The CAST Annual Meeting brings together leaders in agricultural science, science communication, and innovation for a dynamic three-day event hosted by Bayer CropScience in St. Louis, MO. Under the theme “Science That Feeds Tomorrow,” this gathering asks a defining question: as the world and agriculture undergo profound change, which researchers and research areas are building the foundation for a resilient and productive future?
During this gathering, CAST Student Members, CAST Board of Directors, CAST Workgroup, and Strategic Advisory Council members will engage in keynote presentations, panel discussions, and tours that showcase the latest in agricultural research and advancements. (Please note: all are welcome at every event except the closed Board of Directors planning session on Wednesday.)
This is an opportunity for CAST members to connect, share ideas, and help shape the future of our organization and the agricultural sciences community.
*Registration is open to CAST Student Members, CAST Board of Directors, CAST Workgroup, and Strategic Advisory Council members. All registered participants are welcome at every event except the closed Board of Directors session on Wednesday morning.
The CAST Student Innovation Conference is an opportunity for CAST Student members to showcase original research, connect with leaders in agricultural science, and gain valuable experience presenting to an engaged and knowledgeable audience. Held alongside the 2026 CAST Annual Meeting in St. Louis, MO, this event empowers the next generation of agricultural innovators.
While all agricultural topics are welcome, the 2026 conference will spotlight research that speaks to the theme “Science That Feeds Tomorrow” — work that addresses the challenges and opportunities defining the future of food and agriculture. Topics of particular interest include:
The student poster session will take place during the CAST Dinner on Monday, October 26, when the CAST Student Innovation Awards (1st, 2nd, and 3rd place) will be announced.
Space is limited to 15 poster presentations. Register early to secure your spot.
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 4:00 PM |
Welcome Dinner & Student Innovation Competition (SIC)
Grant's Farm
Board of Directors · SAC Members · Workgroup Members · Student Members
|
| 5:15 PM |
Poster Presentations & Cocktail Hour
Grant's Farm
Student poster presentations with cocktail hour. Prizes of $1,000, $500, and $250 awarded for top posters after dinner.
|
| 6:30 PM |
Dinner & Welcome Remarks
Grant's Farm
Dinner followed by welcome remarks and guest speaker.
|
| 8:00 PM |
Bus
Bus departs Grant's Farm for hotel.
|
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 7:45 AM |
Bus
Bus departs hotel for Bayer Chesterfield Campus. Breakfast recommended at hotel prior to departure.
|
| 8:00 AM |
Check-in & Light Coffee Break
Bayer Chesterfield Campus
Board of Directors · SAC Members · Workgroup Members
|
| 8:30 AM |
CAST Joint Business Meeting
Bayer Chesterfield Campus — Room AA1825-4
Board of Directors · SAC Members · Workgroup Members
|
| 10:15 AM |
Bayer Chesterfield Campus Tour
Bayer Chesterfield Campus
Board of Directors · SAC Members · Workgroup Members · Student Members
|
| TBD |
Lunch at Bayer Chesterfield Campus
Bayer Chesterfield Campus
Board of Directors · SAC Members · Workgroup Members · Student Members
Hosted by Bayer. Featured presentation by CAST Science Communication Scholarship Recipient Suraksha Baral.
|
| TBD |
St. Louis Zoo
St. Louis Zoo
Board of Directors · SAC Members · Workgroup Members · Student Members
|
| TBD |
Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour
1200 Lynch St, St. Louis, MO 63118
Board of Directors · SAC Members · Workgroup Members · Student Members
Approximately 1.5 hours.
|
| TBD |
CAST Dinner — Italian on the Hill
The Hill, St. Louis
Board of Directors · SAC Members · Workgroup Members · Student Members
Networking reception and dinner.
|
| TBD |
Bus
Bus departs for hotel.
|
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 7:45 AM |
Bus
Bus departs hotel for Bayer Chesterfield Campus. Breakfast recommended at hotel prior to departure.
|
| 8:30 AM |
Coffee at Bayer Chesterfield Campus
Bayer Chesterfield Campus
Board of Directors
|
| TBD |
CAST Board of Directors Meeting — 2027 Planning
Bayer Chesterfield Campus — Room FF4104
Closed — Directors only
|
| 12:30 PM |
Box Lunch
Board of Directors
Grab-and-go for departing attendees. Working group members have a free morning and eat independently.
|
| 1:30 PM |
Bus
Bus picks up attendees from hotel for optional tour.
|
| 2:30 PM |
Optional Tour — Rose Acre Farm (Egg Processing)
Optional
|
Be part of three inspiring days of discussion, networking, and hands-on learning as we explore how agricultural science, technology, and innovation are shaping the future of food production. Secure your spot today and connect with leaders, innovators, and students from across the agricultural science community.
*Registration is open to CAST Student Members, CAST Board of Directors, CAST Workgroup, and Strategic Advisory Council members. All registered participants are welcome at every event except the closed Board of Directors session on Wednesday morning.
CAST has secured discounted hotel rates in St. Louis, MO, for meeting participants. Be sure to reserve your room by Monday, October 5, 2026, to guarantee the group rate. After this date, rooms will be released to the general public at standard rates.
Hyatt Place St. Louis Chesterfield – $135/night
St. Louis is well-connected by air, with multiple options for reaching the city depending on your location:
Several options are available for getting from St. Louis Lambert International Airport to hotels and venues in the city:
A complimentary bus service will transport participants between CAST-designated hotels and all official tours and event venues. Parking details will be provided once venue locations are confirmed.
The CAST Annual Meeting & Student Innovation Conference brings together leaders in agricultural science, technology, and communication for three days of collaboration and inspiration. Your contribution helps us provide meals, awards, transportation, and opportunities for students to shine.
Every dollar makes a difference. Join us in building a stronger future for agricultural science.
Looking to sponsor the event? Visit the sponsorship payment page here.
Minimum gift: $50 | Suggested gift: $100
Meeting Supporter
Help cover meals, supplies, and logistics.
Recognition: donor wall + digital thank-you.
Student Innovation Backer
Provide resources for student activities at the Poster Session and Innovation Conference.
Recognition: featured in CAST’s student spotlight.
Tour Booster
Support transportation for campus and industry innovation tours.
Recognition: name/logo on tour itineraries and slides.
SPONSORS
HOST
The 2026 CAST Annual Meeting & Student Innovation Conference brings together leaders in agricultural science, research, and policy for three days of collaboration, innovation, and inspiration in St. Louis, MO — hosted by Bayer CropScience.
Under the theme “Science That Feeds Tomorrow,” this event is a unique opportunity to put your organization at the center of a conversation that matters — one focused on the researchers and research shaping the future of food and agriculture.
Sponsorship opportunities include:
Each tier offers meaningful visibility and engagement opportunities throughout the event — from stage moments and named event ownership to program listings, signage, and social media recognition.
For more information or to discuss sponsorship opportunities, contact us at communications@cast-science.org.
