May 14, 2024
Research showcase highlights progress of Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics
The Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics, or ID3A, hosted an engaging research showcase on May 7. The event served as a dynamic convergence of Kansas State University administration, dedicated researchers and valuable industry partners to highlight the important work the institute has been doing since its inception in September 2023.
As the first interdisciplinary institute launched under the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan, ID3A is a people-centered interdisciplinary collective seeking to transform how we approach teaching, research and engagement. Using robotics, machine learning, artificial intelligence and advanced analytics to solve complex problems will help advance agriculture in Kansas and beyond.
"Our ability to use powerful, targeted analytics paired with in-field technologies creates incredible opportunities for more efficient agricultural production systems," said Jane Schuh, associate dean for research and graduate programs in the College of Agriculture and director of research for K-State Research and Extension. "The interdisciplinary work that ID3A is advancing creates the integrated solutions that move agriculture forward."
The showcase included five interactive stations that were led by the co-directors of the institute, a postdoctoral fellow and graduate students from multiple departments. The station topics were:
- Learning to Transform Data into Decisions.
- Computer Vision and Pest Detection.
- Ag Automation and Robotics.
- Digital Solutions for Crop Management.
- Vision and Expectations of Institute.
"It is very exciting to see the integration of six areas of expertise from three colleges into an institute focused on digital agriculture and advanced analytics," added Stacy Hutchinson, associate dean of research for the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering. "The fusion of this knowledge will create solutions for some of our most pressing agricultural challenges."
ID3A is led by an interdisciplinary team of faculty who each bring different expertise to the equation. The research showcase further highlighted the expanding set of possible partnerships across the university and industry.
"It was great to see colleagues and collaborators from industry, Kansas Department of Agriculture and units across campus — including English and art — as we work to create a truly interdisciplinary institute that works to engage the entire digital community," said Brian McCornack, ID3A co-director and head of the entomology department. "The institute welcomes and encourages collaboration with faculty and students who bring additional perspectives and expertise."
Interested in learning more or getting involved in this important and innovative work? Visit www.ksu.edu/id3a or contact the team at id3a@k-state.edu.