Danforth Center Principal Investigator Honored for Translating Science Into Real-World Agricultural Solutions 

ST. LOUIS, MO, March 27, 2026 -Donald Danforth Plant Science Center Principal Investigator Nadia Shakoor, PhD, has been selected to receive the inaugural Innovation Award from The Academy of Science – St. Louis at their 28th Annual Outstanding St. Louis Scientists Awards. 

The Innovation Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to their field by translating new scientific knowledge, discoveries, or inventions into practical applications that solve problems and create meaningful societal impact. 

Dr. Shakoor is a principal investigator at the Danforth Center and co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Agrela Ecosystems, a St. Louis–based technology company. Since joining the Danforth Center in 2014, she has led major multi-institutional initiatives advancing crop genomics and field phenotyping. 

Her research connects field monitoring data with crop genetics and has developed cutting-edge sensor platforms, including the PheNode and FieldDock, that quantify how crops perform across variable environments. These tools help researchers and growers collect, interpret, and apply high-quality agricultural data in real-world field conditions.  

Her research has a particular focus on sorghum, a drought-tolerant and heat-resistant crop with significant potential for sustainable agriculture. By linking crop genetics with advanced sensing technology, Dr. Shakoor's work helps accelerate the development of crop varieties that can thrive in challenging environments — contributing to a more resilient and food-secure global food system. 

“Innovation in plant science isn't just about discovery; it’s about impact,” said Dr. Shakoor. “It’s about making sure discoveries are translated into tools, data, and insights that can be used in real agricultural systems at meaningful scale.” 

In addition to Dr. Shakoor, The Academy of Science – St. Louis will recognize other individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the advancement of science, engineering, and technology. An awards ceremony will take place on April 8, 2026, at the Missouri Botanical Garden. More information about each of the honorees is available at academyofsciencestl.org/awards.

About the Academy of Science – St. Louis

Founded in 1856, the Academy of Science – St. Louis is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting science literacy, education, and collaboration throughout the region. The Academy of Science seeks to advance St. Louis as a scientific powerhouse – where science is trusted and scientists thrive.

About the Danforth Center   

Founded in 1998, the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center is the largest independent nonprofit dedicated to plant science in the world. With a mission to improve the human condition through plant science, the Center conducts plant science research to feed people and improve human health, preserve and renew the environment, and innovate for economic development in the US and around the world. For more information, visit danforthcenter.org.

Media Contacts:
Kristina DeYong | Public Information Officer, Danforth Center | kdeyong@danforthcenter.org 

Christina Carlson | Chief of Staff, Academy of Science – St. Louis | ccarlson@academyofsciencestl.org