USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
NORMAN E. BORLAUG INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE
AND TECHNOLOGY FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
(BORLAUG FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM)
FISCAL YEAR 2016 REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND
OTHERS
Application Deadline: May 16, 2016
Email: [email protected], and [email protected]
Website: http://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/borlaug-fellowship-program
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number (CFDA) – 10.777
USDA Funding Opportunity Number: BFP-2016-EAST AND WEST AFRICA-PLANT
HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
1
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Table of Contents
Summary Of Award Opportunity ................................................................................................................. 3
Section I: Funding Opportunity Description ................................................................................................. 4
A.
Program Description ........................................................................................................................ 4
B.
Program Responsibilities Of Host Institutions................................................................................. 5
Section II: Award Information ...................................................................................................................... 8
A.
Estimate Of Funds ........................................................................................................................... 9
B.
Start Dates And Performance Periods .............................................................................................. 9
C.
Type Of Award ................................................................................................................................ 9
Section III: Eligibility Information ............................................................................................................... 9
A.
Eligibility Requirements .................................................................................................................. 9
B.
Cost Sharing And Matching Requirements ..................................................................................... 9
C.
Funding Restrictions ........................................................................................................................ 9
Section IV: Application And Submission Information ................................................................................. 9
A.
Address To Request Application Package ....................................................................................... 9
B.
Content And Form Of Application Submission:............................................................................ 10
Host University Administrative Checklist .............................................................................................. 12
C.
Submission Deadlines And Times ................................................................................................. 14
D.
Funding Restrictions ...................................................................................................................... 14
Allowable Costs: ............................................................................................................................ 14
Unallowable Costs: ........................................................................................................................ 15
E.
Other Submisssion Requirements .................................................................................................. 15
Section V: Application Review Information .............................................................................................. 15
A.
Review Criteria .............................................................................................................................. 15
B.
Review And Selection Process ...................................................................................................... 16
Section VI: Award Administration Information ......................................................................................... 16
A.
Award Notices ............................................................................................................................... 16
B.
Administrative And National Policy Requirements....................................................................... 16
C.
Reporting Requirements: ............................................................................................................... 16
Section VII: Agency Contact ...................................................................................................................... 16
Section VIII: Other Information ................................................................................................................. 17
Section IX: Borlaug Fellow Proposal And Research Plan .......................................................................... 18
2
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
FOREIGN AGRICULTURAL SERVICE
BORLAUG FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
Summary of Award Opportunity
USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is seeking U.S. universities to host Englishspeaking agricultural scientists from low and middle-income countries under the Norman E.
Borlaug International Agricultural Science and Technology Fellowship Program (Borlaug
Fellowship Program). These Fellows have been competitively selected based on research
priorities, academic and professional accomplishments, commitment to Borlaug Fellowship
Program goals, and leadership qualities. The Fellow’s proposal and research plan appears at the
end of this notice. USDA recommends that the program begin in Fall 2016; however, priority
should be given to a time that is appropriate for the Fellow’s proposed research topic. The
program’s duration should be 12 weeks unless otherwise indicated.
Each Fellow has a specific research topic. Here is a summary of the applicants and a brief
description of their research topics:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Fellow #1 (Male); Kenya; Maize lethal necrosis in Southern Rift regions of Kenya
Fellow #2 (Female); Kenya; Fertilizer optimization to facilitate increased crop yields
Fellow #3 (Male); Kenya; Microencapsulation of mushrooms spores
Fellow #4 (Male); Rwanda; Exploring genetic variability for brown-streak cassava
disease in Rwanda
5. Fellow #5 (Male): Ghana; Genetic improvement of cucurbits
6. Fellow #6 (Male): Ghana; Improved peanut varieties; disease resistance for higher yields
7. Fellow #7 (Male): Senegal; Downy mildew disease resistance in millet
Section IX provides each Fellow’s proposal with background information and research plan.
