USDA scientist Ronald Fayer has been named to the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Science Hall of Fame for his discovery that characterized key parasites infecting the water and food supply.
Fayer works in the ARS Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory in Beltsville, Md., and is being recognized for scientific research leadership on parasites that infect animals and humans, particularly pathogens affecting food animals and food safety. He has led a range of work on parasite identification and host-parasite relationships and his work has resulted in significant innovations on parasite controls that have helped secure food safety and food supplies around the world. Results from his findings have been widely adopted by pharmaceutical researchers, epidemiologists, veterinarians and other health professionals who track and control parasite infestations and foodborne illness.
Also named to the Hall of Fame were Ronald F Follet, recognized for outstanding research contributions in the enhancement of soil, water and air quality, and Allen R Dedrick, who died in 2009, recognized for national and international impact and leadership in the development and application of technology for efficient use of scarce water resources worldwide.
ARS established its Science Hall of Fame in 1986 to recognize agency researchers for lifelong achievements in agricultural sciences and technology. Recipients must be retired or eligible to retire to receive the award. "The breadth and complexity of work conducted by this year's Hall of Fame honorees demonstrates once again that ARS scientists are global leaders in agricultural research and innovation," said ARS Administrator Edward B. Knipling. "Their efforts and results exemplify the skill, knowledge, persistence and insight we depend on to improve our daily lives."
Read more on the Hall of Fame at USDA/ARS.