At the Rosa Lab, we study the interconnections between agriculture, water, energy, and climate to develop science-based solutions for a more sustainable and resilient future. Agriculture is the most impactful human activity on Earth—it consumes over 90% of global freshwater, emits 12% of greenhouse gases, uses 5% of global energy, and occupies half of all habitable land. As global food demand is expected to rise by 50% by 2050, agriculture faces unprecedented challenges: it must increase productivity while reducing environmental harm and adapting to a changing climate.

We believe that transforming agriculture is central to solving many of the 21st century’s most pressing challenges—from climate change to food and water insecurity. Our research focuses on identifying innovative strategies and technologies that enable sustainable intensification, reduce emissions, and build resilience across agricultural systems.

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Our Research Areas

• Advancing Agricultural Water Management for Sustainable Water and Food Security
  We study how to optimize water use in agriculture to close yield gaps, reduce water scarcity, and promote long-term sustainability.

• Assessing Climate Impacts and Adaptation Strategies in Agriculture
  We quantify how climate change will affect agricultural productivity and identify strategies to adapt to shifting environmental conditions.

• Hydrological Modelling for Energy Technologies and Climate Solutions
  We use hydrological models to evaluate how emerging energy and climate mitigation technologies interact with water systems and the broader environment.

• Achieving Net-Zero Emissions in Agriculture
  We assess the trade-offs and opportunities of decarbonizing agricultural systems while ensuring food security and environmental protection.

• Producing Low-Carbon Ammonia Fertilizers for Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture
  We explore decentralized, low-emission ammonia production technologies that could revolutionize fertilizer access and reduce agriculture’s climate footprint.

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Our Vision

We aim to accelerate the transition toward sustainable, climate-resilient agriculture by generating actionable knowledge that informs policy, guides innovation, and supports farmers, communities, and ecosystems worldwide.