To enhance and strengthen international cooperation between the Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences (PKU-IAAS) and global agricultural research institutions, a delegation led by Academician Xing Wang Deng, Director (and Member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences), along with Dr. Xingping Zhang, Deputy Director, and Dr. Yunbi Xu, Principal Scientist, conducted a comprehensive two-day visit to the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) from August 19th to 20th, 2024. Unlike the typical brief visits that last only half a day or a full day, this visit involved two full days of intensive activities, allowing for a thorough and in-depth engagement with CIMMYT. The itinerary was adjusted three times by CIMMYT to accommodate the delegation's specific requirements, ensuring a highly tailored and productive visit.

Figure 1 Academician Xing Wang Deng, Director, Dr. Xingping Zhang, Deputy Director, and Dr. Yunbi Xu, Principal Scientist, posing in front of the CIMMYT entrance during their visit to CIMMYT (left), and the CIMMYT administrative building adjacent to the standardized experimental field (right).

The full Spanish name for the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center is Centro Internacional de Mejoramiento de Maíz y Trigo (CIMMYT). The center is one of the 16 international agricultural research centers under the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) and operates as a non-profit international research and training institution (https://www.cimmyt.org/). It was established in 1966 and is headquartered in El Batán, Mexico. CIMMYT is dedicated to addressing future challenges and its mission is to establish strong partnerships through the application of agricultural science, particularly in the global South, to improve the quantity, quality, and reliability of staple and grain crop production systems (such as maize, wheat, sorghum, millet, chickpeas, and peanuts). This collaboration enhances the livelihoods and resilience of millions of impoverished farmers while striving for more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood systems.

As the main target crops of CIMMYT, maize and wheat provide food security for billions of people worldwide. These two major crops generate nearly 50 billion in trade annually, covering almost 400 million hectares of land, which is approximately one−fourth of the world′s arable land. CIMMYT has 1,185 staff members from 52 countries. It has collaborative projects in 88 countries and hundreds of partners. In 2022, CIMMYT′s research efforts resulted in the development of 65 maize and 62 wheat varieties. The estimated annual economic benefit is 3.5-4 billion for recent years.

Based on data from 2023, CIMMYT receives funding from 65 founders, including international organizations (such as the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the World Food Program, and the International Development Association), international foundations (such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation), governments of Norway, Switzerland, and other countries, as well as government agencies from various countries (including the United States Agency for International Development, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, and agricultural departments from the United States, Japan, China, India, and other countries). The total operating budget for 2023 was $137 million.

First Day of the Visit

Prior to the official visit, Ms. Isabel Vianey Peña Mendoza, Director of the Office of the CIMMYT Director-General, led the delegation to visit the CIMMYT Museum. Over the years, CIMMYT has been committed to nurturing agricultural research talents by conducting training courses, hosting visiting scholars, and engaging in collaborative graduate education, thus nurturing a considerable number of talents from developing countries, including more than 300 individuals from China.

The founder of CIMMYT is Norman Borlaug. In 1944, Borlaug joined the Mexican agricultural project supported by the Rockefeller Foundation, with the primary mission of increasing Mexico's wheat production for food self-sufficiency. By combining shuttle breeding with the development of dwarf varieties, Borlaug successfully bred high-yielding wheat varieties resistant to rust and lodging, which allowed Mexico to achieve food self-sufficiency for the first time in its history in 1956. In 1962, Borlaug attempted to introduce high-yielding wheat varieties in conflict-ridden India and Pakistan, but the local governments rejected the idea, fearing that it would replace their indigenous crops. It was not until 1965, when the war exacerbated the famine in the region, that the restrictions were lifted and the new wheat varieties could be promoted. Consequently, wheat production in the region grew at an annual rate of 70%, leading India to achieve food self-sufficiency in 1971 and quadrupling its grain production over the decades. Furthermore, Borlaug's wheat production technologies were gradually introduced to more developing countries, effectively addressing food security issues in various regions. In 1970, Borlaug became the sole recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in the field of agriculture to this day. It is estimated that Borlaug's agricultural innovations have saved at least one billion lives worldwide, making him the person who has saved the most lives in the world.

