Derek Barchenger Named Norman E Borlaug Field Awardee

Arkansas Alumnus Recognized for Global Pepper Breeding Research

• Bonnie Johnson
• October 15, 2025
• Media Article

Arkansas alumnus Derek Barchenger receives the Borlaug Field Award for his groundbreaking work in global pepper breeding, improving crop resilience and supporting smallholder farmers across the world.

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University of Arkansas alumnus Derek Barchenger has been named the Norman E. Borlaug Field Award recipient for Field Research and Application, endowed by the Rockefeller Foundation.
 

Barchenger serves as Senior Scientist and Head of the Global Pepper Breeding Program at the World Vegetable Center, where he leads international research to improve pepper varieties and farmer livelihoods.
 

The Borlaug Award recognizes young agricultural professionals under 40 for science-based achievements in global food security. Barchenger credits his success to teamwork and shared purpose. “This recognition is truly about the collaborative work of many,” Barchenger says.
  

“My colleagues at the World Vegetable Center, our global partners and, most importantly, the smallholder farmers whose knowledge and determination inspire everything we do.”
 

Raised on a family farm in Oklahoma, Barchenger developed an early interest in plants and breeding. His academic journey led him to earn both a master’s degree in horticulture and hands-on experience at the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences. He praised the support of his adviser, Dr. John Clark, for his mentorship and guidance, which shaped his career foundation.
 

At the World Vegetable Center, Barchenger expanded a small team into a global network of more than 20 researchers across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. His leadership has resulted in over 40 new pepper varieties since 2018, including heat-tolerant and disease-resistant plants. These innovations help farmers increase yield, reduce losses, and adapt to changing climates.
 

Identified as a world leader in pepper breeding, Barchenger has trained more than 300 scientists and students and co-authored over 45 research papers. His leadership extends to global initiatives, including projects supporting vegetable production in 14 Asian countries.
 

Barchenger’s dedication reflects the vision of Norman Borlaug himself — advancing agricultural science to fight hunger and empower communities worldwide through innovation, education, and collaboration.
 

Photo by: uark.edu