The University of Guelph is set to receive over $7 million in new funding from the Government of Ontario for more than 40 agri-food research projects. These initiatives include developing a robot to harvest tomatoes, creating microplastic-free green composites, and utilizing responsible artificial intelligence. This funding will bolster U of G research that provides solutions for Ontario’s farmers, agribusinesses, and rural communities.
Through the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance, a partnership between the province, the University of Guelph, and Agricultural Research and Innovation Ontario (ARIO), 44 research projects will receive support. These projects aim to drive economic development, protect animal health and welfare, and support sustainable, homegrown food.
“The University of Guelph brings unparalleled expertise to deliver solutions for Ontario’s agri-food sector,” said Dr. Rene Van Acker, vice-president of research and innovation at U of G. “With this investment, we will continue to train the next generation of agri-food leaders while supporting a safe and healthy food supply for Ontarians.”
Highlighted projects include:
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Developing a harvesting robot for tomato greenhouses, and automation and autonomy for growing strawberries in greenhouses – Dr. Medhat Moussa, School of Engineering
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Enabling responsible AI-driven agri-food innovation in Ontario – Dr. Ataharul Chowdhury, School of Environmental Design and Rural Development
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Creating microplastic-free green composites as alternatives to single-use plastics – Dr. Amar Mohanty, Department of Plant Agriculture
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Dietary supplementation to improve growth and genetics of rainbow trout – Dr. David Huyben, Department of Animal Biosciences
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Producing low-cost bio-graphene from agricultural residues for electric batteries – Dr. Manjusri Misra, School of Engineering
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Progressing towards dairy calves resilient to heat stress – Dr. Trevor DeVries, Department of Animal Biosciences
Read the full news release on the U of G News site: From Single-Use Plastic Alternatives to Responsible Farm AI, Ontario Invests $ 7M in U of G Research.