Prague, July 1, 2025 — In a significant development in the Czech scientific community, Bangladeshi-origin scientist Dr. Jiban Kumar has been officially appointed as the new Director of the National Centre for Agricultural and Food Research (CARC). The appointment was confirmed today by Czech Minister of Agriculture Marek Výborný (KDU-ČSL), who expressed high hopes for the institution’s future under Dr. Kumar’s leadership.
“I expect the National Centre, under the leadership of the new director, to strengthen its role as a key research institution in the field of agriculture and food sciences. I believe his experience, vision, and emphasis on innovation and international cooperation will contribute significantly to the advancement of Czech agricultural research,” said Minister Výborný.
Dr. Jiban Kumar is an internationally respected expert in plant virology and agricultural research. He holds an engineering degree in tropical and subtropical agriculture as well as a PhD in plant protection, both from the Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague. With over three decades of experience, Dr. Kumar has worked at the Czech Republic’s Crop Research Institute (VÚRV), France’s INRA-Bordeaux institute, and the Institute of Experimental Botany at the Czech Academy of Sciences. He also served as director of VÚRV from 2017 to 2020.
His academic and scientific accomplishments include over 100 published research papers, 14 certified methodologies, and numerous national and international awards. Dr. Kumar is actively involved in global scientific collaborations and holds memberships in several esteemed professional societies.
During the selection process, Dr. Kumar presented a forward-looking development strategy for CARC. His vision rests on five foundational pillars:
Sustainable management of natural resources
Innovation in agriculture and food production
Assurance of food quality and safety
Climate change adaptation
Promotion of the bioeconomy
He aims to transform CARC into a modern, interdisciplinary research hub with strong domestic and international standing. A key focus of his tenure will be the strategic consolidation of CARC following the recent integration of several research institutes, leveraging these synergies for greater impact.
The National Centre for Agricultural and Food Research (CARC) is a prominent public institution dedicated to research, development, and innovation across agriculture, food science, and environmental disciplines. It promotes practical application of scientific findings and supports education and professional development, while playing an active role in national and international projects related to sustainable agriculture and food security.
Dr. Jiban Kumar’s appointment is seen as a promising step for CARC and a proud moment for both the Czech and Bangladeshi scientific communities.
