Al Amin's HEED
Courtesy: Harper Adams University
Under the supervision of Professor Lowenberg-DeBoer, Mr. Al-Amin’s PhD research focuses on the “Economic Assessment of Autonomous Equipment for Field Crops”. His research hypothesises that autonomous machines are an economically feasible alternative to conventional machinery with human operators, that can enhance biodiversity and improve environmental sustainability.
Owing to population and economic growth, agricultural labour scarcity, technological advancement, increasing requirements of operational efficiency and productivity, and the environmental footprint of agriculture, agricultural automation and robotics have received substantial attention in the last two decades. However, the robotic systems for livestock and protected environment have developed more rapidly, whilst the development of autonomous machines for arable farming has primarily concentrated on establishing technical feasibility, and more specifically on the development of computer optimisation models and software tools for on-field operations.
Considering the complexity of crop field operations, it is important to focus on the overall systems analysis and understand the economics of autonomous machines, as economic implications would play a crucial role in attracting investment, guiding adoption decisions, and further understanding of environmental and social benefits. Noting these gaps, Mr. Al Amin’s research work focuses on the economics of autonomous machines.
Previously in Bangladesh, Mr. Al Amin was awarded the “University Prize” and “Prime Minister Gold Medal – 2014” for his excellent academic performance at Bachelor level.
Mr. Al Amin’s research interests encompass the economics of agricultural technology, especially precision agriculture focused on autonomous crop machines, climate change adaptation, environmental impact assessment, and ecosystem services conservation.