Welcome to CAFÉ
The Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment (CAFÉ) is UC Riverside’s hub for research, innovation, education, and outreach, advancing agricultural sustainability in arid and semi-arid regions, such as Southern California. In response to the mounting challenges of climate change, resource scarcity, and food insecurity, CAFÉ focuses on developing science-based knowledge and technologies to support a hunger-free XXI century. CAFÉ brings together expertise in precision and digital agriculture, agronomic practices, and environmental sustainability to help build profitable, resilient, and equitable agricultural systems.
Core Focus Areas
Transdisciplinary Research
Supporting and funding convergent basic and applied research that advances environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially just agricultural systems.
Selected Ongoing Activities:
Workforce Preparation and Curriculum Development
Expanding UCR’s educational offerings in Agricultural Sciences, Precision Agriculture, and Food Systems, to prepare the next generation of scientists and professionals.
Selected Ongoing Activities:
Stakeholder Engagement
Partnering with UC Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) and other institutions to extend research impact through outreach and collaboration with farmers, industry, and communities.
Message from the Director
Welcome to the Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment (CAFÉ) at UC Riverside.
Southern California faces urgent challenges related to resource scarcity, environmental degradation, climate change, and the need to feed a growing population. At CAFÉ, we believe that agricultural systems must grow not only to meet rising demand, but also to preserve and improve the health of our environment, support farmers and communities, and ensure broad access to high-quality food. With a strong foundation in precision and digital agriculture, agronomic science, and systems-based thinking, CAFÉ is the house for interdisciplinary collaborations between faculty, students, and partners to develop innovative, science-driven solutions. Our focus is especially relevant to arid and semi-arid regions like Southern California, where the stakes for sustainable agriculture are high.
Do you want to help us work towards a more resilient, productive, and just agri-food future? Please reach out and engage with CAFÉ!
Elia Scudiero
Director of CAFÉ: The Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment
and Associate Professor of Precision Agriculture and Associate Agronomist
Our Vision
Our mission is to lead transdisciplinary research and engagement efforts that sustain agricultural productivity and food security while improving environmental and human health.
CAFÉ aims to be a catalyst for shaping real-world solutions at the intersection of agriculture, food, and the environment, transforming research into impact for people of Southern California and beyond.