UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Auja Bywater, a doctoral student in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences, has been awarded second prize in the Global Challenges University Alliance (GCUA) 2030 research competition for her work titled “Improving Food Safety in Controlled Environment Agriculture Systems.”
GCUA 2030 is an international network of 15 universities dedicated to equipping the next generation of researchers, educators and academic leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to address the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Coordinated by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, the alliance fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and global academic expertise to tackle pressing global challenges.
Bywater’s research centers on food safety within controlled environment agriculture systems, particularly in soilless farming methods such as hydroponics. She said her work examines how pathogens interact with these systems, how they persist and how they can be controlled, contributing significantly to sustainable food production. She has conducted this research for nearly a year and a half in a biosafety level 2 laboratory, which enables the safe handling of pathogens.
Reflecting on her second-place finish, Bywater emphasized the importance of making food safety research more accessible to the public.
“The biggest opportunity of this honor is to share my research,” she said. “Many people may not fully understand the food safety risks associated with hydroponic systems. Raising awareness about food safety is really exciting, and I hope to inspire future students and professionals to explore this field.”
As part of the award, she will present her research at an upcoming GCUA 2030 webinar, during which she will share her findings with an international audience and promote interdisciplinary collaboration.
“We are so proud of Auja’s award in a very competitive field of students from the GCUA network,” said Deanna Behring, assistant dean and director for Ag Sciences Global. “Her work is increasingly important as we look for novel ways to feed the world safely while facing harsher environments. Auja has also shown great leadership on campus as the president of the INTAD Graduate Student Association, helping others find opportunities to engage.”
According to Bywater, her efforts align with several key U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, including:
- Goal 2: Zero Hunger — Enhancing food safety to improve global food security.
- Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being — Reducing risks of foodborne illnesses.
- Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation — Ensuring safe water practices in agricultural production.
Bywater’s academic journey has been marked by a strong commitment to public health and food safety. She earned her undergraduate degree in public health from Brigham Young University-Idaho and her master’s degree in food science and technology from Virginia Tech before coming to Penn State to pursue her dual doctorate in food science and in international agriculture and development.
Beyond her current research, she said she remains committed to sustainable initiatives and agricultural development. Looking ahead, she envisioned a career in government agencies or nongovernmental organizations where she can continue to advance food safety and sustainability efforts.
She also emphasized the importance of continuous learning and hands-on experience. This past summer, she traveled to the Galápagos Islands to work with hydroponic farmers, an experience she pursued to further her understanding of sustainable farming practices.
Bywater said she hopes her work exemplifies the vital role of universities and other higher education institutions in addressing global food security and sustainability challenges. Through her research, international collaborations and dedication to mentorship, she said she is striving to contribute to a more sustainable and food-secure future.