This notice identifies the Borlaug Fellowship Program deadline, legislative authority, eligibility
and proposal requirements, funding restrictions, cost share requirements, allowable and
unallowable costs, reporting requirements, program purpose and priorities, focus areas and
recommended topics, application and submission information, application review, selection and
notification process, agency program contact information, and mailing address.
CATALOG OF FEDERAL DOMESTIC ASSISTANCE: This program is listed in the
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance under 10.777.
AWARD TYPE: Cost Reimbursable Agreement for U.S. Universities
DEADLINE: Applications must be received by May 16th, 2016.
3
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY: The legislative authority for the Borlaug Fellowship Program
is provided in 7 USC 3319J, Pub. L. 95-113, title XIV, §1473G, as added Pub. L. 110-234, title
VII, §7139, May 22, 2008, 122 Stat. 1231, and Pub. L. 110-246, §4(a), Title VII, §7139, June 18,
2008, 122 Stat. 1664, 1992. Authority also comes from the National Agricultural Research,
Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 enacted as Title XIV of the Food and Agriculture
Act of 1977, 7 U.S.C. 3319(a), 7 U.S.C. 3318(b).
FAS reviews proposed project costs to make certain those costs are reasonable and allowable per
applicable federal regulations. This program is subject to the provisions of
2 CFR Part 200, grant, cooperative, joint venture, and cost-reimbursable agreement
recipients/cooperators (including, universities, non-profits, States, Cities/Counties, Tribes, forprofits, and foreign organizations) are subject to Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations and
other legal requirements, including, but not limited to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
2 CFR Part 25, Universal Identifier and Central Contractor Registration
2 CFR Part 170, Reporting Subaward and Executive Compensation Information
2 CFR Part 175, Award Term for Trafficking in Persons
2 CFR Part 180 and Part 417, OMB Guidelines to Agencies on Government wide
Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement)
5. 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit
Requirements for Federal Awards, as adopted by USDA through 2 CFR part 400.
University indirect costs for cost reimbursable agreements are limited to 10% of direct
costs (7 USC 3319a).
Section I: Funding Opportunity Description
A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Norman E. Borlaug International Agricultural Science and Technology Fellowship Program
promotes food security and economic growth by increasing scientific knowledge and
collaborative research to improve agricultural productivity. This program targets promising,
early- to mid-career, English-speaking scientists and policymakers from developing or middleincome countries. Fellows spend 8-12 weeks in the United States and work one-on-one with
U.S. scientists in their field. Mentors coordinate the Fellows’ training, and they visit the
Fellows’ countries for 5-10 days within 6-12 months after completion of the training in the U.S.
to continue collaborative efforts.
During the program, the Fellows learn new research techniques, gain exposure to the latest
scientific developments in various fields of agriculture, access fully-equipped laboratories and
libraries, and learn about unique public-private partnerships that help fund agricultural research
and science. Equally important, this program provides international scientists and policymakers
with opportunities to establish long-term contacts with U.S. scientists and to apply newly gained
knowledge from U.S. institutions to their country's research and development programs.
4
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
B. PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITIES OF HOST INSTITUTIONS
Assignment of a Principal Investigator (Training Coordinator)
The host institution will designate a contact person as the Principal Investigator (PI) responsible
for coordinating all administrative and programmatic arrangements.
Assignment of a Mentor
A key component of the program is matching the Fellow with a mentor. The host institution will
select an appropriate mentor for one-on-one work with the Fellow for the duration of the
program.
Mentor Roles
 The mentor will establish a professional relationship, providing guidance and training in
the Fellow’s research and studies.
 The mentor will work with the Fellow before arrival to discuss appropriate work plan,
site visits, and other arrangements. A work plan should be agreed upon and finalized no
later than 2 weeks after the program start date.
 The mentor will provide draft of work plan through the PI to USDA/FAS for consultation
and approval approximately 2 weeks before the commencement of the program.
 The mentor agrees to commit a significant amount of time each week for one-on-one
work with the Fellow during the program.
