The World Food Prize Foundation

2025 Top Agri-food Pioneers

Magdi Elsayed

Egypt | Agriculture for Arid Environments

Magdi Elsayed has led transformative work in environmental stress management, precision agriculture and high-throughput phenotyping. He applies cutting-edge tools such as infrared thermography, spectral imaging, AI-driven genotype selection and smart irrigation systems to boost crop resilience in arid and semi-arid environments. His leadership in EU-funded projects like SIRRIMED has pushed the frontier of circular water and nutrient reuse in food systems. His work has demonstrably improved agricultural productivity and sustainability in regions facing climate extremes. Elsayed’s findings have shaped national policies, enhanced soil and water management practices and improved food security across Africa, the Middle East and beyond. He currently contributes to policy and research innovation through leadership roles in global scientific networks and editorial boards of top agronomy journals.
 

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