Figure 2 Delegation explores the CIMMYT Museum

 At the beginning of the visit, Dr. Kevin Pixley, the Director of the Global Wheat Program (GWP) at CIMMYT, provided an overview presentation on the collection, preservation, management, and distribution of wheat germplasm resources, as well as quality improvement, disease resistance breeding, and conservation farming. Accompanying the discussion and exchange was Dr. Carolina Saint Pierre, the Associate Director of the program. Following the fruitful discussion, Dr. Xing Wang Deng, the Director of the institute, presented a symbolic gift on behalf of the institute to CIMMYT. The gift was a crystal sphere engraved with the map of China and the words "Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences" in both Chinese and English, representing the partnership between the two institutions. Additionally, a "kite" emblem representing the unique characteristics of Weifang, where PKU-IAAS is located, was included. Alongside a tote bag imprinted with the institute's name, these items will be preserved as mementos in the CIMMYT Global Wheat Program office.

Figure 3 Delegation engages in discussion with Dr. Kevin Pixley, Director of the Global Wheat Program (left), and presents gifts to CIMMYT (right)

 As the first stop of the visit, the delegation explored the CIMMYT Wellhausen & Anderson Plant Genetic Resources Center. The curator of the maize germplasm repository, Dr. Alberto Chassaigne, and Dr. Carolina Sansaloni warmly welcomed the delegation. Dr. Sansaloni provided an overview of the collection, preservation, management, and distribution of CIMMYT's germplasm resources. CIMMYT has gathered and preserved a large number of maize and wheat germplasm resources from all around the world, including various wild and related species, as well as landraces, making it the most diverse repository globally. The delegation was deeply impressed by CIMMYT's commitment to serving the world and distributing resources freely worldwide.

Figure 4 Delegation visits the CIMMYT Germplasm Bank

 Moreover, in order to conduct trials and collaborative breeding programs worldwide, CIMMYT annually distributes hundreds of thousands bags of seeds through its international trial network. These seeds encompass breeding materials and varieties, playing a crucial role in local promotion and as breeding materials. The delegation was in awe of CIMMYT's large-scale global testing and charitable initiatives.

Figure 5 CIMMYT staff preparing wheat materials for distribution to testing sites worldwide 

Subsequently, Dr. Julio Huerta, a wheat breeder, introduced the concept of Biological Nitrification Inhibition (BNI) and its application in wheat. BNI refers to the natural compounds secreted by plants through their root systems that inhibit nitrification. The mechanism primarily involves the secretion of compounds from the plant roots, which can suppress nitrification in the soil, thereby slowing down nitrogen transformation and reducing nitrogen loss. This not only contributes to increased crop yields but also mitigates negative environmental impacts, such as reducing nitrate leaching and nitrous oxide emissions. The discovery and application of BNI present an effective means to enhance agricultural productivity, particularly in terms of improving nitrogen fertilizer utilization, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and protecting the environment, showcasing tremendous potential.

Figure 6 Introduction to the Biological Nitrification Inhibition (BNI) Project (on the left) and representative germplasm accessions of wheat genomes A, B, and D

Wheat rust has always been a significant disease affecting wheat production in Mexico and globally. Dr. Naeela Qureshi from the Wheat Rust Molecular Genetics and Pathology Project provided the visiting delegation with insights into the molecular genetics and breeding of wheat rust. This included detailed procedures for culturing, inoculating, and evaluating. Unlike the research on diseases such as Fusarium head blight and wheat blast, the Wheat Rust Team at CIMMYT is an integral part of the breeding program, fully integrated within the breeding team—an inheritance passed down from the legacy of Dr. Norman E. Borlaug.

Figure 7 Introduction to the Wheat Rust Project (displaying stripe, leaf and stem rusts) on the table

During the final session of the morning on the first day (August 19th), the delegation toured the CIMMYT Wheat Quality Laboratory, where they received a presentation from Dr. Itria Ibba, the laboratory head, on the enhancement of cereal crop production and nutrition to achieve healthy and balanced diets. CIMMYT is equipped with state-of-the-art and practical instruments and equipment for wheat quality testing, allowing for quality analysis of different types and products of wheat.

Figure 8 Wheat quality analysis at CIMMYT and various types and products of wheat classified based on quality

 

At noon, the delegation dined together with CIMMYT's Chinese visiting scholars and international students, accompanied by Dr. Xinyao He, a wheat pathologist from China. Prior to the lunch, members of the delegation posed for a group photo in front of the statue of Dr. Norman Borlaug, a Nobel laureate, and the Biotechnology Building, joined by some of the visiting scholars and international students.

