Technology continues to transform agriculture, as farmers and researchers look for new ways to protect crops, improve efficiency, and reduce losses. As a result, we are seeing the rise of sensors and other advanced technologies that can provide farmers with valuable information before problems become widespread. As one example, researchers at Virginia Tech are using sensors to help detect the early signs of Sclerotinia blight, a fungal disease that can severely damage peanut crops. In recent years, severe outbreaks have caused up to a 50% yield loss. By identifying changes in plants before the disease becomes more difficult to control, this technology could give farmers an important tool to protect their crops and make more informed decisions. Here is how this can help: Looking to the future, we are going to see technology play an even greater role in agriculture—and sensors, equipment, and systems will make these innovations possible. As agricultural technology continues to advance, we will certainly keep an eye on how sensors, data, and automation can help create a more efficient and resilient food…

As AI (artificial intelligence) continues to transform how communities manage critical infrastructure, universities are investing in research and innovation that can help public agencies make smarter, faster, and more cost-effective decisions about road maintenance. As one example, PaveX, a Purdue University-related startup founded by Purdue civil engineering researcher Mohammad Jahanshahi, recently received a $305,000 Phase I Small Business Innovation Research grant from the National Science Foundation to advance its AI-powered technology for automating road condition assessments. The technology is designed to help public works departments evaluate road conditions and plan repairs sooner and more efficiently. What makes this technology innovative is its use of advanced AI to streamline a traditionally time-consuming process. Instead of relying primarily on manual road inspections, PaveX’s technology can help agencies collect and analyze road condition data more efficiently, giving decision-makers better information about where repairs are needed and when they should be prioritized. Here is how this can help: Looking to the future, AI-driven infrastructure management has the potential to play an increasingly important role in maintaining the nation’s roads and other critical public assets. As communities face aging infrastructure and limited resources, technologies that provide faster, more accurate, and data-driven insights can help public agencies plan repairs strategically. PaveX’s NSF-supported work demonstrates how university research and entrepreneurship can translate emerging AI technologies into practical solutions for…