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U of G soil scientist wins 2023 Steacie Prize

Dr. Asim Biswas. Photo Credit: University of Guelph

Dr. Asim Biswas, a professor in the School of Environmental Sciences within the University of Guelph’s Ontario Agricultural College, has been awarded the 2023 Steacie Prize, one of Canada’s most prestigious awards for researchers 40 years old or younger.

The award is named in memory of E.W.R. Steacie, a physical chemist and former president of the National Research Council of Canada.

A soil science expert, Biswas aims to increase agricultural production while improving environmental sustainability.

“It could take up to 1,000 years for an inch of soil to form. It is not a renewable resource,” he said. “Data-driven soil management practices can help us better manage the soil we have now and manage it for tomorrow.”

Much like a doctor uses medical tests to understand a patient’s health, diagnostic measurements can provide information that helps producers look after their soil, U of G officials said in an April 2 news release.

Biswas and his research group develop data management tools, soil sensors, and soil maps to improve decision-making about soil health and sustainability. Their work enables producers to minimize inputs like water and fertilizer, enhance crop yields and increase overall farm efficiency, while also protecting the environment.

“This is a tremendous honour for Dr. Biswas and the entire University,” said Dr. Rene Van Acker, U of G’s interim vice-president (research). “This prestigious award speaks to the excellence and impact of Asim’s research, which is helping foster the resiliency of agri-food productions systems in Canada and around the world.”

The Steacie Prize has been awarded annually since 1964 by the trustees of the E.W.R. Steacie Memorial Fund, a private foundation dedicated to the advancement of science and engineering in Canada, to a young scientist or engineer who has made notable contributions to research in Canada.