Dr. Prasanta Kalita

Dr. Prasanta K. Kalita is the director of the ADM Institute for the Prevention of Postharvest Loss and a professor in the Agricultural & Biological Engineering Department at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He also serves as the assistant dean of research in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) and is recognized as a Distinguished Teacher-Scholar. His extensive administrative experience includes overseeing a range of faculty and student research projects both nationally and internationally, collaborating with various institutions such as the Illinois Department of Transportation and the United States Agency for International Development.Dr. Kalita's research focuses on critical areas such as water management, environmental sustainability, and food security. He has published over 150 articles and has received numerous awards for his contributions to education and research. His course "Global Postharvest Loss Prevention: Fundamentals, Technologies, and Actors" on Coursera addresses essential aspects of postharvest loss, exploring technological and social dimensions that impact food security globally. Through his work, Dr. Kalita aims to enhance understanding and develop solutions to reduce postharvest losses, ultimately contributing to improved food availability and sustainability.