By Andi Anderson
Purdue University continues to strengthen its commitment to agricultural research, education, and global engagement through new leadership appointments and innovative research initiatives. Recent developments highlight the university’s focus on addressing important agricultural, environmental, and food system challenges.
The Purdue University Board of Trustees recently approved several significant appointments. Among them was the ratification of Channing Arndt as the Robert and Karen Thompson Chair in International Agricultural Economics. A respected scholar in international agriculture and trade, Arndt currently serves as director of the Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP) at Purdue University.
Arndt previously served as a faculty member at Purdue from 1998 to 2007 and returned in 2025 as a research professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics. His appointment reflects the university’s ongoing dedication to advancing research related to global trade, development, and agricultural policy.
The Robert and Karen Thompson Chair in International Agricultural Economics was established in 2023 by former Purdue dean of agriculture Bob Thompson and his wife, Karen Thompson. The position was created to support leading research and academic excellence in international agricultural economics while strengthening the university’s global focus.
Purdue also announced leadership advancements within its academic programs. Carson Reeling was named co-director of the Natural Resources and Environmental Science (NRES) program alongside Elizabeth Flaherty, Professor of Wildlife Ecology and Habitat Management in the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources. Their combined expertise is expected to contribute to the continued growth and success of the interdisciplinary program.
In addition to leadership appointments, Purdue researchers are expanding efforts to address global food and environmental challenges. Jonathan Bauchet and Jacob Ricker-Gilbert are leading an international and interdisciplinary project focused on understanding how climate change is influencing foodborne disease risks in low- and middle-income countries.
The project combines global evidence reviews, advanced economic modeling, and stakeholder engagement across Africa and the Middle East. Researchers aim to identify emerging threats, improve food safety understanding, and strengthen resilience within food systems facing climate-related pressures.
The initiative builds on years of research involving smallholder farmers and food systems through programs such as the Food Processing Innovation Lab and the Purdue Improved Crop Storage initiative. Findings from the project are expected to help guide future research priorities and support policy development aimed at reducing foodborne illnesses.
These appointments and research efforts demonstrate Purdue University’s commitment to advancing agricultural knowledge, supporting global food security, and developing practical solutions to environmental and economic challenges. Through leadership, innovation, and collaboration, the university continues to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient agricultural future.
Photo Credit: purdue-university
Categories: Indiana, Education