Prof. Sandro Carrara from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland, has underscored the critical role of innovative biosensor technologies in advancing precision agriculture and addressing global food security challenges. He emphasized the need for expanded research and the adoption of smarter, data-driven farming solutions to boost productivity, sustainability, and resilience in modern agriculture.
Prof. Carrara, based at the Bio/CMOS Interfaces Laboratory (BCI), delivered these remarks during a seminar titled “Application of Integrated Biosensors in Smart Agriculture,” held at JKUAT on Friday, November 28, 2025.
The joint seminar, organized by JKUAT and EPFL, aimed to deepen scientific dialogue, strengthen research collaboration, and explore innovative biosensor technologies to support the future of precision agriculture.
During the seminar, Prof. Carrara took participants through the key facets involved in developing effective biosensors, including specificity, sensitivity, and reliability, emphasizing how each element contributes to accurate, real-time agricultural monitoring.
“Biosensors have become an important tool in modern farming, enabling farmers to monitor soil health, detect plant stress, and optimize resource use with greater precision,” he noted.
His presentation highlighted a multidisciplinary approach to biosensor design, integrating biology, chemistry, electronics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to create systems capable of delivering accurate, real-time insights that support smarter and more sustainable agricultural practices.
Prof. Carrara further emphasized that the effectiveness of any sensor depends heavily on the quality of its core components, particularly those responsible for detecting biological or chemical elements. Precision at the component level, he noted, is essential for generating reliable data and ensuring overall system performance.
He also drew attention to sustainability concerns, noting that many sensor components, often made from plastics, contribute to electronic and plastic waste. He stressed the need for environmentally friendly materials and recycling strategies in sensor production.
“Ms. Maureen Andanje from JKUAT, one of the students I am co-supervising, is currently researching ways to reduce pollution through the reuse of Biosensor components, inks, and other materials. This work is critical in addressing environmental challenges in sensor technology,” said Prof. Carrara.
Principal, College of Engineering and Technology (COETEC), Prof. Hiram Ndiritu, highlighted the importance of such interdisciplinary research in advancing smart agriculture. He emphasized that innovations in biosensor technology are key to enhancing food security and sustainable farming practices.
“It is imperative that we expose our staff and students to cutting-edge technologies and global best practices, as this will equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation and tackle the complex challenges facing modern agriculture,” Prof. Hiram noted.
The seminar also highlighted various opportunities available in Switzerland for faculty and students, including research grants and exchange programs such as the Excellence in Africa (EXAF) 100 PhD for Africa Scholarship Program, aimed at fostering advanced research and international collaboration.
