About

About iEAT

Institute of Emerging Agricultural Technology (iEAT) was established in November 2024. It is one of the subordinate research institutes of Shenzhen University o fAdvanced Technology(SUAT), with Professor Zhenbiao Yang serving as its founding director.Guided by SUAT's vision of excellencein integrating education, research and entrepreneurship (ERE), iEAT aims to become an internationally recognized platform where the training of innovative and talented young scientists is aligned with transformative research in plant biology,thedevelopment of disruptive agrobiotechnology, and technology transfer. The mission of iEAT is to advance knowledge and to develop technologies that will augment food security, promote sustainable agriculture, and create value-added agricultural systems. Research in iEAT will focus on protein-rich crops, functional plants, agricultural microorganisms, and photosynthetic chassis for the biosynthesis of high-value secondary metabolites and proteins by using an interdisciplinary approach integrating synthetic biology with precision multi-omicstechnologies, AI and engineering.

Major research areas include butarenot limited to:

Research and development of efficient chassis for biomanufacturing high-valued recombinant proteins and natural secondary metabolites

Development of novel protein and lipid sources from photosynthetic organisms

Research and development of functional plants (e.g., strawberries) and microalgae

Plant stress biology and biological improvement of saline soils

AI in agricultural research and practice

Basic biology of protein-rich crops and transformative breeding technology for the improvement of these crops

The Institute has established a high-level research team led by world-renowned scholars and national-level talents, and supported by outstanding young researchers. To date, the Institute hosts one Guangchuang Team, one foreign academician jointly appointed with the School of Synthetic Biology, four recipients of national high-level talent programs, three awardees of national young talent programs, and four reserve disciplinary leaders with exceptional professional expertise. For organizational support, four dedicated administrative staff provide comprehensive services covering personnel management, financial administration, research support, and technology transfer.

Institute Logo

Logo Explanation

The institute's logo is based on a DNA helix and a green leaf, and its overall shape resembles a kite. DNA, as the genetic code of life, is key to exploring the mysteries of life and biodiversity. The green leaf is a vital organ for plant photosynthesis and a fundamental element of agricultural production. The kite, in traditional Chinese culture, symbolizes soaring dreams, the pursuit of freedom, and lofty aspirations.

The color scheme of the institute's logo is dominated by green, purple, and blue. Green symbolizes agriculture, representing vitality, dynamism, and hope. Purple represents Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology, highlighting the university's profound heritage and unique charm. Blue represents future technology, which is the core driving force for agricultural development.

The official abbreviation of the institute is "iEAT". It reflects the initials of the institute's English name.The word "eat" is directly related to agriculture – one of the fundamental purposes of agriculture is to provide sufficient, safe, and healthy food for humanity.

iEAT VI