The International Plant Nutrition Council consists of scientists across the globe who have made special contributions to the field of plant nutrition. The Council seeks to advance science-based non-commercial research and education in plant nutrition in order to highlight the importance of this scientific field for crop production, food security, human health and sustainable environmental protection.

In honour of Professor Horst Marschner, who was a passionate supporter of students and young researchers, the IPNC established the Marschner Young Scientist Award for outstanding early-career researchers and PhD students with the potential to become future research leaders. The awardees get the chance to present their work orally at the meetings.