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
26 March, 2023
Linker histone bridges gaps in plant immunity knowledge
Understanding the role of a key protein in plant immunity could inform the development of crops that are resistant to multiple pathogens.
16 February, 2023
Pioneering Plant Projects Promise Regeneration
Research to underpin key government strategies for greening the desert, regenerating mangroves and meeting Saudi Arabia’s net zero targets by 2060.
09 February, 2023
Playing the right cards to answer questions on a hardy old grain
The drive to research tangible solutions to address climate change meant a leap from marine science to terrestrial agriculture for graduate student Clara Stanschewski, now studying quinoa.