Research Opportunity for Master’s Degree Students 2025: Socioeconomic Study on Acaricide Resistance in East Africa
Project Overview
Acaricide resistance in ticks poses a significant threat to livestock productivity and public health in East Africa, particularly in countries such as Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. This challenge is exacerbated by the effects of climate change. In response, this research project seeks to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to acaricide use, while also exploring the phenotypic and genomic aspects of acaricide resistance in tick populations.
The aim is to identify key drivers of resistance across different livestock systems and tick species in the region, which will provide the foundation for more effective, targeted interventions.
The outcomes of this study will contribute to standardized testing protocols, optimized acaricide usage, and alternative tick control methods. Furthermore, the research will support resistance management strategies that align with the goals of the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) and AUIBAR (African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources). It will also contribute to the development of National Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Action Plans, offering vital data to guide policy formulation. Additionally, the project will strengthen regional technical capacity through the training of MSc and PhD students, as well as in-service professionals, ensuring the availability of skilled individuals to address acaricide resistance and implement sustainable tick control methods in the future.
Research Project Call
This project is offering an exciting opportunity for three full-time, dedicated Master’s degree students—one from each of Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania. The research positions are available for 8 months, beginning in June 2025. Selected students will engage in developing their Master’s research proposals, data collection, analysis, and manuscript publication in peer-reviewed journals. Furthermore, they will contribute to the completion of a Master’s thesis.
Research Focus
The students will focus on the following research themes:
- Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP): Examining the current understanding, perceptions, and practices surrounding acaricide use and resistance in the selected countries.
- Drivers of Acaricide Use and Resistance: Investigating the underlying factors influencing the use of acaricides and the development of resistance in ticks across Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania.
- Economic Impact: Assessing the costs and losses resulting from acaricide resistance, particularly in relation to livestock productivity and public health.
- Policy and Regulation: Evaluating the policy landscape regarding acaricide use and resistance in the region, identifying gaps, and suggesting areas for improvement.
Key Student Responsibilities
The selected students will be expected to:
- Develop a comprehensive research proposal within the assigned research themes, aligned with the requirements of the university.
- Collaborate with the project research team in designing the research study and creating data collection tools.
- Conduct field research using both qualitative and quantitative methods.
- Curate and store data in a publicly accessible repository.
- Analyze and interpret research data.
- Prepare research findings for publication in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.
- Present research findings at scientific conferences and seminars.
- Submit a Master’s thesis to the respective university upon completion of the study.
Candidate Requirements
To apply for the research project, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Be a full-time Master’s degree student at a reputable university.
- Provide proof of university admission to a Master’s program in Agricultural Economics, Development Studies, Rural Sociology, or a related field.
- Demonstrate successful completion of coursework with strong academic performance.
- Possess a solid foundation in research, with a particular emphasis on econometrics.
- Have intermediate to advanced proficiency in statistical software (e.g., Stata, SPSS, Nvivo).
- Exhibit excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Show evidence of initiative, independence, and the ability to work autonomously.
- Be capable of working in a multidisciplinary team environment.
Location
The research will take place in one of the following countries: Kenya, Rwanda, or Tanzania.
Duration
The appointment is for 8 months, beginning in June 2025.
Terms of Appointment
This is a research opportunity, not a job position at the collaborating institutions. The successful candidates will be jointly supervised by the academic supervisor from their respective universities and the thematic area lead from the project. The selected students will receive a modest stipend for the 8-month duration, along with coverage of fieldwork and data collection expenses. Please note that tuition fees are not covered by the project.
Application Instructions
Interested candidates should submit the following documents:
- A motivation letter that includes research interests, academic background, career aspirations, and how the candidate will contribute to the project.
- A 2-page Curriculum Vitae (CV), highlighting academic qualifications and relevant professional experience.
- A concept note (maximum 2 pages) aligning with the project’s thematic research areas.
- Contact details (including phone numbers and email addresses) for at least three referees who are familiar with the candidate’s academic and professional qualifications.
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates.
Submission Details and Deadline
Applications should be submitted to the following email addresses:
The deadline for application submission is May 30, 2025.
Due to the anticipated volume of applications, only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Those selected for the next stage will be invited for an interview.
Call to Action
This research opportunity presents a unique chance for Master’s students to contribute to a critical issue impacting agriculture, public health, and policy in East Africa.
Successful candidates will gain hands-on experience in socio-economic research, develop valuable technical skills, and contribute to sustainable solutions for acaricide resistance management in the region.
