Scaling Up Sensor Technology for Smarter Agriculture and Environmental Monitoring

Advanced sensor technologies capable of capturing spatial and temporal variations in soil, water, and atmospheric processes could revolutionize sustainable agriculture and environmental management. In this talk, I’ll discuss the development of low-cost sensors for measuring key agricultural parameters such as nitrate concentration. I’ll also describe plans to develop sensors for detecting other chemical ions, methane, and nitrous oxide. These sensors can be used to further the understanding of greenhouse gas dynamics in both natural and managed ecosystems. The fabrication techniques I use—such as printing and solution processing—are cost-effective and compatible with various materials, including those that could be biodegradable. In some cases, more traditional microfabrication methods can be employed to create more stable sensors. Together, these technologies offer a promising path for enhancing both agricultural productivity and environmental monitoring

About the Speaker

Carol Baumbauer is an Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Boise State University. Her research blends electrical engineering, materials science, and environmental science to develop sensor systems for precision agriculture. She completed her PhD and postdoctoral research at UC Berkeley, where she created printed biodegradable sensors and led a team developing low-cost wireless sensors to reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.

About our Program

The ECE Seminar is designed to engage students in their discipline. Although many topics are specific to electrical and computer engineering, all campus community members are welcome to attend.

Refreshments are provided by the ECE Department. Join us at 10:30 AM every Wednesday to network and sign in. Out of respect for our speakers, please arrive on time.