Thomas Jayne, a Michigan State University professor of agriculture, food and resource economics, has been awarded the title of MSU Foundation Professor, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to research and instruction.
“As a thought leader in agricultural economics, Thom certainly advances the university’s reputation in an area of long-term institutional excellence,” said MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon. “But more importantly, his work in Africa is making a difference in people’s lives. Thom is paving the way for a sustainable future there by helping to confront a number of ‘grand challenges.’”
“This award recognizes Professor Jayne’s many accomplishments and supports the continuation of his significant research,” said MSU Provost June Pierce Youatt. “MSU Foundation Professorships demonstrate the university’s commitment to invest in our outstanding faculty scholars.”
Jayne’s research on farm productivity and land use in Africa has influenced numerous policies and programs there. He serves as an adjunct professor at the Indaba Agricultural Policy Research Institute in Lusaka, Zambia, and was named a Distinguished Fellow of the African Association of Agriculture Economists in 2013.
Jayne is an editorial board member of two leading journals: “Food Policy” and “Economics Research International.” He also co-directs several grants from the Gates Foundation focusing on building sustainable research capacity in Africa.
“Thom’s research on agricultural intensification in Africa has made him a renowned expert,” said Fred Poston, dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “There are very few conversations related to transforming Africa’s agricultural economy that don’t include Thom or cite his many publications. In addition, his mentorship of graduate students has developed other experts in this field, with many of them now holding positions at top universities.”
Jayne is highly involved with the International Food Policy Research Institute, where he works with other scientists to influence government policymakers.
“It is our mission to provide world-class solutions to human challenges,” said Stephen Hsu, vice president for research and graduate studies. “In Dr. Jayne, we have an MSU professor not only demonstrating excellence in research but leveraging that research to make an impact.”
The title is bestowed by MSU, with support from the MSU Foundation, as part of an initiative to attract and retain top researchers critical to meeting the strategic initiatives of the university. Jayne will receive supplemental research support over five years and hold the MSU Foundation Professor designation permanently.
“It is our pleasure to support this program, which recognizes outstanding faculty and develops international distinction for the university,” said MSU Foundation Executive Director David Washburn. “We look forward to Dr. Jayne’s continued work with much enthusiasm.”