ABOUT CAFNR RESEARCH
CAFNR Research is the research arm of the College of Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources (CAFNR) at Prairie View A&M University. We are a proud 1890 Land-Grant institution committed to advancing agricultural discovery, training the next generation of scientists, and supporting resilient and thriving communities across Texas and beyond.
Our work spans six integrated research systems and five research centers, driving interdisciplinary solutions in agriculture, natural resources, food, nutrition, animal systems, and emerging technologies.
CAFNR Research is powered by competitive and capacity-funded programs, including the USDA-NIFA Evans-Allen Program, external federal grants, state initiatives, and collaborative partnerships ensuring that every project contributes to meaningful, measurable impact.
OUR MISSION
To advance innovative, science-based research that strengthens agriculture, food systems, natural resources, and community well-being. Through interdisciplinary discovery, student engagement, and partnership-driven approaches, CAFNR Research delivers solutions that support the land-grant mission of Prairie View A&M University and serve the needs of Texas.
OUR VISION
To be a nationally recognized leader in agricultural research. Cultivating excellence, expanding opportunity, and empowering faculty, students, and partners to develop transformative solutions for the agriculture, food, and natural resources sectors.
THE 3+1 MISSIONS SUPPORTING OUR VISION OF EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH
CAFNR Research is guided by a focused 3+1 mission framework, ensuring that our work remains relevant, competitive, and aligned with institutional priorities and funding-agency expectations.
- Pursuit of Innovative and Relevant Research
Advancing scientific discovery that meets the needs of agriculture, food systems, natural resources, and communities. - Attainment of External Grants for Impactful Research
Strengthening research capacity and competitiveness through external funding and strategic partnerships. - Publications and Presentations
Sharing scientific outcomes through peer-reviewed publications, professional conferences, and stakeholder engagement.
+1) Integrative Linkages for Broader Impact
Actively connecting research, student success, and extension outreach to support workforce development, community engagement, and the land-grant mission.
OUR HISTORY
CAFNR Research builds on a strong legacy rooted in PVAMU’s founding as an 1890 Land-Grant University. Through decades of agricultural innovation, community service, and student-focused discovery, the program has evolved into a modern, multidisciplinary research enterprise.
Key milestones include:
- Expanding research capacity through the Governor Bill & Vara Daniel Farm and Ranch
- Establishing signature research centers such as the International Goat Research Center and the Food Security Research Center
- Growth in competitive research funding, student research engagement, and collaborative partnerships
- Transition from the Cooperative Agricultural Research Center (CARC) to CAFNR Research, reflecting a renewed focus on excellence, visibility, and impact
Today, CAFNR Research leads forward with a strategic commitment to research that is relevant, rigorous, and responsive to the needs of Texas agriculture and global food systems.
OUR RESEARCH STRUCTURE
CAFNR Research operates through six systems, enabling collaborative research that aligns with university priorities, USDA-NIFA goals, and statewide needs:
- Animal Systems
- Plant Systems
- Food & Nutritional Sciences
- Natural Resources & Environmental Systems
- Social Systems & Allied Programs
- Artificial Intelligence & Technology Systems
Additionally, CAFNR Research supports five specialized centers, each contributing targeted expertise and high-impact outcomes. These efforts are strengthened by the Greenhouses that house world-class research on medicinal plants and sweet potatoes, Algae Biotechnology Center, Meat Science Center of Innovation, The International Goat Research Center, Poultry Center, and the Food Security Research Center, which have gained national recognition for innovation and global partnerships.
At the heart of this work is PVAMU’s 770-acre research farm, the Gov. Bill and Vara Daniel Farm and Ranch which is a living laboratory for experiential learning, applied research, extension, and industry collaboration. The farm connects students to real-world agricultural practices while generating solutions for Texas, the nation, and beyond.
WHY OUR WORK MATTERS
CAFNR Research enhances:
- Agricultural productivity and sustainability
- Student training, workforce development, and research competency
- Scientific innovation across Texas
- Economic and community resilience
- Evidence-based solutions for farmers, producers, and stakeholders
Every project, publication, student researcher, and partnership reflects our enduring commitment to the land-grant mission and PVAMU’s pursuit of excellence.
Research at a Glance
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