 The mentor will continue communicating with the Fellow beyond the end of the program
in the U.S. through the mentor visit.
 Mentor will submit quarterly progress reports that indicate all program activities
conducted (form SF-PPR).
 The mentor may assign other faculty members to assist with Fellow’s training and
research activities.
 Mentor may not be assigned to multiple Fellows during the same time frame.
Mentor Follow-up Visit
 The mentor visit is an essential and unique part of the Borlaug Fellowship Program. The
reciprocal visit is required, not optional.
 The mentor will work with the Fellow to plan a follow-up visit to the Fellow’s home
country. The trip should occur within 6 months to 1 year after the program ends.
 The PI should provide USDA/FAS with an agenda for mentor’s travel, including goals
and objectives.
 The PI must consult with USDA/FAS prior to finalizing plans or purchasing plane
tickets for the reciprocal visit. Mentor’s travel information must be provided for
emergency contact purposes and country clearance (if required by the FAS Overseas
Office).
 The mentor will provide a trip report highlighting the trip’s activities and results
through the PI to USDA/FAS within 30 days after the visit.
5
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS

Visa

The mentor should plan to meet with the USDA/FAS Attaché or staff from the U.S.
Embassy while they are traveling, if feasable. USDA/FAS can assist with coordination
prior to the trip.
USDA/FAS will provide a DS-2019 for the Fellow to request and obtain a J-1 Visa.
USDA/FAS will provide instructions to the Fellow regarding the application process, the
amount of lead-time needed, and any paperwork required. The visa start and end date
will be coordinated with the host institution who will be responsible for purchasing round
trip plane tickets for the fellow to come to the U.S. for his or her program.
Travel and Transportation
 The host institution must comply with the Federal Travel Regulations (41 CFR 300 et
seq.).
 The host institution will provide round trip, economy class, international airfare from the
Fellow’s home to the university.
 The host institution is responsible for arranging and purchasing all domestic travel related
to the Fellow’s training program.
 The host institution will provide housing for the Fellow for the duration of the training
program, taking into account gender and cultural norms.
 The host institution will pay lodging fees directly. The host institution will not require
the Fellow to pay for his or her lodging expenses, whether through reimbursement or
advance payment.
 Lodging will include a private bedroom, private or shared bathroom, access to a laundry
room, and access to a kitchen with pots, pans, and utensils.
 Basic necessities, such as sheets, towels, and cleaning supplies (if not already provided),
will be provided for Fellow’s use. The Fellow should not have to pay for these items.
 Lodging will be within walking distance to the campus/training location or easily
accessible by public transportation.
 If public transportation is required to access campus/training location, the host institution
will provide the Fellow with a bus pass or proper allowance for transportation expenses.
 When planning lodging options, the host institution should check with the Fellow and
account for any special dietary restrictions or preferences.
Meals and Incidentals (M&IE)
 The host institution will provide each Fellow with meal and living allowances for the
duration of stay.
 Daily M&IE allowance shall be calculated based on current GSA per diem rates.
 The host institution can determine the frequency of per diem allotments, but the Fellow
must receive per diem within the first week of the Fellowship. The PI must inform the
Fellow and USDA/FAS immediately if this cannot be accommodated.
Emergency Health Insurance
6
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS




The host institution will purchase emergency health insurance for the Fellow for the
duration of stay, as required for all J1 Visa holders (22 CFR 62.14).
The Fellow will not be required to purchase his or her health insurance and then be
reimbursed.
The host institution will educate the Fellow as to what is covered under health insurance
policy, especially highlighting that pre-existing medical conditions are not covered.
The host institution will alert USDA/FAS staff if any health/medical conditions arise
during the Fellowship.
Communication
 The host institution will initiate contact with the Fellow as soon as possible.
 The host institution will develop the training program in consultation with USDA/FAS
and the Fellow.
 The host institution will keep USDA/FAS informed regarding any logistical or program
planning.
