Bayer invites global researchers to submit novel crop protection compounds through new Testing4Ag program

On January 12, Bayer announced the launch of Testing4Ag, a new program which allows research scientists from around the world to submit novel chemistries to Bayer for testing in hopes of identifying potential new modes of action to control fungal diseases, insect pests, or weeds. Testing4Ag, a part of Bayer’s Open4Ag partnership development and innovation approach, seeks to develop the newest generation of crop protection products that safely and sustainably address the changing needs of producers.

“Bayer is the leader in agricultural R&D and we are committed to driving the future of agriculture by delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to the problems facing farmers both today and tomorrow,” said Bob Reiter, Head of Research and Development at Bayer’s Crop Science Division. “Testing4Ag will combine the transformative ideas of pioneering researchers with Bayer’s knowledge, experts, and resources without taking ownership of the intellectual property participants contribute.”

Testing4Ag is executed in partnership with Halo and will help scientists learn more about their own compounds through testing and transparent results. The submitted compounds will be assessed via state-of-the-art biological testing against a wide variety of plant pathogens, weed species, insect and nematode pests, and/or vectors. Test results will be shared back directly with participants who can freely use them in continued research. In further commitment to open innovation, researchers and their institutions will retain all rights to the potential intellectual property generated through the Testing4Ag program.

“Testing4Ag is an ambitious program because developing crop protection products that help farmers feed the world in the face of climate change, while further reducing the environmental impact of agriculture is an ambitious goal,” said Rachel Rama, Head of Small Molecules at Bayer’s Crop Science Division. “Individual researchers, universities, even small startups can help add to our understanding of solutions to the most important problems facing agriculture right now. We welcome them to participate in Testing4Ag.”

To learn more about Testing4Ag, or to submit material for consideration, please visit www.Testing4Ag.com. Submissions must be received by March 31, 2022 in order to be eligible for consideration.