By:
Larry Sch

Source(s):
Jim Jones JWJones@ifas.ufl.edu, (352) 392-1864 ext.289
P.K. Nair pknair@ufl.edu, (353) 846-0880
Roger Natzke natzke@ifas.ufl.edu, (352) 392-7127

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GAINESVILLE, Fla.—Jim Jones and P.K. Nair, distinguished professors in the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, were named International Fellows in November, an award established this year by UF/IFAS International Programs to recognize outstanding international work.

Jones, a professor in the agricultural and biological engineering department, was nominated for developing crop modeling systems that explore the interactions between climate, crops, soil and management. The application of this knowledge is useful in improving crop management.

He has trained 21 visiting scientists and postdoctoral associates from Africa, Asia, Europe, North and South America over the past five years. At the same time, he has given 38 invited lectures at international conferences and meetings. Jones has advised 29 graduate students during his career and has served as a committee member for an additional 50 students.

Nair, a professor of agroforestry in the School of Forest Resources and Conservation, was nominated for his pioneering work in agroforestry, which has increased the sustainability of small farming systems in the tropics. His most recent work focuses on the application of agroforestry to environmental and social issues in the southeastern United States.

The interdisciplinary program in agroforestry, which Nair established and continues to lead, has attracted high-quality domestic and international students. He has hosted more than 100 international scholars and short-term trainees.

Roger Natzke, director of international programs for UF/IFAS, said the fellows program was established by the International Programs Advisory Team to recognize faculty contributions and their impact on agriculture, natural resources and life sciences in countries outside the U.S.

He said UF/IFAS International Fellows are nominees for The International Educator of the Year Award, presented by UF’s International Center to recognize outstanding efforts by faculty. This year, UF presented the award to Thomas Oakland, a professor of educational psychology in the College of Education, as the senior faculty member, and Amie Kreppel, an assistant professor of political science in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, as junior faculty member.

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