 The host institution will notify USDA/FAS immediately upon Fellow’s physical arrival
and departure from the U.S.
 The host institution will provide USDA/FAS with the Fellow’s temporary U.S. address
and phone number, and emergency contact numbers for the PI, mentor, or other
appropriate institution personnel. This information is required so that Fellow can be
reached in the event of an emergency.
Fellowship Program
 The host institution will provide educational materials and supplies to each Fellow
necessary for their full participation in the fellowship.
 The host institution will pay for all fees related to the Fellow’s training program, such as
(but not limited to) technology fees, administrative fees, laboratory fees, etc.
 The host institution will arrange relevant field visits to a local farm, processing plant,
private industry, or other related industry as applicable to the Fellow’s training program.
 The host institution will ensure the Fellow submits an interim and final report (2-3 pages
each) to USDA/FAS before the Fellow leaves the United States. USDA/FAS will provide
a report template.
Orientation
 The PI/Training Coordinator will communicate directly with the Fellow at least 4-8
weeks before his or her arrival in the U.S. to ensure that all pertinent information is
provided, including:
 Name and contact information of PI/Training Coordinator
 Name and contact information of mentor
 Institution information, weather information, and clothing needs
 Housing and M&IE allowance
 Program plan and anticipated site visits
 Professional development expectations
 Reminder to bring any necessary prescription medications
7
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS


Explain what is and is not covered under emergency health insurance policy (e.g. no
pre-existing conditions, no dental, etc.)
Institution will provide an orientation upon the Fellow’s arrival to acquaint them with
campus and community resources:
 Explain and demonstrate local bus/transportation options
 Explain cultural and legal expectations
 USDA will provide a welcome and orientation packet for mentors
Progress Reports
 The Principal Investigator or Mentor will submit quarterly progress reports. The
Principal Investigator or Mentor will use Performance Progress Report (SF-PPR) to
submit quarterly progress reports.
 The Principal Investigator or Mentor will submit a final report to USDA/FAS within 30
days after the Mentor visit. USDA/FAS will provide additional guidance and a template
for the final report.
 Reports should include the following:
 Summary of activities, accomplishments, and any problems encountered or overcome
 Photographs, when possible
 Completed program evaluations and action plan
 An invoice cannot be paid if a progress report is past due, and will not be paid until the
required report has been received.
Financial Reporting
 Financial reports will follow the Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and
Agreements, 2 CFR 215.
 Invoices will use the Request for Advance or Reimbursement (SF-270).
 Invoices will be submitted electronically to [email protected] and
copied to the USDA/FAS program manager and USD/FAS program assistant.
 A summary of expenses that aligns expense totals to the agreement’s budget line items
must be included.
 A detailed breakdown of expenses must be included with SF-270. Payment will not be
processed without supporting documentation.
 A final invoice must be submitted within 90 days of the end of the period of performance
for the agreement.
 Costs must be reported in accordance with the regulations that govern the agreement, and
must follow the applicable Federal cost principles 2 CFR 200. The institution cannot be
reimbursed for costs that are contrary to the specific terms of the agreement or are outside
its scope.
 A Federal Financial Report (SF-425) must be submitted quarterly and within 90 days of
the end of the period of performance for the agreement.
 An invoice cannot be paid if a financial report is past due, and it will not be paid until the
required report has been received.
Section II: Award Information
8
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
A. ESTIMATE OF FUNDS
Awards are anticipated to range from $25,000 to $40,000 per fellowship. USDA Foreign
Agricultural Service will fund agreements for the Borlaug Fellowship Program. For more
information on the Borlaug Program, please visit our website at:
http://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/borlaug-fellowship-program.
B. START DATES AND PERFORMANCE PERIODS
Activities pursuant to this REI will be for a 2 year period. The estimated start date is on or about
July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2018. Fellowships will begin between September 2016 and
August 2017, depending on appropriate timing for activities to occur based on any seasonal
needs for the program.
