Research Areas

Driving Innovation Across the CEA Value Chain

FIT4CEA develops and validates innovations across the full range of CEA sustainability dimensions: environmental, social, and economic.

AI & Autonomous Cultivation

Machine learning and computer vision for real-time crop monitoring, predictive analytics, and autonomous decision-making. Our AI systems process environmental plant data from thousands of sensors to optimise growth conditions dynamically.

Sensing & IoT

Connected sensor networks and robotic systems for precision planting, harvesting, and environmental control. FIT4CEA develops innovative robotics sensors with AI and Phenotyping methodologies.

Photonics & Lighting

Advanced LED spectral tuning and light recipes optimised for crop-specific growth, quality, and energy efficiency. Our photonics research explores the full spectrum of light-plant interactions in controlled environments.

Water & Nutrient Systems

Closed-loop hydroponic and aquaponic systems with real-time nutrient monitoring, reducing water use by up to 90% compared to open-field farming. We develop sustainable nutrient delivery and recycling technologies.

Renewable Energy Integration

Solar, geothermal, and waste-heat recovery systems integrated into CEA operations for fossil-free, carbon-neutral food production. We design energy systems that match the unique demand profiles of controlled environments.

Novel Crops & Nutrition

Investigating new food crops with enhanced nutritional profiles including micronutrients, proteins, and bioactive compounds. We explore microgreens, edible flowers, and specialty vegetables optimised for CEA production.

This project is funded by the European Union, under the grant no. 101287460.

Contact:
info@fit4cea.eu

Project Coordinator:
Professor Leo Marcelis
leo.marcelis@wur.nl

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