AAFCO to Host Grad Student Poster Presentation Contest at 2026 Annual Meeting

By Uloop Staff on April 10, 2026

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) will host its first-ever Graduate Student Poster Presentation Contest in conjunction with its 2026 Annual Meeting, taking place August 26-28 in San Diego, California, according to a recent press release. The session is designed to spotlight emerging research and support the next generation of leaders in animal food safety, nutrition, and regulation. The submission deadline is May 29, 2026.

Graduate students across the nation are invited to submit their original research abstracts, posters, or short essays for consideration. Eligible projects must focus on animal food, nutrition, or safety and provide actionable insights for regulatory authorities or the food industry. Each student is allowed to submit only one poster presentation. The entries will be reviewed by AAFCO members and Kansas State University Olathe faculty, who will evaluate them based on the research’s relevance, quality, and practical value for regulators and industry leaders.

“AAFCO is committed to strengthening the future of animal food safety by investing in the next generation of researchers and regulatory leaders,” said Austin Therrell, AAFCO’s Executive Director. “The addition of the poster presentation at the Annual Meeting creates a space for graduate students to share new perspectives on science-based solutions that can directly support regulators and the industry in protecting both animal and human health.”

The top 10 selected students will be invited to showcase their posters at the 2026 Annual Meeting, with complimentary registration and up to $1,000 in travel assistance. The top three winners will be awarded scholarship prizes, ranging from $500 to $1,000, and the opportunity to present their research live in a dedicated 30-minute session at the conference. Additional recognition will be featured on the AAFCO website and related communications. Details on the contest rules and guidelines can be found at aafco.org.