Kentucky State University has been present a $ 7,000,000 from the National Science Foundation ( NSF ) for the project title " Driving AgTech Research and Education in Kentucky ( DARE - KY ) through Inclusive connection Building , Impactful Research , and Workforce Development for Soilless Food Systems . "
This honour is limit to transform the landscape of farming technology and STEM education in Kentucky as well as instal a research incubator for the Commonwealth .
" What a expectant day it is for Kentucky and for Kentucky State University , " shared Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo , President of Kentucky State University . " We could not be more proud of the work fill in everyday here on campus and throughout the Commonwealth . NSF , along with our partners in this endeavor see our potential and the impact we will have for years to come . "
Project OverviewThe DARE - KY project , spearheaded by Kentucky State University ( KSU ) , aims to establish an innovative , fussy - sector research brooder dedicated to enhancing nutrient direction , food safety , and the sustainability of soilless agriculture scheme in Kentucky . Collaborating with Bluegrass Community and Technical College , University of Pikeville , Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation , and FoodChain Inc. , the undertaking will focalise on :
Nutrient retrieval from aquaculture systemsMicrobiota delineation of soilless systemsFood safety assessmentsEnvironmental impact and sustainability of soilless agriculture operations
The projection will utilize metatranscriptomic and proteomic approaches to research microorganism activeness in aquaponic systems , evaluate alimentary flow , and enhance system productivity and sustainability . It will also investigate food safety in soilless agribusiness , developing pathogen monitoring technology to control foodborne pathogens .
Broader ImpactsThe DARE - KY initiative seeks to significantly boost STEM education and workforce development , in particular for underrepresented students , through new program , enquiry integration into student scholarship , and apprenticeship programs . The project will also host annual public engagement events and an AgTech symposium , aiming to position Kentucky as a leader in soilless agriculture technology research .
NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan Remarks : " This investiture from NSF ’s tocopherol - RISE RII program powerfulness scientific progress through broad networks of researchers , asylum , and system that will importantly enhance STEM research capacity in our EPSCoR jurisdictions . We are investing in a future where EPSCoR legal power are even more militant in the scientific initiative , both nationally and internationally . "
Award DetailsTotal Award : $ 7,000,000Project Duration : August 1 , 2024 – July 31 , 2028"We’re thrilled to support our longtime married person KSU in incur this historic federal assignment , " said Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation President Terry Samuel . " Our Kentucky Science and Engineering Foundation team is ready to work with KSU and collaborator by leveraging our university , industry and workforce relationship to establish Kentucky as a hub for soilless agriculture technology . "
The mechanical press group discussion was attended by representatives from Senator McConnell ’s Office and Representative Comer ’s Office as well as over a dozen elect officials .
" I see this as the start of a lot more achievements to make out , " Dr. Thompson , President of the Kentucky Council of Postsecondary Education , share . " This is the kind of grant that give you the base to build on other possibilities and other outcomes … this press league is not a one off [ event ] . "
" Our coaction with Bluegrass Community Technical College , University of Pikeville , KSEC , FoodChain and industry leadership to develop a United States Department of State - wide research internet centered around soilless agriculture is to address climate alteration , soil quality , and accession to fresh food for thought . stay put tune up as this award is just the beginning , " Dr. Akakpo reason .
The DARE - KY Project represents a significant stair forward in KSU ’s attempt to lead in research and innovation while promoting sustainability and diversity in STEM fields . This grant will significantly enhance KSU ’s ability to lead to scientific progress and community development along with its partners .
For more information : https://www.kysu.edu/