Figure 9 Delegation photographs with CIMMYT's Chinese visiting scholars and international students

The inaugural session of the visiting and exchange activities on the afternoon of the first day (August 19th) was commenced by Dr. Susanne Dreisigacker, the head of the Wheat Molecular Breeding Laboratory. In a systematic manner, she elucidated how the laboratory utilizes modern molecular breeding tools and techniques to expedite the genetic improvement of wheat. Moreover, she specifically shared insights into the implementation of molecular marker-assisted selection and genome selection at various breeding stages within the laboratory.

Figure 10 The delegation visiting the Wheat Molecular Breeding Laboratory

Subsequently, Dr. Cesar Petroli, an expert in high-throughput genotyping, presented an overview of data-driven genetic diversity analysis and its associated detection equipment. He placed particular emphasis on the longstanding collaboration between CIMMYT and Diversity Arrays Technology (DArT), highlighting the genotyping services provided by DArT. Furthermore, he predicted that with advancements in sequencing technologies, the DArT genotyping technology would continue to evolve, constantly improving and enhancing itself to stay competitive in the field of genotyping. This, in turn, would enable the provision of efficient and cost-effective genotyping services to both internal and external clients.

Figure 11 Delegation receiving a presentation on high-throughput genotyping facilities

After visiting the Wheat Molecular Breeding Laboratory and its genotyping facilities, the delegation members engaged in discussions with CIMMYT wheat experts on utilizing molecular marker data in breeding. The focus was placed on molecular marker-assisted selection at different breeding stages, genotyping cost, molecular breeding efficiency, and integration with other breeding techniques to achieve annual genetic gains of more than 2% in wheat.

In the final session of the first day, the delegation had extensive and in-depth exchanges with Dr. Matthew Reynolds, Distinguished Scientist and the head of Wheat Physiology at CIMMYT, regarding the progress of wheat physiology research. Matthew systematically introduced wheat physiological breeding, particularly emphasizing stress tolerance breeding, including drought resistance. He delightedly shared his co-edited book, "Wheat Improvement: Food Security in a Changing Climate," with Dr. Hans-Joachim Braun, the former director of the Global Wheat Program (GWP), and signed a copy as a memento for Deputy Director Xingping Zhang (the book can be downloaded from the following link: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-030-90673-3). In the evening, Matthew invited the delegation to join him for dinner.

Figure 12 Dr. Matthew Reynolds presenting on wheat physiology breeding and presenting the book "Wheat Improvement" 

The second day of the visit

 

On the second day of the visit, which dawned bright and early (August 20th), an exciting addition was made to the itinerary by the office of the CIMMYT Director General. With the guidance of Dr. Noemi Valencia, the delegation embarked on a captivating tour of the Seed Health Laboratory. This esteemed facility is entrusted with the vital task of conducting disease and pest assessments in accordance with the specific requirements of nations seeking germplasm resources. Furthermore, the laboratory diligently delivers meticulously authenticated reports, sanctioned by the Mexican government, serving as invaluable phytosanitary certificates for seed exportation. Considering the diverse quarantine prerequisites set forth by different countries, the laboratory diligently performs myriad tests, ensuring that the seeds dispatched to various corners of the world fully comply with the stringent quarantine standards. The astute dedication displayed by the laboratory resonated deeply with the members of the delegation, who couldn't help but hold them in the utmost reverence.

Figure 13 Introduction to plant pathogen quarantine testing at the Seed Health Laboratory

In addition to the extensive exploration of research facilities and projects, CIMMYT also organized field visits for the delegation. The 70-hectare experimental site, located at the headquarters of CIMMYT, is dedicated to the research on major crops such as maize and wheat. The delegation began their tour at the wheat breeding demonstration plot.

Dr. Velu Govindan, a wheat breeder, provided an introduction to the wheat varieties showcased in the demonstration plot. These varieties have been developed by CIMMYT's Global Wheat Program over the years and have been widely promoted and adopted worldwide. Like a captivating movie, the members of the delegation witnessed the presentation of wheat varieties and their prominent parental lines, which have played significant roles in different countries and time periods.

Figure 14 Delegation visiting the wheat breeding demonstration plot in front of the CIMMYT Administrative Building

In the maize breeding demonstration plot, which predominantly focuses on highland tropical maize germplasm, the delegation members were treated to an entirely different experience. Led by Dr. Thanda Dhliwayo, a maize breeder from Zimbabwe, the delegation ventured deep into the towering maize fields, immersing themselves in the untamed characteristics of highland tropical maize. They not only witnessed the wild traits of this maize variety but also observed the profound love the Mexican people hold for high-quality heirloom varieties.

