Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Cereals
Led by Kansas State University, our research aims to increase the resiliency of pearl millet, rice, sorghum, and wheat. Our work supports farmers and advances the global effort to double the world’s food supply by 2050.
Our Research and Why It Matters
Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Cereals is a U.S. government-funded research program working to improve the genetics of wheat, sorghum, millet and rice. Our research focuses on strengthening these crops against environmental stressors such as disease, heat, cold, flood and drought. We bring together experts from around the world to maximize results.
Crop improvements deliver real returns by reducing disaster-related losses and steadying food and feed supplies. A strong U.S. agricultural sector helps stabilize our economy, impacts economic growth, boosts markets and contributes to national security.
Cereal Crops
The Cereals Lab concentrates on four of the world's most important cereals to increase production, resilience and long-term food supply.
Global Challenges
Latest News
Science Snapshot: Developing Heat-Tolerant Rice to Protect U.S. and Global Harvests
September 2026U.S. farmers produce a rice crop worth roughly $3 billion annually, but heat waves can threaten both harvest size and grain quality.
For example, in Louisiana alone, drought and excessive heat imposed approximately $155 million in economic losses and additional costs on rice production in 2023. Developing heat-tolerant varieties could help farmers protect their investment and maintain production during hot seasons.