Andrew Scaboo, associate professor of plant science and technology, received the 2026 Outstanding Mid-Career Research Award at CAFNR’s Celebration of Excellence awards ceremony April 23.  

Scaboo conducts applied and basic breeding studies to improve soybean seed composition and disease resistance against soybean cyst nematode. Since 2019, his output has included 62 invention disclosures, 71 commercial licenses, 4 provisional patents and 47 refereed journal articles. He has secured more than $12 million in research funding, putting him among the top 10 in CAFNR for the past decade. He has worked with soybean breeders in Africa to help them improve their variety development efforts. 

Scaboo’s soybean releases directly address the evolving needs of farmers and the agricultural industry, resulting in improved yields, enhanced pest and disease resistance, and superior seed quality. 

“His ability to think ahead, think deeply, formulate a research plan, and execute the research is remarkable,” said Melissa Mitchum, Barry Bustillo Distinguished Professor of Plant Nematology at University of Georgia. “He functions with the highest level of integrity, a positive attitude, inquisitive nature, and strong work ethic. Moreover, he is an excellent collaborator and serves as a great role model for students.” 

“Dr. Scaboo is among the most accomplished and impactful mid-career scientists working in soybean breeding today,” said Asheesh Singh, associate dean, Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and fellow soybean breeder. “He has already exhibited exceptional national leadership in soybean breeding, with particular distinction in research on high-oleic acid content and soybean cyst nematode resistance. Dr. Scaboo’s work has positioned the University of Missouri at the forefront of soybean research nationally.”