Through this immersive experience, the delegation gained an appreciation for the Global Maize Program of CIMMYT, which aims to develop specially adapted varieties to meet the diverse maize demands in different ecological regions and socio-cultural contexts. This includes fulfilling the requirements of countries in Latin America, such as Mexico, for various types of maize products.

Figure 15 Delegation visiting the highland tropical maize breeding demonstration plot

 

Subsequently, the delegation arrived at a special experimental area. Dr. Kai Sonder, head of the Geographic Information Systems Laboratory at CIMMYT, provided an analysis of the development, evaluation, demonstration, and promotion of the long-standing CIMMYT Sustainable Production Practices Project. This project encompasses maize, wheat, legumes, crop rotations, and crop diversification, focusing on technological innovations for sustainable, efficient, and resilient farming practices.

The delegation carefully observed a test plot where no-till wheat cultivation had been practiced continuously for over 20 years. It was evident that the soil conservation measures were exemplary, and the wheat exhibited vigorous growth, showcasing the success of the sustainable practices implemented.

Figure 16 Delegation visiting CIMMYT's Sustainable Production Practices Project and the No-Till Wheat Residue Experiment Plot

 

In an organized and uniform wheat experimental field, Dr. Xinyao He, a wheat pathologist at CIMMYT, provided an overview of the evaluation, identification, genetics, and improvement of wheat Fusarium head blight. As a significant disease affecting wheat production, wheat Fusarium head blight receives ongoing attention at CIMMYT. A dedicated research group has been established, and a comprehensive set of standardized procedures has been developed, encompassing pathogen culture, artificial inoculation, spray humidification, field identification, resistance selection, and breeding techniques.

Figure 17 Delegation visiting wheat pathogen experimental plot

 

In the office of the Wheat Pathogen Laboratory Head, Dr. Pawan Singh passionately discusses the research progress of CIMMYT in the field of wheat blast. Wheat blast is a fungal disease that emerged in South America in 1985 and has since become one of the major diseases in the region, causing yield losses of up to 100% in severely affected areas. The resources and genes for wheat resistance to wheat blast are limited, and the blast pathogen has developed strong resistance to fungicides belonging to the QoI (Quinone Outside Inhibitor) class. Two outbreaks of wheat blast in 2016 and 2018 resulted in its spread to Bangladesh in Asia and Zambia in Africa. Therefore, monitoring, slowing down, and suppressing its spread are of great significance for effectively controlling wheat blast

Figure 18 Dr. Pawan Singh, head of the Wheat Disease Laboratory, presenting the progress of CIMMYT's research on wheat blast

 

Following the field visit on the morning of August 20th, the delegation gathered for a delightful lunch in the company of CIMMYT scientists from its Global Wheat Program. Dr. Kevin Pixsley, the Director of the Global Wheat Program, Dr. Carolina Saint Pierre, the Associate Director of the Global Wheat Program, Dr. Susanne Dreisigacker, head of the Wheat Molecular Breeding Laboratory, and Ms. Isabel Vianey Peña Mendoza, head of the Office of the CIMMYT Director-General, joined the delegation. Amidst savoring the flavors of Mexican cuisine, the delegation engaged in lively discussions, sharing their observations and seeking expert advice on various technical and management issues.

Adhering to international regulations and emphasizing strict oversight to ensure biosafety, CIMMYT and other international agricultural research institutions have long upheld these vital principles in the field of biotechnology. In the afternoon of August 20th, the delegation had the opportunity to visit CIMMYT's facilities dedicated to genetic modification and gene editing. Dr. Anindya Bandyopadhyay, the Director of the Precision Genetics Laboratory and the Principal Scientist, presented his research team and elucidated how they utilize modern breeding techniques to enhance the production, nutrition, and health of important cereal crops. The focus of the discussion revolved around gene editing in breeding and its significance in international collaboration.

Figure 19 Delegation visiting and engaging in discussions at CIMMYT's Precision Genetics (Genome Editing) Laboratory.

CIMMYT has long been committed to the global distribution and sharing of germplasm resources, while continuously nurturing talent for developing countries through various initiatives, including graduate programs and visiting scholars. As CIMMYT doesn't have the authority to grant degrees, the education of its graduate students is achieved through collaborations with universities. Ms. Karina Frank, the Coordinator of Wheat Training at CIMMYT, provided the delegation with an overview of CIMMYT's capacity building and wheat training efforts, which lies in their alignment with the demands of wheat production, guided by project scientists in relevant fields.

Subsequently, Mr. Jean Flavien Le Besque, the Director of Human Resources at CIMMYT, shed light on the center's academic and capacity building endeavors, along with its global training initiatives. The emphasis was placed on how the center conducts training through the utilization and collaboration with international cooperative projects.

