will be reviewed by representatives from CAST’s Animal, Plant, and Food Work Groups, ensuring a multidisciplinary and science-driven evaluation.
Judging Criteria

Applicants will be evaluated on four key dimensions:

  1. Clarity – How effectively complex science is explained in accessible language.
  2. Accuracy – Adherence to scientific rigor and factual correctness.
  3. Creativity – Innovative use of formats, storytelling, or media.
  4. Impact – Reach or influence on diverse audiences, including farmers, consumers, and policymakers.
How to Apply

To apply, students must submit:

  • Essay (500–700 words)
    • Why is science communication important in agriculture, and how have you contributed? Describe your approach, provide examples of your work, and share how you aim to grow as a communicator.
  • Supporting Materials
    • Examples of communication work such as articles, videos, podcasts, graphics, or presentations.
  • Short Bio (100 words)
    • For CAST announcements if selected.
  • CAST Student Membership
Sponsors
Award Details
💰 Scholarship
$1,000
📅 Deadline
July 31, 2026
🏛️ Ceremony
December 10, 2026
6 PM ET · Library of Congress, DC
🎓 Eligibility
CAST Student Members
Undergrad & graduate · Free or $39/yr
✈️ Travel
Sponsored (U.S.)
International recipients attend virtually
Apply Now!

Please use your institutional (.edu) email address when applying. Applications submitted with personal email addresses (Gmail, Yahoo, etc.) will not be considered.

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Your donation to CAST helps support the CAST mission of communicating science to meet the challenge of producing enough food, fiber and fuel for a growing population. Every gift, no matter the size, is appreciated.
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