Bio-FAIRCH

Center for Biological and Food Innovations in AI and Robotics for Children’s Nutrition and Health (Bio-FAIRCH)

Welcome to the Center for Biological and Food Innovations in AI and Robotics for Children’s Nutrition and Health (Bio-FAIRCH)

At Bio-FAIRCH, we believe that every child deserves access to healthy, affordable, and culturally appropriate food. Powered by cutting-edge research, technology, and community engagement, our center pioneers innovations in food systems that support children’s growth, development, and long-term well-being. From AI-powered meal planning to robotics-enhanced farming and food preparation, we’re reshaping the future of nutrition and food equity—starting with kids.

Our Focus Areas

Bio-FAIRCH works across five core areas to ensure systemic, scalable, and impactful change:

1. Sustainable Agriculture
   We develop AI-powered predictive models to guide climate-resilient and regenerative farming practices. Our tools help farmers anticipate weather patterns, select optimal crops, and reduce resource use—ensuring local food systems are both productive and ecologically sound.
   
   
2. Neurodevelopmental Nutrition
   Using AI and behavioral science, we personalize nutrition recommendations that support children’s cognitive and physical development. Our work bridges dietary science and brain health to offer evidence-based solutions for early childhood development.
   
   
3. Child-Friendly Food Innovation
   We design appealing, nutritious meals tailored to children's preferences and cultural backgrounds. Robotic food preparation systems are being developed to automate consistent, healthy meal production—especially in schools, restaurants, and food-insecure households.
   
   
4. Global and Community Outreach
   We collaborate with farms, families, schools, food service providers, and global research partners to expand the reach of our innovations. From East Tampa to international urban farms, Bio-FAIRCH builds grassroots and global alliances to fight child malnutrition.
   
   
5. STEM Workforce Development
   We prepare the next generation of innovators through interdisciplinary education in AI, robotics, nutrition, agriculture, and health sciences. Our goal is to build a diverse, skilled workforce ready to lead in food system transformation.

Partnerships

We work hand-in-hand with local and national partners. Our partnerships bridge research with implementation—bringing science into the kitchens, cafeterias, and classrooms where it matters most.

Get Involved

Are you a farmer, food innovator, educator, policymaker, or student passionate about reshaping children’s nutrition and health?

• Join our Advisory Board
• Collaborate on research
• Volunteer or intern
• Pilot our technologies
• Sponsor our programs

Contact us at tingtingzhang@usf.edu to learn more or join our growing network of changemakers.