Figure 20 Capacity building and talent development at CIMMYT (Top: Wheat training; Bottom: CIMMYT's academic and capacity building, and global training)

A working session on potential areas of cooperation

At the concluding stage of the visit, a working session on potential areas of cooperation between CIMMYT and Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences was held in the Sasakawa Conference Room. Firstly, Dr. Xingping Zhang, the Deputy Director of the Institute, provided an overview on the establishment and development of the institute. This included key facilities and equipment, experimental stations, talented workforce, national key laboratory, international cooperation bases, science popularization and public services, as well as notable progress and achievements achieved since its establishment. Research Professor Yunbi Xu introduced the training programs and conferences organized by the institute, including the Molecular Breeding Academy (MBA) and the Xiashan Conference.

Subsequently, both parties engaged in discussions regarding potential collaboration in scientific research and international training. This encompassed a focus on key areas such as international collaboration in wheat genomics and molecular breeding, along with international training activities in molecular breeding. Dr. Kevin Pixley, Director of the Global Wheat Program at CIMMYT, Dr. Matthew Reynolds, Distinguished Scientist and Head of the Wheat Physiology, Dr. Carolina Saint Pierre, Associate Director of the Global Wheat Program at CIMMYT, Dr. Anindya Bandyopadhyay, head of the Precision Genetics Laboratory, Dr. Xinyao He, a wheat pathologist, as well as a number of Chinese students and visiting scholars, attended the discussion. The session involved fruitful deliberations, and a group photograph was taken as a commemoration of the event.

Figure 21 Working session on potential areas of cooperation between Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences and CIMMYT

 

In the final segment of the session, CIMMYT and PKU-IAAS engaged in discussions and exchanges regarding international cooperation, with both parties eagerly anticipating the signing of a cooperative agreement.

What we can learn from international agricultural research institutions?

After two days of intensive study tour and close interaction with CIMMYT staff and Chinese students and scholars, the delegation felt that CIMMYT, as a significant international agricultural research institution, has many aspects worthy of our learning. The key takeaways can be summarized as follows:

1. Service with global perspective

Upon entering the Reception Hall of CIMMYT, one's attention is immediately drawn to several large plastic cylindrical containers filled with corn and wheat grains. The varying heights of these containers reflect the production levels of global food crops at different periods and the projected future demand for food. These impressive structures not only provide a visual spectacle but also create a tangible sense of the pressure that exists in terms of global food security. CIMMYT, with its mission to address global food security, is dedicated to genetic improvement and productivity enhancement of maize and wheat.

Figure 22 Display of global food production and demand forecasts in CIMMYT Reception Hall

 

2. Stringent operating procedures with high standards

In its mission to serve the world, CIMMYT has established genetically modified and gene editing facilities that adhere to international standards. Strict adherence to relevant crop quarantine measures, as stipulated by international regulations, is followed in the exchange and distribution of germplasm resources. CIMMYT also implements standardized protocols in global variety trials and employs rigorous field trial designs and management to ensure environmental consistency. Maximum mechanization of field operations, including sowing and harvesting, is achieved. Furthermore, important operational procedures have been developed and shared, such as field inoculation and spray moisturizing for wheat Fusarium head blight, greenhouse cultivation and inoculation for wheat rust, and maize haploid induction and doubled haploid breeding. The immaculate laboratories, greenhouses, and field management practices of CIMMYT have left a lasting impression on the delegation.

 

3. Market-oriented and demand-driven research

Scientific research at CIMMYT follows a market-oriented approach. Collaborating with scientists from relevant countries, CIMMYT focuses on breeding programs tailored to diverse ecological regions, targeting specific disease resistance and stress tolerance in different areas. For instance, maize breeding can be divided into low-altitude tropical breeding, subtropical and mid-high altitude tropical breeding, and high-altitude tropical breeding. Many of their projects involve participation and sponsorship from industrial and social organizations.

 

4. Focusing on breeding systems in developing countries

CIMMYT is committed to addressing the needs of developing countries. A notable example is the achievement of the Nobel Peace Prize through the Green Revolution facilitated by shuttle breeding. For instance, to meet the requirements of different nations, CIMMYT has developed white-grain maize tailored for African and Latin American markets. Collaborative international programs addressing micronutrient deficiencies caused by the consumption of white-grain maize as a staple have been established to enhance nutrition through the cultivation of maize with high protein and vitamin contents.

