Graduate Students Advance Barley Research with New Scholarships

Five graduate students in Canada are set to enhance barley production through newly awarded scholarships aimed at advancing research in the industry. The scholarships, facilitated by the Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission (SaskBarley) in partnership with Labatt Breweries of Canada, will support initiatives focusing on barley production, sustainability, and innovation in end-use applications.

The SaskBarley Scholarship Program receives funding from barley producer checkoff dollars and industry partnerships. It specifically supports students enrolled at Canadian universities whose research aligns with the needs of barley producers and end-users. The program is designed to recognize outstanding MSc and PhD candidates whose work promises to deliver practical value for barley producers and strengthen Canada’s barley value chain.

Cody Glenn, Chair of SaskBarley, emphasized the importance of investing in new researchers. He stated, “Investing in new researchers is investing in the future of barley farming.” Glenn highlighted that the students are addressing real-world challenges faced by producers and the broader value chain, ensuring that barley remains a competitive and profitable crop for farmers in Saskatchewan.

In 2025, scholarships were awarded at various levels, including PhD and MSc, with additional support provided by Labatt to expand research opportunities. The recipients of the SaskBarley Graduate Scholarships will contribute to critical areas of research such as livestock feed utilization, nitrogen management, precision agriculture, and the environmental sustainability of malting barley production.

Jeff Ryan, Vice President of Legal and Corporate Affairs at Labatt, praised the scholarship recipients, noting the integral role of Canadian barley in the company’s beer production. “Labatt applauds the recipients of this scholarship, whose future work will be instrumental in advancing our commitment to quality and innovation,” he said.

The research topics being pursued through the 2025 scholarships reflect a commitment to addressing the evolving needs of the barley industry, from farm to feedlot, malt house, and brewery. By focusing on these areas, the scholarship program not only supports academic achievement but also fosters innovation that can significantly impact the future of barley farming in Canada.