Ajit Srivastava

Ajit Srivastava is Professor and chairperson of Michigan State University's Department of Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering, jointly housed in the College of Agriculture & Natural Resources and College of Engineering. A registered professional engineer in Michigan, he serves on the Reappointment, Promotion and Tenure Committee with expertise in Machinery Systems Engineering for energy, food, and environmental sustainability.

His educational background includes:

• B.Sc. in Agricultural Engineering, U.P. Agricultural University, Pantnagar, India (1966)
• M.S. in Agricultural Engineering, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ (1969)
• Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio (1972)

Dr. Srivastava's research spans Agricultural Mechanization, Bioenergy Systems, Dimensional Analysis and Scale Modelling, and International Development. He pioneers sustainable agricultural solutions for developing regions, establishing joint educational programs with Zhejiang University and China Agricultural University while leading study abroad initiatives in Swedish bioenergy.

Recent publications (2022-2025) reveal sustained focus on sustainable intensification through electric tractor adoption in organic farming, Burkina Faso mulching studies, and African agricultural mechanization. These works consistently address context-specific challenges in food security, environmental stewardship, and smallholder livelihoods across global contexts.

His scientific recognition includes:

• Kishida International Award (2023) from the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers
• Distinguished Alumni Award from Ohio State University’s College of Engineering

Dr. Srivastava has mentored graduate students from 15+ countries and secured major grants including the 2026 Autonomous Electric Tractor project and Appropriate-Scale Mechanization Consortium (2015-2023). As Water Alliance affiliate and ASABE committee leader, he directs international collaborations through the Appropriate Scale Mechanization Consortium across Africa and Asia.