 

5. Embracing environmental conservation, safety, and sustainable development

The principles of environmental conservation, safety, and sustainable development are deeply ingrained within the CIMMYT campus. The center upholds rigorous waste management and recycling systems, and strict smoking control measures are implemented within the campus. Strict crop rotation and fallow land management practices are observed at experimental sites. A notable example is the long-standing conservation zero-tillage and continuous cropping trials that have been in operation for over two decades.

Figure 23 CIMMYT's waste sorting system (Left) and controlled smoking area (Right)

 

6. Multidisciplinary integration and collaboration

With the support of international foundations such as the Rockefeller and Gates Foundations, as well as governments worldwide, CIMMYT seeks extensive collaborations on a global scale. Through initiatives such as the "Challenge Program," "Drought Tolerant Maize for Africa," "Biofortification" and "C4 Rice and Wheat" CIMMYT has established long-term partnerships with top international universities like Cornell University, multinational seed companies like BAYER, and international agricultural institutions like IRRI. These collaborations have enabled the sustained research and development of many international projects allowing them continue for up to 15-20 years. To encourage collaborative research, CIMMYT recognizes the contributions of all co-authors and affiliated institutions in performance evaluations and outcome assessments, giving almost equal credit to all collaborative papers. Furthermore, CIMMYT consistently prioritizes the inclusion of partners from developing countries.

7. Well-equipped research and living facilities

CIMMYT has established relatively comprehensive research facilities, including the necessary infrastructure for biotech breeding, gene editing, genetic modification, and molecular marker-assisted selection. It has established experimental stations in different ecological regions, as well as testing sites and breeding networks across developing countries. To address the various needs of its employees, CIMMYT has constructed sports fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, gyms, and swimming pools, all meeting international standards. In response to the educational needs of employees' children, CIMMYT has set up a kindergarten within the campus and partnered with international schools, providing a K-12 education pathway aligned with international standards. In terms of healthcare, CIMMYT offers medical insurance and coverage for employees' spouses and children. In terms of personal taxation, CIMMYT has negotiated an exemption from personal income tax in Mexico for international staff. To cater to the living arrangements of international employees, priority is given to job applications from their spouses.

Figure 24 CIMMYT's sports and fitness facilities (Top Left: swimming pool; Top Right: children's playground; Bottom Left: gymnasium; Bottom Right: tennis court)

 

8. Rich and diverse organizational cultures

Through long-term cultivation and improvement, CIMMYT has established rich and diverse organizational cultures. Various hats bearing the CIMMYT logo are readily provided to visitors in laboratories and fields as needed. Shirts, hats, and other items featuring the CIMMYT logo are available for purchase as souvenirs for visiting guests and tourists. At the annual summary conference, employees with five, ten, fifteen, twenty, and other years of service are recognized and presented with commemorative plaques, irrespective of their positions or roles, whether in security, cleaning, logistics, or as international or domestic staff. Birthday parties are held for each employee, and welcome events are organized for new employees, visiting scholars, and graduate students joining CIMMYT. Farewell gatherings are conducted for retirees, departing individuals, or those concluding their visiting appointments, accompanied by the presentation of certificates and commemorative gifts. Regarding employee welfare, considering the wage disparity between international and domestic staff, the same meals are offered to domestic employees at discounted prices.

Figure 25 A glimpse into CIMMYT's organizational culture

9. Complementary Advantages in Collaboration between PKU-IAAS and CIMMYT

Located in China's largest grain and vegetable production base, the Peking University Institute of Advanced Agriculture Sciences (PKU-IAAS) possesses internationally advanced agricultural and life science instrumentation and equipment, including cryo-electron microscopes, mass spectrometers, and proteomics platforms, along with a robust computational center and powerful data analysis capabilities. CIMMYT, on the other hand, boasts the world's richest collection of maize and wheat germplasm resources, as well as a global network of testing sites and trial locations spread across developing countries. The two parties can engage in extensive international cooperation in genomics, genetic improvement, and international training, among other areas. The visiting delegation from PKU-IAAS looks forward to collaborating with CIMMYT and other international agricultural research institutions to achieve complementary advantages and contribute jointly to addressing the challenges of climate change and global food security.

This article has been reviewed and revised by Dr. Xuecai Zhang, Senior Scientist at CIMMYT. Special thanks are extended to Dr. Shaoshuai Liu, a visiting scholar at CIMMYT, for providing some of the images.

(Peking University Institute of Advanced Agriculture Sciences CIMMYT Delegation)