Lifetime in kernels cultivates national dividends from corn

Researcher hopes more youngsters will help ensure food security

When Cheng Xiangwen, an 85-year-old corn seed engineer and researcher at the Hebi Academy of Agricultural Sciences in Henan province, got the message that he'd won the honorary title of "the most beautiful scientific and technological worker in the country" last year, he was at work in an experimental field in Hainan province.

"I was excited for several days. I really appreciate the country's support for the seed industry. The honor is not mine, it belongs to everyone in the field," Cheng told the media.

He has been involved in research into high-yield corn for 57 years. "I will spare no effort in fulfilling my duties as a researcher. I'm dedicated to devoting my life to the country's corn seed engineering work," he said.