Integrating Smart Energy Management and Plant Science in Vertical Agriculture: A Demand Flexing Approach
Supervisors:
Dr Matt Jones, School of Molecular Biosciences, (University of Glasgow)
Prof Jethro Browell, School of Mathematics & Statistics (University of Glasgow)
Rob Hancock, Cell an Molecular Sciences, (The James Hutton Institute)
Summary:
This innovative PhD project explores the integration of demand flexing in vertical farming, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and crop quality in controlled environment agriculture. The research focuses on three main objectives: evaluating crop yield under price-optimized lighting regimes, analyzing plant physiological responses to flexible lighting conditions, and investigating how light spectra manipulation can enhance crop nutritional content.
The project offers comprehensive training in interdisciplinary skills spanning plant science and energy management. The student will gain expertise in vertical farming techniques, energy-efficient crop production, and the application of demand flexing in agricultural settings. The successful applicant will develop proficiency in assessing plant physiology, particularly photosynthetic and stomatal performance under various lighting conditions.
Key skills to be acquired include light manipulation techniques, crop quality assessment, and data modeling and analysis. The research will also provide insights into sustainability and renewable energy integration in farming.
This multifaceted training will equip the PhD candidate with a diverse skill set, preparing them for a career at the forefront of sustainable agriculture, energy-efficient food production, and the integration of farming with smart energy systems. The project's outcomes have the potential to significantly impact the efficiency and sustainability of vertical farming operations.