Applications are now open for Syngenta Crop Challenge in Analytics 2020 ($8,500 Prize). The objective is to estimate the yield performance of the cross between inbred and tester combinations in a given holdout set. Specifically, we are asking for the mean yield performance of each inbred by tester combination in the holdout set.

Moreover, today, the agriculture industry works to maximize the amount of food we gain from crops by breeding plants with the strongest, highest-yielding genetics. Plant breeding is complex, and data analytics can help scientists at research and development organizations like Syngenta make advances in seed product development.

Further, Syngenta has proven that data-driven strategies can help our industry accelerate innovation and breed better seeds that require fewer resources and are adaptable to more diverse environments. Similarly, developing models that can predict the performance of potential corn products can help scientists more accurately select seeds that increase the productivity of the crops farmers plant – and will help address the growing global food demand.

Syngenta Crop Challenge in Analytics 2020 Prize

The winner of the final round of Syngenta Crop Challenge in Analytics 2020 are as follows:

• 1st prize worth of $5,000
• 2nd prize worth of $2,500
• 3rd prize worth of $1,000

Eligibility

• The competition is open to all participants 18 years of age or older, where allowable by law.
• However, except people or organizations who work under a major seed company or their affiliates.

Evaluation Criteria

• Accuracy of the predicted values in the test set based on root mean squared error
• Simplicity and intuitiveness of the solution
• The clarity in the explanation
• Similarly, the quality and clarity of the finalist’s presentation at the 2020 INFORMS Conference on Business Analytics and Operations Research

How to apply for Syngenta Crop Challenge in Analytics 2020?

In order to apply, applicants must apply online through the official website. However, remember that all the submissions must be in MS-Word or LaTeX format using the appropriate submission template. Also, you can download the submission template here (.zip).