In an effort to meet the challenge of feeding a growing global population, Alltech and Kentucky State University (KSU) have formalized a joint research alliance to develop sustainable farming techniques and modern farming models.

These investments will help develop an active graduate student training program and undergraduate internship program in sustainable farming, as well as a merit-based program aimed at supporting future agricultural science development.

“This farming-focused alliance will position central Kentucky at the forefront of sustainable agriculture and aquaculture, arguably two of our world’s most significant challenges,” says the company’s chief scientific officer, Dr. Karl Dawson.

“The work being done on KSU’s campus will not only have global implications, but will contribute to the development of a knowledge-based economy and job creation locally. It will also demonstrate how we can use technology to support small farm agriculture in Kentucky.”

The Sustainable Farming Alliance will operate from the KSU campus and has been established for an initial period of three years, at which time extension may be considered. It will be managed by a committee of three company scientists and four KSU faculty members, and chaired by Dr. Teferi Tsegaye, dean of KSU’s College of Agriculture, Food Science and Sustainable Systems and associate vice president for land grant.

Projects and activities will be selected based on their scientific merit, socioeconomic value and the potential for commercialization of the results. Initial plans include the establishment of an annual conference to promote sustainable farming and agriculture.

The company has signed research alliances with more than a dozen universities and institutes around the world. It is expected that 18 research alliances will be finalized by the end of the year. PD

—From Alltech news release