May 28, 2019BASF, Rothamsted challenge students to get creative on soil management
Rothamsted Research and BASF are working together in a long-term collaboration to shape modern sustainable agriculture. The goal is to jointly address current agricultural challenges by identifying areas of research and development where novel approaches to science can accelerate innovation. The first initiative, designed as a hands-on training program, is a Sustainability Challenge that enables early career scientists to discuss their ideas on the future of farming in a corporate environment. In addition, BASF and Rothamsted are launching Ph.D. studentships focusing on soil management.
“We are encouraging the Rothamsted scientists to take a critical look at agricultural practices, address environmental, social and economic challenges through scientific research, and develop valuable practical skills for multidisciplinary projects,” said Julia Harnal, Head of Global Sustainability and Governmental Affairs at BASF’s Agricultural Solutions division. “This is how we will drive modern sustainable agriculture together.”
Sustainability challenge
The Sustainability Challenge is framed as a competition to develop skills in collaborative research projects. Teams of Rothamsted researchers from all over the world are challenged to develop proposals on topics such as the future of farming, sustainable agriculture or innovation to mitigate the effects of climate change. The program includes coaching from BASF experts and a leading Design Thinking agency on how to co-design collaborations with partners. The first challenge took place this year. After successfully pitching their concepts, the winning teams visited the headquarters of BASF’s Agricultural Solutions division in Limburgerhof, Germany, earlier this year, to exchange ideas on sustainable farming with industry experts.
“We are delighted to partner with BASF. No single organization can solve today’s agricultural challenges alone, so this is a great chance for our young researchers to learn what makes a collaboration project with industry successful,” said Professor Achim Dobermann, Director and Chief Executive of Rothamsted Research.
Ph.D. studentships on soil health
Healthy soil is essential for successful sustainable farming and plays a vital role in addressing climate change. To accelerate research in soil health, PhD scientists will work with experienced multidisciplinary teams from Rothamsted, BASF and universities to address critical scientific knowledge gaps in soil health.
Two Ph.D. positions in this co-hort have already been filled but one exciting opportunity is still available. If you are an early-career researcher interested in doing a Ph.D. on a cutting-edge topic in soil health, but want to have concrete impact with industry during your time with us, check out our advert: https://www.rothamsted.ac.uk/studentships/metabolic-constraints-arising-loss-organic-carbon-and-structure-soils-2
