The Syngenta AI Challange competition has been launched to find solutions to world hunger by developing a model that can be used to analyze large amounts of seed data, leading to improvements in production without sacrificing resources. The project is sponsored by Syngenta and the AI for Good Foundation, who are now accepting submissions for the chance to win $7,500.

“This new competition will give entrants the chance to use their talents to take on the extraordinary complexity of seed genetic data,” said Joseph Byrum, Ph.D., MBA, PMP and senior R&D strategic marketing executive with Syngenta. “In the face of a rising global population, we need to grow plants that can adapt and thrive in changing conditions – especially as vital resources like water and land are finite. The Syngenta AI Challenge is about creating models that can help solve this puzzle and ensure world food security.”

Entrants will be provided datasets that include seed genetic information as well as soil, weather and climate data. Entries will be evaluated based on the rigor and validity of the process used to determine which variety or varieties are selected for planting and should include a documented methodology. The winner will receive $7,500; the runner-up, $5,000; and the third-place entry, $2,500. Entries must be submitted by June 1, 2017, and finalists will be announced July 14, 2017. Contestants must be 18 years or older to participate.

Competition information sessions schedule is as follows

· Federal University of São Carlos: February 3

· University of São Paulo: February 3

· University of Chicago: First week of February

· Jožef Stefan Institute: February 10

· New York University: Second week of February

· Carnegie Mellon University: February 13

Visit ideaconnection.com/Syngenta-AI-Challenge/  for entry rules and information.