Understanding climate drivers of crop production over the past 40 years in food insecure regions of Africa

For a large proportion of the African population, agriculture constitutes an important component of livelihoods. While there has been an increase in overall crop production in many parts of Africa, this is highly sensitive to climate fluctuations, thus making crop production systems vulnerable to future climatic changes. Prediction of the consequences of these changes will depend on the ability to understand past, current, and future climatic drivers of food production. These factors, as well as other emerging social and political factors, may have significant effects on future food availability in these regions. Moreover, in recent years, high climate variability in food insecure regions and its effect on the overall pattern of crop production needs detailed investigation and understanding. The key objectives of this research are to: (1) quantify the temporal and spatial dynamics of crop production over the last 40 years in food-insecure regions of sub-Saharan Africa; (2) understand the interrelationship between crop production, agricultural management and climatic variability and (3) predict the status of crop production under future climate change scenarios. The research will utilise advanced remote sensing and modelling techniques to understand historic variations in crop production and the effect of future climate change scenarios on crop yield and in turn, the food security of this region. The work will connect to ongoing projects on water and food security in sub-Saharan Africa that will provide opportunities for fieldwork, collaboration with African scientists, and engagement with stakeholders.

Candidates must have or expect to gain a first or strong upper second class degree, in an appropriate discipline, not necessarily Geography. Details on how to apply are available from Julie Drewitt, email [Email Address Removed]. Informal enquiries may be made to the project supervisors. For the latest information on postgraduate opportunities within Geography and Environment, please visit our website at http://www.southampton.ac.uk/geography/postgraduate/research_degrees/studentships.page?

The Research Group details can be found at: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/geography/research/groups.page