Dr. Allan Hruska

Biography

Allan Hruska is a lecturer with over thirty years of global experience in international development, including roles in leading, researching, teaching, and advising for universities, the United Nations, NGOs, civil society organizations, and funding agencies like USAID. Hruska has worked in eight countries, spearheading major programs such as being the founding Director of Global IDEAS at Michigan State University and Principal Technical Coordinator for the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization's Global Program on Fall Armyworm. He is committed to developing and implementing strategies to combat the invasive pest that threatens food security and livelihoods in Africa and Asia. Hruska has published over 40 peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, reviews, and technical guides, while securing $75 million in external funding. His passion lies in advancing evidence-based policies and practices to enhance the resilience, equity, and sustainability of food systems. He has taught at institutions such as Zamorano University in Honduras, Universidad Nacional Agraria in Nicaragua, North Carolina State University, and the University of Michigan while also working with NGOs and universities in the Global South to demonstrate effective techniques for smallholder maize farmers to manage fall armyworm, emphasizing simple and accessible soil control tactics.

Research Interests