Dr. Rene Van Acker: Innovation in Agriculture & Food | Ep. 77

In this episode of The Crop Science Podcast Show, Dr. Rene Van Acker, interim president and vice-chancellor at the University of Guelph, discusses the evolving role of research, education, and technology in modern crop production. He shares insights on weed science, agricultural innovation, and the importance of industry-academia collaboration in driving sustainability and productivity. Listen now on all major platforms!

"The greatest opportunities in agriculture today lie in the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and science-driven solutions for global food challenges."

Meet the guest: Dr. Rene Van Acker is the interim president and vice-chancellor at the University of Guelph, previously serving as vice-president of research and innovation and dean of the Ontario Agricultural College. His research focuses on weed biology, cropping systems, multifunctional agriculture, and the coexistence of GM and non-GM crops. He holds a BSc and MSc in crop science and weed management from the University of Guelph and a PhD in crop-weed ecology from the University of Reading in the UK. A leader in agricultural research and innovation, he has led major initiatives, and secured over $100 million in funding.

What you will learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:25) Introduction
• (02:00) Dr. Van Acker’s journey
• (12:25) Weed science innovations
• (18:31) Agricultural research
• (22:30) Opportunities in ag technology
• (24:27) Technology adoption
• (26:09) Final three questions

The Crop Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:

- S&W Seed Co.

- KWS

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

Website: The Crop Science Podcast Show

Instagram: The Crop Science Podcast Show

LinkedIn: The Crop Science Podcast Show