Dr. Jerry D. Glover joins IRRI as Chief of Staff, bringing over 25 years of leadership experience in agricultural sustainability, research strategy, and global development. He most recently served at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) as Deputy Director of the Center for Agriculture and Lead for Agricultural Research Strategy and Budget. There, he managed an annual portfolio of over $150 million, supporting more than 40 U.S. universities and numerous global partners, including CGIAR centers, national research organizations, and private sector collaborators.

An internationally recognized thought leader, Dr. Glover has led multi-disciplinary teams across agriculture policy, soil science, genetic innovations, market systems, and climate-smart agriculture. His leadership is rooted in purpose-driven accountability, inclusivity, and coalition-building, having worked across more than 20 countries partnering with organizations such as the World Bank, FAO, the African Union, and the Crop Trust.

Dr. Glover holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science from Washington State University. He is an elected Fellow of four leading scientific societies and a National Geographic Explorer known for making complex scientific ideas accessible to broad audiences.

As Chief of Staff, he will serve as a strategic advisor to the Director General, ensuring cohesive institutional operations and alignment of priorities across IRRI’s global network. Dr. Glover officially joins IRRI on August 25, 2025.