Closing date: 30 Sep 2024

The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) is offering one MSc research project working on ‘Soil enrichment potential of mealworm frass and spirulina effluents for crop production.

 Background

In the quest for sustainable agricultural solutions, the potential of organic byproducts such as insect (e.g., mealworm) residual streams known as frass and aquatic (e.g., spirulina) effluents has gained significant interest. These byproducts are natural derivatives of the cultivation of insects and spirulina and are rich in essential nutrients that could beneficially alter soil composition and health, as well as enhance plant growth, presenting a promising alternative to chemical fertilizers, which may be damaging to the environment. While mealworm frass and spirulina effluents are acknowledged for their nutrient-rich compositions, the comprehensive understanding of their impact on soil enrichment and crop productivity remains insufficient. Current research gaps include their effects on various soil types, interaction with native soil microbiota, and long-term benefits to crop yield and soil health. Addressing these gaps is critical for validating and optimizing their use as sustainable soil amendments in diverse agroecological zones. The study is designed to assess the potential of mealworm frass and spirulina effluents as soil amendments by analyzing their nutritional quality and other chemical profiles. It will then evaluate the impact of these organic amendments on soil fertility, focusing on soil chemical and biological properties. Finally, the research will conduct field trials to assess the growth, yield, and nutritional quality of commonly cultivated vegetable crops treated with mealworm frass and spirulina effluents against those grown in soil amended with conventional fertilizers, providing a detailed assessment of their effectiveness in enhancing agricultural productivity. This study is vital for advancing sustainable agriculture by assessing the potential of mealworm frass and spirulina effluents as eco-friendly soil enhancers. This research could support reducing chemical fertilizer use, promote organic waste recycling, and enhance food security by demonstrating their effectiveness in improving soil quality and increasing crop yields. The findings could provide actionable insights for farmers, encouraging adopting more sustainable farming practices in the refugee communities and beyond. A highly motivated candidate will be engaged to carry out this study in 12 months.

 The successful candidate is expected to undertake a comprehensive literature review and develop a concept/proposal for the study, conduct data curation and analysis, write a report, a thesis, and at least one manuscript, and communicate research findings to the project partners and other stakeholders.

Eligibility criteria

• Should be a national of an African country.
• Bachelor’s degree in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, Agriculture, Dry Land Agriculture or a related field.
• MUST already have registered in a university Pursuing MSc. in any of the programs above and completed and passed coursework before commencing the research study.
• The MSc student will be engaged for 12 months and will be supported with research funds (Note: The project does not provide funds for tuition fees).
• Prior experience in soil chemistry, sustainable agriculture, or related studies.
• Familiarity with experimental design and implementation in agricultural research.
• Proficiency in soil analysis techniques and understanding of nutrient dynamics.
• Experience conducting field trials and managing agricultural experiments
• Strong statistical analysis and data interpretation capabilities, with experience using agricultural research software such as SAS, STATA, or R
• Ability to identify, analyze, and address research gaps in soil amendment practices
• Capability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively in a team, contributing effectively to group objectives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for documenting research findings and presenting at conferences
• Candidates who are staff members of a public university, or considered for university teaching or research staff recruitment, are encouraged to apply.
• Qualified female candidates and candidates from less privileged regions or groups as well as candidates with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.

The MSc position is based in Kenya. 

How to apply

Applications will be accepted up to 30^th September 2024.

1. Fill in the application form.
2. A concise letter of motivation.
3. A detailed CV (name, contact details, age, and gender), the names of at least 3 relevant referees.
4. Copies of BSc and MSc diplomas and transcripts indicating all courses and obtained degrees.
5. Do not submit your application by email. Only applications and supporting documents submitted online will be accepted.
6. Applications submitted by email will be rejected.

Please note that: -

1.        Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

2.        Short-listed candidates are subject to an interview/written assessment.

 Timeline

Closing date for applications 30^th September 2024.

 Questions

If you have any questions regarding the Programme or your application to icipe, kindly contact Ms. Vivian Atieno, Capacity Building Officer, icipe. Email: vatieno@icipe.org