C. TYPE OF AWARD
USDA will enter into a cost reimbursable agreement (7 CFR 3319a) with State cooperative
institutions or other colleges or universities Program staff will maintain involvement in the
administration of the Borlaug Fellowship Program.
Section III: Eligibility Information
A. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Proposals may be received from U.S. state cooperative institutions or other colleges and
universities and minority serving institutions (MSIs). Proposals from smaller academic
institutions, MSIs (in particular American Indian, Alaska Native, Pacific Islander, Hispanic,
Asian American, and African American institutions) are especially encouraged to apply.
A proposal from a consortium of organizations must be submitted as a single proposal with one
U.S. institution serving as the lead and all other organizations as team members, when
applicable. An individual mentor must be identified for each Borlaug Fellow. A single mentor
may not host two fellows simultaneously. The Principal Investigator (PI) and mentor must hold
a position at an eligible U.S. institution.
B. COST SHARING AND MATCHING REQUIREMENTS
 This program has no statutory formula.
 This program has no matching requirements.
C. FUNDING RESTRICTIONS
This is a cost reimbursable agreement issued under 7 U.S.C. 3319a.
Section IV: Application and Submission Information
A. ADDRESS TO REQUEST APPLICATION PACKAGE
This announcement contains all instructions and links to all forms required to complete the
application. All applications must be submitted in a single PDF document. The application
deadline is May 16th, 2016. No mailed or facsimile submissions will be accepted.
9
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
B. CONTENT AND FORM OF APPLICATION SUBMISSION:
Institutions may submit proposals to host more than one Borlaug Fellow. Institutions interested
in hosting one or more Fellows should submit a proposal following the guidelines below:


















Complete SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance for a single Borlaug Fellow.
USDA/FAS cannot accept applications for multiple fellows in a single application.
Indicate the name of the institution applying to host the Fellows.
Indicate the country, research interest, and reference number.
Identify a Primary Investigator.
Identify a Mentor. A Mentor may not be assigned to multiple Fellows who are in the
U.S. at the same time.
Provide a tentative research plan based on the Fellow’s research proposal and action plan,
including topics covered, field visits, and other activities.
Include a narrative description of the proposed fellowship, how it will be administered,
and the role of the university faculty and support staff.
Provide a summary of relevant institutional capabilities for hosting international scientists
and policymakers in the proposed field.
Briefly describe the research expertise and international experience of the mentor in the
Fellow’s field of interest.
Provide a one to two page curriculum vitae for the mentor and other collaborating
researchers involved in the proposed program.
Identify the expected skills or knowledge to be acquired by the Fellow at the end of the
program
Provide a program budget using Standard Form -424A- Budget Information Non
Construction Programs, including a detailed budget worksheet (see page 12).
Provide a budget narrative. All line items should be described in sufficient detail to
enable FAS to determine that the costs are reasonable and allowable for the project in
accordance with federal regulations.
If attendance at the World Food Prize in Des Moines, Iowa during October 2016 is
feasible, then the Fellowship may be extended one additional week, not to exceed 13
weeks, to ensure the Fellow receives up to 12 weeks of training.
o If attending the World Food Prize, the budget should include time and funding for the
Fellow and Mentor to attend. An adjustment to the Fellow’s M&IE must be made for
the time spent in Iowa.
Complete AD-3030, Representations Regarding Felony Conviction and Tax Delinquent
Status for Corporate Applicants.
Complete AD-3031, Assurance Regarding Felony Conviction or Tax Delinquent Status
for Corporate Applicants
Complete the Host University Administrative Checklist on university administrative
policies
Submit all application materials as attachments to a single email.
o The primary document submitted in response to this REI with all information
requested should be titled Statement of Work.
10
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
o Include all application information that is not a specific form in a single PDF
document.
Successful applicants will be required to submit all relevant national certifications and
compliance documents prior to awards being issued.
