University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences: A Comprehensive Overview

The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) stands as a pivotal organization dedicated to advancing knowledge and practices in agriculture, human and natural resources. Functioning as a federal-state-county partnership, UF/IFAS plays a crucial role in research, education, and extension services, contributing significantly to the sustainability and enhancement of human life quality.

Establishment and Mission

Established in 1964, UF/IFAS embodies the land-grant mission by providing access to education through teaching, research, and community outreach. Its core mission revolves around developing knowledge in agricultural, human, and natural resources, and ensuring that this knowledge is accessible to the public. This mission is pursued through fundamental and applied research conducted by faculty members, which furthers the understanding of natural and human systems. Research activities are supported by state and federally appropriated funds, as well as grants and contracts.

Impact and Reach

UF/IFAS has a substantial impact on Florida's natural resource industries, contributing an estimated $101 billion annually. The program holds the #1 national ranking in federally financed higher education R&D expenditures in agricultural sciences and natural resources conservation, as recognized by the National Science Foundation for FY 2019.

Given the diversity of Florida's climate and agricultural commodities, UF/IFAS maintains facilities throughout the state. These facilities support research, teaching, and extension activities tailored to the specific needs of different regions. UF/IFAS owns 1,299 buildings and has employees in 1,397 buildings. It has 4,055,402 sq ft (376,759.2 m2) gross, and 54,038 acres (21,868 ha) throughout the state.

Leadership

Dr. J. Scott Angle serves as the Vice President of UF/IFAS, providing leadership and strategic direction for the organization's diverse activities.

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Research and Education Centers

The Florida Agricultural Experiment Station administers and supports research programs within UF/IFAS, operating 12 Research and Education Centers across the state. These centers focus on addressing critical issues related to agriculture, natural resources, and related fields. One example is the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, which was established in 1925.

Extension Services

UF/IFAS Extension offers lifelong learning programs to Floridians, in collaboration with county governments, the United States Department of Agriculture, and Florida A&M University. These programs aim to disseminate research-based knowledge and best practices to communities throughout the state. Ask IFAS serves as the UF/IFAS Extension library of science-based publications, providing a valuable resource for individuals seeking information on various topics.

College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS)

The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) is the teaching arm of UF/IFAS. CALS offers more than 20 undergraduate majors. The college is an educational leader in the areas of food, agriculture, natural resources, and life sciences as they relate to human resources, the environment, and communities. CALS is committed to enhancing and sustaining the quality of human life. The college has more than 6,900 students (Fall 2021), including more than 2,400 graduate students. A majority are women, 26% are underrepresented minorities and 8% are international students.

In addition to the Gainesville campus programs, the college offers baccalaureate degrees online and at four UF/IFAS research and education centers. Recognizing the specialized needs of nontraditional students, CALS offers Bachelor of Science degree programs at Fort Lauderdale, Milton, Ft. Pierce, Apopka, and Plant City. Degree programs include agricultural education and communication, geomatics, natural resource conservation, and agribusiness management. Students must have an associate of arts degree to enter these statewide programs. CALS offers three Bachelor of Science degree programs in UF Online: entomology & nematology, environmental management in agriculture and natural resources, and microbiology and cell science. institutions to offer this major.

College of Veterinary Medicine

The College of Veterinary Medicine is jointly administered through the university's Health Science Center and IFAS. UF has Florida’s only College of Veterinary Medicine, teaching the veterinarians of the future and provide leading-edge care to animal patients from throughout the Southeast through the UF Veterinary Hospitals.

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Addressing Emerging Issues

UF/IFAS plays a critical role in addressing emerging issues related to food safety, invasive species, and pathogen control. Florida is the state most inundated with invasive plant and animal species. Nearly 85 percent of new plants entering the country travel through Miami. IFAS is part of the University of Florida's Emerging Pathogens Institute. UF/IFAS has been heavily involved in dealing with emerging food safety issues such the recent surge of E. coli outbreaks.

Core Values

UF/IFAS is guided by a set of core values that emphasize teamwork, respect, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. These values shape the organization's culture and guide its interactions with stakeholders.

We are One Team: UF/IFAS emphasizes the importance of teamwork and collaboration among faculty, staff, and students.
We develop people: The organization fosters personal development and professional growth in its team members and stakeholders.
We build relationships: UF/IFAS connects with stakeholders and each other to drive success.
We communicate honestly and respectfully: Open communication, addressing mistakes, and celebrating victories are valued.
We collaborate enthusiastically: UF/IFAS promotes active participation to solve problems and meet stakeholder needs.
We lead with integrity: High standards and integrity are expected from all members of the organization.
We achieve the extraordinary: UF/IFAS strives to make a real difference in the lives of those it serves, with lasting positive impacts.