Research topic: |
The seed-ball technology - a transdisciplinary approach to its development and implementation into Sahelian pearl millet production systems |
Main discipline and other relevant disciplines: |
Soil chemistry, plant nutrition, socio-economics |
Target region or country (if applicable): |
West Africa (Senegal, Niger) |
Topic description: |
The Sahel is one of the most challenging regions with regard to water availability and its efficient use for agricultural production. High soil temperature, water stress and nutrient deficiency (mainly P) result in low crop productivity, rural food insecurity and conflicts with respect to water issues. Where rain-fed agriculture is the only option, the development and transfer of a novel seed pelleting technique could significantly enhance early plant establishment of local cereal crops and reduce water and nutrient-related cropping risks. The seed ball technology as integrative solution targets these risks by acting as a water and nutrient storage unit in soils with low water holding capacity and inherent low fertility (Arenosols). The technology is mainly based on locally available materials (loam, wood ash, charcoal, mineral fertilizer) that provide essential nutrients during the critical stage of plant establishment and thus enhances water use efficiency. Further, seed balls have the potential to act as micro water storage units, thus reducing the risk of crop failures under erratic precipitation scenarios. The development and implementation of this technology into Sahelian farming systems will integrate aspects of soil science, plant nutrition, socio-economics and agricultural engineering. Key characteristic of the project will be the direct involvement of Sahelian farmers during development and implementation, supporting farmer-driven innovation and strengthening the role of women in agriculture. |
Research objectives: |
The principal objective is to develop the seed ball technology for pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) under Sahelian conditions to provide better plant establishment in the early growing season. Partial objectives are: (i) to optimize the composition of seed balls based on local materials on-farm in Senegal and Niger, (ii) to understand the interaction of seed balls with the soil matrix with respect to water and nutrient flow in soil column experiments, (iii) to develop a simple mechanization scheme for seed ball production, and (iv) to proof the on-farm yield effect and economic cost-effectiveness of the seed ball technology. |
Required skills and qualifications of the applicant: |
- graduation (M.Sc.) in the field of agricultural sciences with pronounced knowledge in soil science, tropical plant production - profound communicative and social skills that allows close collaboration with NARS scientists and Sahelian farmers of different ethnicity. Advanced English skills are obligatory. Basic German and French skills are adjuvant - ability to work in an interdisciplinary context |
