By Jamie Martin
The USDA is moving forward with plans to use artificial intelligence to advance agricultural research and crop development.
Later this year, the agency is expected to launch an Agricultural National Science & Technology Challenge through AgARDA and the Genesis Mission. The program will bring together researchers, technology developers, universities, and industry partners to create practical AI solutions for agriculture.
The goal is to help scientists better use the large amount of germplasm data collected through research programs. Germplasm contains important genetic information that supports plant breeding and the development of improved crop varieties. However, analyzing this information can be complex and time-consuming.
“USDA is taking concrete steps to give scientists the modern tools they need to innovate agricultural solutions from the vast plant data that they collect,” said REE Under Secretary and USDA Chief Scientist Dr. Scott Hutchins. “When our partners help us to solve agricultural challenges by using AI tools, we’ll unlock faster discoveries with germplasm data and grow better crops that strengthen our food system for many future generations.”
The upcoming challenge will encourage participants to build tools capable of combining images, field data, laboratory findings, and other research information into a single system. Such tools could help researchers identify important crop traits faster and make more informed decisions.
USDA officials believe AI can speed scientific discovery and provide researchers with modern technology needed to address agricultural challenges. Faster access to insights from plant data could support the development of crops with improved productivity, resilience, and long-term sustainability.
The initiative is part of the broader Genesis Mission, a national effort introduced in 2025 to use artificial intelligence for solving major scientific and technological challenges. The mission promotes collaboration among leading universities, businesses, scientists, government agencies, and research organizations across the United States.
Participants in the challenge are expected to benefit from advanced scientific infrastructure that connects datasets, instruments, and AI resources. USDA officials say more information about the competition will be announced in the future.
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Categories: National