CENTER FOR DESERT AGRICULTURE
Research center at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
Dedicated to the study, engineering, and implementation of sustainable agriculture in extreme environments
The global population is projected to reach
10 billion by 2050
How do we ensure a secure, safe, nutritious, and sustainable food supply for future generations?
The Center for Desert Agriculture is committed to finding smart and efficient solutions to
produce high-value crops and staples
reduce reliance on water, fertilizer, and pesticides
reduce greenhouse gas emissions
increase plant growth potential on marginal lands
empower the next generation of Saudi Arabian
citizens to be global leaders in sustainable agriculture
Photo by Linda Polik.
RESEARCH THEME
Our primary research focus is on field-based cropping systems, with 4 collaborative projects covering important aspects of sustainable agroecosystem agriculture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
RESEARCH GROUPS
Our international team of scientists investigate a broad variety of biology topics within 10 specialized research laboratories.
CDA NEWS
08 January, 2024
From roots to shoots: decoding strigolactones in plant architecture and symbiosis
New insights into the activity of two members of a category of plant hormones called strigolactones have enhanced the fundamental understanding of the role of strigolactones and could also support making crop plants more resistant to parasitic plants.
19 March, 2024
Analytic tool reveals more cream of the crops
CDA researchers have developed a new computational tool designed to swiftly and efficiently expose genetic diversity within DNA databases of various plant species.
10 March, 2024
Cultivating Curiosity: Plant Science Family Night 2024
Hosted by the Center for Desert Agriculture and The KAUST School, the second edition of the Plant Science Family Night united families from across the KAUST community. This evening of discoveries showcased the power of hands-on learning, fostering connections, and inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders.