In 2025 (May 13), Brazilian microbiologist Mariangela Hungria was awarded the prestigious World Food Prize, often referred to as the Nobel Prize of Agriculture, for her groundbreaking innovations that helped position Brazil as a global leader in sustainable farming.
An Inspiring Journey
Born in Itapetininga, São Paulo, in 1958, Mariangela decided to pursue science at the age of 8 after reading Microbe Hunters, a book gifted by her grandmother. She earned her degree in Agronomy from ESALQ/USP in 1979 and joined Embrapa in 1982, where she began researching biological nitrogen fixation (pt.wikipedia.org).
Sustainable Innovations
Over four decades at Embrapa Soja, in Londrina (PR), Mariangela developed more than 30 microbiological technologies that allow crops to absorb nutrients naturally, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. These innovations have been applied across more than 40 million hectares in Brazil, particularly in key crops like soybeans, corn, rice, and beans (seedworld.com).
Her research with bacteria such as Rhizobium and Azospirillum brasilense significantly boosted agricultural productivity. Brazil’s soybean output, for example, increased from 15 million tons in 1979 to an expected 173 million tons in the upcoming harvest (downtoearth.org.in).
Global Recognition
The 2025 World Food Prize recognized Mariangela for her exceptional contributions to sustainable agriculture. Her work not only boosted crop yields but also promoted eco-friendly practices that lower greenhouse gas emissions and protect natural ecosystems (cast-science.org).
Breaking Barriers
Mariangela overcame significant obstacles as a woman and young mother in a male-dominated field. With resilience and determination, she balanced her scientific career with family life, including raising a daughter with special needs — a story that stands as a powerful example of perseverance (bbc.com).
A Lasting Legacy
In addition to the World Food Prize, Mariangela has received multiple honors, including the Women in Science Award and the National Order of Scientific Merit. She is also a full member of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences and the Brazilian Academy of Agronomic Science (bbc.com).
Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and reinforces the vital role of research and innovation in building a more sustainable and equitable global food system.