11
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
HOST UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATIVE CHECKLIST
Please complete the following checklist concerning the university’s policies on providing per
diem funds to exchange visitors. This information is for USDA internal use only and does not
determine your eligibility to serve as a host institution.
Host University Policies
YES
NO
Will the mentor listed in the proposal be present for the majority of the
fellowship?
Will the mentor be able to spend time meeting with fellow individually
each week?
Will the university be able to provide per diem within the first week of
the Fellow’s arrival?
Will the university be able to provide fully furnished lodging with
kitchen facilities?
Does the university withhold federal tax on the participants’ per diem
and housing?* If so, you must list this expense as a separate line item
on the budget.
*
Note that Borlaug Fellows (as trainees, not students) are considered EXEMPT INDIVIDUALS
under the IRS Substantial Presence Test for tax purposes. The exemption falls under one or both
of the following categories: either the Foreign Government-Related Individuals standard or the
Closer Connection Exception. The only requirement is to complete IRS Form 8843 (Sections 1
and 2). No taxes should be withheld from Borlaug Fellows since they are exempt.
12
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Budget Worksheet
Host Institution:
Estimated Dates:
REI#/Country/Fellow#
SF-424 Category
TRAVEL/Housing
TRAVEL
OTHER
TRAVEL
TRAVEL
TRAVEL
TRAVEL
Line Items
Rate
Days
Subtotal
Fellow's Logistical Expenses
1. Lodging
2. Meals and Incidentals
3. Federal Tax
4. Medical Insurance
6. Local Transportation
7. Airfare - International
8. Airfare - Domestic (If Applicable)
Subtotal
TRAVEL
SUPPLIES
SUPPLIES
Fellow's Professional Development
1. Field Tours
2. Educational Materials and IT Expenses
3. Shipping Materials
Subtotal
PERSONNEL
FRINGE BENEFITS
PERSONNEL
FRINGE BENEFITS
SUPPLIES
Host Institution Fees
1. Training Coordinator (Salary)
1.b. Training Coordinator (Fringe Benefits)
2. Mentor Fee
2.b. Mentor (Fringe Benefits)
3. Laboratory Expenses
Subtotal
TRAVEL
TRAVEL
OTHER
World Food Prize Symposium (Oct. 2016; If Applicable)
1. Domestic Transportation
2. Lodging
3. Conference Fee
Subtotal
TRAVEL
TRAVEL
TRAVEL
TRAVEL
SUPPLIES
INDIRECT
Mentor Follow up Activity (5-10 Days)
1. Mentor Airfare – International
2. Mentor Domestic In-Country Travel (If Applicable)
3. Lodging
4. Meals & Incidentals
5. Supplies for Trainings/Workshops
Subtotal
Total Program Costs
Indirect Costs/Overhead (10%)
Total Request
13
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
C. SUBMISSION DEADLINES AND TIMES
Submit all application materials in a single email. The following forms are required: SF-424,
SF-424A, AD-3030, and AD-3031. Include all application information that is not a specific form
in a single PDF document.
Funding opportunities will be advertised via the USDA/NIFA listserv. All proposals must be
submitted to the email address below with all required forms. Proposals not submitted to the
application email address by the stated deadline will not be accepted.

Borlaug Fellowship Program Email: [email protected]
D. FUNDING RESTRICTIONS
Allowable Costs:
To help in this review and to expedite the award process, budgets must include a narrative
detailing all line items. The categories listed below are examples of some of the more common
items found in project budgets. All items should be described in sufficient detail that would
enable FAS to determine that the costs are reasonable and allowable for the project per federal
regulations.
1. Salaries and Fringe Benefits:
Requested funds may be allocated toward salaries, fringe benefits, or the combination thereof.
No more than 20% of the requested funds may be allocated toward salaries, consultant fees,
fringe benefits, or the combination thereof. Only individuals that hold positions at eligible U.S.
institutions should be listed in this category.
