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
24 May, 2023
Uncovering new mechanisms for wheat rust resistance
The latest research from Brande Wulff's and Simon Krattinger's groups highlights the emerging role of unusual kinase fusion proteins in wheat disease resistance.
22 May, 2023
Now is the time to deliver on salt-tolerant crops
KAUST researchers Vanessa Melino and Mark Tester believe that more effort is needed to bring salt-tolerant crops to the farmers who need them.
11 May, 2023
Using plants as factories for green drug production
Biopharming technique yields cost-effective and environmentally friendly antimicrobial peptides.