Today, the agricultural industry faces serious challenges such as population growth, climate change, labor shortages, and the risk of pandemic diseases. The population is expected to reach 10 billion in 2050 and agricultural production will continue to increase; in addition, the average age of farmers is rising, resulting in an increased demand for new labor. The future concept of agriculture involves smarter, more efficient and more environmentally sustainable farms with sensors, machines, artificial intelligence tools and robots. Robotics can play an essential role in meeting agricultural production needs in the near future and could help increase operational safety, improve soil health and increase yields, as well as solve the labor problem.
The thesis will focus on researching the advancement of the state of the art in agricultural robots for horticultural crops, designing and studying new cultivation forms to facilitate fruit detection and thus better sensor vision. It will also research and experiment with algorithms that enable specific cameras to detect size, color, weight and position of targets.
THESIS DURATION: JUNE 2024 - DECEMBER 2024
CONTACT: Gaia Moretti (gaia.moretti6@unibo.it)
In recent years, low-THC Cannabis sativa has gained recognition for its therapeutic applications, demonstrating significant potential in treating various medical conditions and showing potential as a cash-crop. However, to maximize the yield and quality of cannabis crops, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the mechanisms that regulate its biological cycle, including the flower induction phase.
In this context, the proposed thesis aims to explore and optimize the greenhouse cultivation process of Cannabis sativa through the use of diverse light treatments. Specifically, during this experiment, the focus will be on the application of different LED light treatments with red, blue, and far-red wavelengths, with the main goal of investigating their effects on flower induction. Special emphasis will be placed on the potential reduction of the time required for the transition from the vegetative to the flowering phase.
The experiment will be conducted in a greenhouse using supplementary LED lighting, and light treatments will be applied starting from the day of the transition to a 12:12 light/dark photoperiod, monitoring the response of Cannabis sativa to each combination of wavelengths. Various metrics will be measured, including the flowering induction time, plant morphology, and other key parameters.
THESIS DURATION: November 2024 - January 2024
CONTACT: Fabio Perotti (fabio.perotti2@unibo.it)
Plants represent a valuable repository of phytochemical compounds, many of which exhibit bioactive properties utilized in diverse industries such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Given the considerable interest in exploiting these botanical resources for pharmaceutical and cosmetic purposes, there is a burgeoning research interest in optimizing their cultivation within controlled environments.
Indoor cultivation systems offer a controlled environment shielded from external meteorological fluctuations. Through precise environmental control, continuous monitoring, and microclimate regulation, these systems facilitate the attainment of higher and more consistent yields across seasons.
The thesis will focus on advancing the state of the art regarding innovative species that can be cultivated indoors, analyzing their various cultivation requirements as well as their potential applications and uses.
THESIS DURATION: To be arranged within a timeframe spanning from May to October
CONTACT: Teresa Piovano (teresa.piovano2@unibo.it)
The National University of Piura, Peru, offers research opportunities for students interested in sustainable and precision agriculture, with a focus on climate change adaptation in arid environments. The CECASP offers a unique environment for research and is equipped with experimental fields with drip irrigation, a hydroponic greenhouse with NFT panels for soiless production, greenhouses for seedling propagation and soil-based vegetable production. A new greenhouse for simplified hydroponic systems isunder construction.
The research topic will be agreed upon between the student and his/her academic advisors within the project, ensuring alignment with CECASP objectives and the student's interests.
THESIS DURATION: minimum 6 months, with flexibility depending on the research involved.
STARTING DATE: to be agreed upon, depending on the availability of the candidate and the needs of the project
SKILLS REQUIRED: Basic knowledge in agronomy, environmental science or related fields. Ability to work in a team and adapt to rural environments. Good communication skills, proactive mindset and problem solving skills.
BENEFIT: The candidate will have the opportunity to develop hands-on experience in sustainable and precision agriculture in arid climates, as well as the opportunity to contribute to climate change adaptation efforts in rural communities. There will also be the possibility of accommodation provided on-site and meals may be available upon agreement.
USEFUL INFORMATION: Piura is an accessible city, Monthly Expenses may vary depending on lifestyle, on average: €90 to €225 for housing (if not provided by the program); €90 to €135 for food (varies depending on meals provided); €18 to €45 for transportation.
CONTACTS: To apply or request more information, contact ulopezg@unp.edu.pe or ivan.paucekpagan2@unibo.it, enclosing your CV and a letter of motivation.
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