He said the project could help chart the future of Australian agriculture and food security.
"We know drought can drastically reduce yield for our crops and this threatens food security across the globe," said Professor Pogson.
"I aim to produce higher yielding, more resilient wheat and rice, which together provide much of humanity's dietary energy and protein.
"These smart plants will be able to switch on a resilience that will help chart the future of Australian agriculture.
"Australia, indeed the world, faces an unprecedented set of challenges, many of which will impact food security. My proposal aims to contribute to providing some solutions. But given the scale and breadth of challenges facing our rural communities we need a nationwide, integrated, large scale mission to produce better crops and communities."
Acting ANU Vice-Chancellor Professor Mike Calford congratulated Professor Pogson on his success.
"ARC Laureates are extremely competitive and prestigious. They recognise Australian researchers at the pinnacle of their game as well as research of the highest quality and impact," he said.
"Their research makes a major difference to Australia and Australians every day.
"With these projects they will help drive deeper understanding and better outcomes for [] major challenges facing our nation and the world - crop resilience".
Story originally published by the ANU Newsroom. Image credit: Lannon Harley, ANU