The research will be underpinned by AI and robotics that will develop new ideas, technologies, and strategies to predict how agriculture and the natural world are changing.
With the human population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, a step-change in agricultural productivity, sustainability and resilience is needed to keep up with food demand.
'Secure everyone's future'
World-leading biologist Professor Tracy Lawson is spearheading the project, which builds on her decades of pioneering work into plant productivity, improving photosynthetic process and boosting crop water use.
Professor Lawson said: “This amazing facility places plant research at Essex in a unique position to be able to grow and select plants for tomorrow’s atmosphere today.
“This cutting-edge lab will put us at the forefront of research into how we can help plants change and adapt to climate change – helping secure everyone’s future.
“This state-of-the-art facility will help the world cope with a growing population by ensuring future food security by developing climate resilient plants.”
The University will be the first in the UK to have a commercial standard vertical farm and is the only lab in the nation to combine all the facilities.
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