The Council for Agricultural Science and Technology (CAST) proudly announces the CAST Science Communication Scholarship, a new 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.
💰 Scholarship Amount: $1,000
🎓 Eligibility: The CAST Science Communication Scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate students who are either CAST Student Members or enrolled at a CAST member university during the 2025 academic year. Applicants who are not yet members may apply for membership at the time of submission.
🧠 Judging: Applications will be reviewed by representatives from CAST’s Animal, Plant, and Food Work Groups, ensuring a multidisciplinary and science-driven evaluation.
📅 Application Deadline: November 7, 2025
🏛️ Award Ceremony: Presented at the Borlaug CAST Communication Award (BCCA) Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on December 2, 2025.
✈️ Travel Support: U.S.-based recipients will receive travel sponsorship to attend in person. International recipients will participate virtually.
Applicants will be evaluated on four key dimensions:
Clarity – How effectively complex science is explained in accessible language.
Accuracy – Adherence to scientific rigor and factual correctness.
Creativity – Innovative use of formats, storytelling, or media.
Impact – Reach or influence on diverse audiences, including farmers, consumers, and policymakers.
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:
Applicants must be current members or join when applying.
Applications close November 7, 2025.
🎓 Award:
$1,000 Scholarship
🗓️ Application Deadline:
November 7, 2025
🏛️ Award Ceremony:
December 2, 2025
Washington, D.C.
✈️ Travel Support:
🌐 Eligibility:
Open to CAST Student Members and students currently enrolled at CAST member universities (undergraduate or graduate level). Applicants who are not yet members may join CAST when submitting their application.
🧠 Judging:
Applications will be reviewed by representatives of CAST’s Animal, Plant, and Food Work Groups, ensuring a multidisciplinary and science-based evaluation.
Questions? communications@cast-science.org
