Jan Low

Jan Low

Jan Low is a prominent figure in the field of agricultural science, particularly known for her contributions to the development and promotion of biofortified crops, such as the sweet potato. Her work primarily focuses on addressing malnutrition and food security in Sub-Saharan Africa, leveraging agricultural innovations to improve health outcomes among vulnerable populations.

Early Life and Education

Jan Low was born in the United States. She pursued her higher education in the field of agriculture, earning a Bachelor's degree in International Agriculture from Cornell University. She furthered her studies by obtaining a Master's degree and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from Stanford University, where her research emphasized the economic aspects of agricultural development and food security.

Career

Throughout her career, Jan Low has worked with various international organizations, research institutes, and governmental bodies to implement agricultural projects that aim to reduce poverty and improve nutrition. She is notably associated with the International Potato Center (CIP), a key institution under the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), where she has played a crucial role in the development and dissemination of biofortified sweet potatoes.

One of her significant contributions is her involvement in the Sweet Potato for Profit and Health Initiative, which aims to improve the livelihoods of millions of people in Africa through the introduction of vitamin A-rich sweet potatoes. This initiative has been recognized for its impact on reducing vitamin A deficiency, a major public health issue in many African countries.

Awards and Recognition

Jan Low's work in agricultural development and her efforts to combat malnutrition have earned her numerous accolades. Notably, she was a co-recipient of the prestigious World Food Prize in 2016, alongside three other scientists, for their work on biofortification. This award highlighted her contributions to improving the health and nutrition of millions of people through the enhanced sweet potato.

Impact and Legacy

Jan Low's research and initiatives in the field of biofortified crops have had a significant impact on food security and nutritional outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa. Her work exemplifies how agricultural innovations can be harnessed to solve complex global health issues. Through her efforts, the biofortified sweet potato has become a symbol of successful agricultural intervention to combat malnutrition and improve the lives of the rural poor.

See Also

• Biofortification
• Food Security
• Agricultural Economics
• International Potato Center
• World Food Prize