PhD Soil Science PhD/DPhil

Soil is vital natural resource as it provides sustenance for flora and fauna. Soil science has long been related to the body of knowledge of the soil environment i.e., its formation and the dynamic processes associated with it, and its application to agronomic practices. The knowledge of soils gained through research has been used by practitioners in such fields as engineering, biology, hydrology and geology. Soil science contributes to solving social issues such as global change, food safety, sustainable agriculture, the country space and biodiversity.The PhD programme in the Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soils is covered through research only. The discipline has a promise to produce competent graduates to face future challenges of utilization, conservation and management of the soil resource.Soil science must continue to expand beyond its traditional identification with agriculture as it becomes a full partner in the earth, ecological and environmental sciences. There is need to expand education for soil science students into areas such as waste recycling, soil and water quality, global climate change, soil stability, economic viability, and food security and safety. The PhD programme in soil science fills this gap as it crosses disciplinary boundaries, encompasses ecological principles, quantifies soil diversity and quality, and enhances environmental protection. The PhD programme prepares students for successful professional or academic careers.