Dr. Mariangela Hungria is a Brazilian agronomist and microbiologist with Embrapa Soybean, renowned for her pioneering research in biological nitrogen fixation. For more than forty years, she has worked to reduce agriculture’s dependence on chemical fertilizers by promoting the use of beneficial microorganisms, delivering both economic and environmental benefits. Her research on rhizobia and plant growth–promoting bacteria has saved Brazil billions of dollars in fertilizer imports while cutting greenhouse gas emissions, positioning the country as a global leader in sustainable agriculture. In 2025, Dr. Hungria became the first Brazilian woman to receive the prestigious World Food Prize, honoring her lifelong contributions to science, sustainability and food security. A strong advocate for linking laboratory research with field application, she has collaborated closely with farmers to ensure practical adoption of biologicals. She is also a vocal supporter of women’s leadership in agriculture, emphasizing their central role in global food and nutritional security.

Q1: You were among the first women leaders recognized in the Women in Agriculture series, at a time when not many celebrated your work. Today, the world is recognizing your persistence and belief in biologicals. How does this moment feel?

I clearly remember that first conversation years ago. Never could I have imagined receiving such a prize. For me, this recognition is more than personal. It is an opportunity to speak about biologicals on a global stage. When I began over four decades ago, the belief was that chemicals were the only future. I never doubted there was an essential role for biologicals in agriculture, not only for small family farms but also for large scale production. At the beginning, it was not easy. As a young agronomist, discouragement came often, with warnings that a future without chemicals was impossible. Giving up was never an option, and this prize validates a lifelong commitment to advancing biologicals in agriculture.

Q2: One thing that stands out about your work is how closely you link science with farmers and sustainability. How has your journey evolved in recent years, particularly in Brazil?

Science is fundamental and we cannot advance without it. I always wanted to be a scientist, even as a child. But here in Brazil, science alone is not enough. Knowledge must be applied to the benefit of farmers. I have always dedicated time to bringing research from the lab to the farm, transforming knowledge into products farmers can use. The satisfaction of publishing a paper is immense, but equally powerful are the messages from farmers who report improved yields and newfound confidence in using biologicals. While the award has brought visibility and recognition, the journey continues with the same focus: advancing science and ensuring its benefits reach the field.

Q3: Your pioneering research in nitrogen fixation has been described as transformative. What made your work successful in the field, and are there other practices you believe deserve greater attention?

Success in nitrogen fixation, particularly with soybeans, rests on one principle: rigorous field testing. Too many studies rely on one or two trials. Testing across crops, regions and conditions, and proving benefits directly to farmers, has been crucial. Biologicals also bring independence. Unlike chemical molecules controlled by multinationals, biological solutions can be developed locally. Each country has its own biodiversity, its own strengths. This creates opportunities for innovation without dependence on imported molecules.

As for overlooked practices, nitrogen fixation in legumes stands out. We have decades of research, nearly 100 selected strains across legumes, trees and pastures, with proven capacity to fix hundreds of kilograms of nitrogen. Yet in many places, adoption remains limited to soybeans. The potential is enormous—we already have solutions, but they are underutilized.

Q4: Brazil is often praised for leading with its Bioinputs Law. What lessons can the world take from Brazil’s stakeholder engagement and regulatory process?

Quality is the cornerstone of success. Without quality bioinputs, farmers lose trust, and the entire field suffers. Science and regulation must work hand in hand, but each must respect its role. Scientists must determine which microorganisms are safe and effective. Stakeholders (industry, regulators, logistics experts) must design how products are transported, controlled and labeled. Problems arise when non-scientists attempt to decide what is scientifically safe. Microorganisms are not inherently harmless. Some strains promote plant growth but also carry pathogenic genes. Once introduced into soil, microorganisms persist—they cannot be displaced. That is why caution and science-based regulations are essential. Brazil’s soybean success was possible because we used only safe, well-characterized strains. That discipline must guide future efforts worldwide.

Q5: You are also participating in the Women in Agriculture Leaders Forum under the Global BioAg Alliance. From your perspective, how do you see the role of women evolving in agriculture and food security?

When I first chose agronomy, it was to contribute to food production. Over time, the focus shifted to nutritional security—the greater challenge today—where women play a decisive role. Across the world, women save seeds, prepare food, cultivate vegetables, feed families, educate children, and preserve and pass on traditions of nutrition and care. From the household to the classroom, from the farm to scientific research, women are central to food and nutritional security. Yet too often, their role remains invisible. Recognition must extend beyond scientists to include women farmers, teachers and homemakers—leaders whose everyday work sustains families and communities.

Q6: Finally, what message would you like to share with young scientists and women leaders entering agriculture today?

Do everything with passion. Women still hear “no” more often than men. The path is harder, but persistence matters. Some are drawn to the lab because it feels less challenging than the world outside. Yet the true satisfaction lies in seeing science applied to society. Publishing is important, but so is a farmer benefiting from your work. The science of the future will be more “female” in character—not only in gender but in values. It will prioritize listening, collaboration, shared progress and collective achievement over solitary recognition. These qualities are essential to building a better humanity.