Joe Mari Maja

Dr. Joe Mari Maja is a Senior Researcher and Director of the Center of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Agriculture at SC State 1890 Research & Extension. Previously, he served as a Research Scientist and Assistant Professor at Clemson University's Department of Agricultural Science. He holds a Ph.D. in Information Science (Tohoku University, Japan) and an M.B.A. in Entrepreneurship & Innovation (Clemson University). His research focuses on spectral analysis, small-unmanned aerial systems (sUAS), water stress monitoring, environmental automation, and RFID inventory management.

Key research interests include drone-based crop monitoring, robotic harvesting systems, and AI-driven agricultural solutions. He has pioneered studies on UAV applications in precision agriculture, including plant inventory management and spectral-based nutrient detection. His work integrates robotics, remote sensing, and IoT to address challenges in cotton production, citrus pest control, and sustainable farming practices.

Dr. Maja's recent publications emphasize automation, such as the CHAP (Cotton-Harvesting Autonomous Platform) and robotic weeder prototypes. He was inducted into Sigma Xi in 2023, recognizing his contributions to agricultural innovation. His projects often involve partnerships with industry to translate research into practical tools for farmers.

His portfolio includes over 50 peer-reviewed articles spanning UAV technology, spectral data analysis, and robotic systems. Current initiatives focus on optimizing drone-RFID integration and precision nutrient application in cotton fields.