The Russian Timiryazev State Agrarian University (RSAU-MTAA), one of Russia’s oldest agricultural universities, is a hub of innovation in the agro-industrial complex, developing advanced technologies and training specialists to lead the future of agriculture. Founded in 1746, the academy focuses on areas ranging from plant breeding and animal husbandry to digital solutions and artificial intelligence.
The university is actively involved in developing a seed bank to ensure the country’s food security. This project, part of the national “Youth and Children” initiative, aims to create a “golden fund” of agricultural crops, including hybrids of vegetables and varieties of berries that are resistant to harsh weather conditions and diseases. By 2030, the university plans to produce up to 1,800 tons of seeds, meeting a significant portion of domestic demand.
RSAU-MTAA encompasses a vast area of 550 hectares, featuring academic buildings, dormitories, gyms, parks, forests, and experimental stations. The university provides hands-on training for students, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. This includes a fully operational field experimental station, greenhouse complex, dairy farm, zoo station, and poultry house.
The academy’s scientific endeavors extend to animal breeding, feed development, and biofertilizers. Researchers are also working on restoring native Russian breeds of cows and horses using molecular genetic technologies. Furthermore, the university is exploring digital solutions and AI platforms for farm and enterprise management, showcasing its commitment to integrating technology into agriculture.
Timiryazevka’s laboratories are pioneering innovative solutions for agriculture in extreme environments. One notable project involves developing city farms with closed modules and LED lighting for growing vegetables, herbs, and berries in permafrost and polar night conditions. These farms are designed for use in polar stations, worker settlements, and even submarines, providing a sustainable source of fresh produce in remote areas.
The university is also at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence into agriculture. Scientists are developing AI platforms for greenhouse vegetable growing, using neural networks to predict yields. Additionally, they are using microchips and AI to monitor the health of animals, such as rabbits, enabling early detection of health issues.