Crop Growth and Yield Modeling Under Rainfed Soybean Cultivation at International Fertilizer Development (IFDC)

Methodology

• This student will assess the influence of climate on maize using the Light Interception and Utilization (LINTUL) crop model to estimate crop growth, potential (LINTUL-1) and water-limited (LINTUL-2) yields. The study area would be FERARI field trial locations for maize, and the student shall be required to produce a clear methodology for achieving the objectives. The student would receive assistance and supervision from the FERARI team.

Output

• At the end of the research, the student shall produce a report to FERARI on this research and extract the most important findings in a policy brief. The student would also be assisted to produce a research article that can be published in a scientific journal for our wider international audience.

Qualification

• An MPhil/MSc student in agronomy, plant physiology or related studies. Applicant must have completed his/her course work and ready to start the research component. The applicant must demonstrate high analytical capabilities, be creative, pragmatic and flexible in finding solutions to problem. Preferably, applicant should be knowledgeable in software packages such as (R, STATA and Microsoft Excel) and preferably have command over crop models.