Recognizing the importance of rice and wheat in global food security, Monsanto Company pledged $10 million to improve yields in these crops as part of its commitment to sustainable yield. Monsantos Beachell-Borlaug International Scholars Program is the result of that pledge. Monsanto established this program in 2009 in honor of two of the worlds most pre-eminent rice and wheat breeders: Drs. Henry Beachell and Norman Borlaug. Their lifelong work laid the foundation for the tremendous increases in rice and wheat production that continue to help feed the world today.

The primary objective of this prestigious fellowship program is to develop highly educated rice and wheat plant breeders who can serve as future agricultural leaders. It will be administered by Texas AgriLife Research, an agency of the Texas A&M University System. To achieve this, Monsantos Beachell-Borlaug International Scholars program:

Provides a full package of support, including a generous student stipend, tuition, applicable fees, health insurance, research fees and travel, as well as funds for the collaborating institution and advising professor

Supports projects that allow the student to develop advanced breeding techniques, as well as experience conducting at least one season of field work in a developing country Is open to students worldwide who are seeking a Ph.D. in rice or wheat plant breeding