2. Travel:
For domestic travel, provide the purpose of the travel and information used in calculating the
estimated cost, such as the destination, number of travelers, and estimated cost per trip. There are
several restrictions associated with traveling on federal funds. In most cases, airfare must be
purchased in economy class from a U.S. carrier. Travelers must also adhere to federally
mandated domestic per diem guidelines. Additional information may be found in the circulars
listed in the “Legislative Authority” section of this announcement.
3. Supplies:
All personal property excluding equipment, intangible property, and debt instruments as defined
in this section.
4. Other Direct Costs:
Other Direct Costs are those anticipated charges not included in other budget categories,
including materials and supplies, lab fees, publication costs, reasonable consultant fees,
computer services, sub-awards (the level of detail required for the sub-award budget is the same
14
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
as the recipient organization), equipment rental, facility rental, conferences and meetings,
speaker fees, honorariums.
5. Indirect Costs:
Indirect Costs may not exceed 10% of direct costs.
6. Tax Withholding:
Borlaug Fellows (as trainees, not students) are considered EXEMPT INDIVIDUALS under the
IRS Substantial Presence Test for tax purposes. The exemption falls under one or both of the
following categories: either the Foreign Government-Related Individuals standard or the Closer
Connection Exception. Tax treaties might also exist between the U.S. and the Fellow’s home
country. The only requirement is to complete IRS Form 8843 (Sections 1 and 2). No taxes
should be withheld from Borlaug Fellows since they are exempt.
Unallowable Costs:
General purpose equipment (no particular scientific, technical, or programmatic purpose) and
scientific equipment exceeding $5,000 or more; entertainment; capital improvements; thank you
gifts, and other expenses not directly related to the project are not allowed.
E. OTHER SUBMISSSION REQUIREMENTS
All applications must be submitted electronically as indicated above.
Section V: Application Review Information
All proposals are carefully reviewed by USDA/FAS Program Officers and other FAS staff
against the criteria listed below, including others who are experts in a particular field, as
appropriate.
A. REVIEW CRITERIA

Technical Expertise and Experience (40 points): Mentor must have appropriate technical
background to provide the desired, advanced training. If necessary, other appropriate
collaborating scientists should be identified to meet any of the objectives which the mentor
cannot address. Mentor’s experience and knowledge of relevant agricultural conditions within
the Fellow’s country or a similar location will be considered as appropriate. The trainer’s
experience with international training and adult-education will also be considered.

Overall Program (35 points): The overall program plan and design should be relevant to the
Fellow’s objectives background. The program plan should be thorough, and it should help
achieve the desired post-program deliverables and the Fellow’s research goals and objectives.
Relevant agricultural practices within the region of the university will be considered as
appropriate. Relevant university resources should be identified. Additional
resources/organizations should be identified as appropriate. Site visits and meetings should be
meaningful to the content of the program, if included.
15
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS

Budget (25 points): The proposed budget should be appropriate for the length of the program.
The budget should include appropriate cost savings where available. Salary and fringe benefits
expenses should not be excessive.
B. REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS
Other factors may also be taken into consideration such as regional diversity and MSI status in
the review process. After review by appropriate offices, it is expected that all applicants will be
notified within 2 months after the closing date for applications.
Section VI: Award Administration Information
A. AWARD NOTICES
Applicants should expect to be contacted by program staff for clarification and additional
discussion on any budget related issues before final determination of successful applicants. Any
notification by the program office regarding the selection of an institution is not an authorization
to begin performance. No pre-award costs can be charged. The notice of award signed by the
Deputy Administrator of USDA/FAS/OCBD is the authorizing document. This document will
be sent by electronic mail to the university. Both parties must sign this document before the
agreement is in force. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified of the status of their application
by email.
B. ADMINISTRATIVE AND NATIONAL POLICY REQUIREMENTS
Certifications regarding debarment Suspension, Drug Free Workplace, Felony Conviction and
Tax Delinquent Status, and other national administrative assurances and policies are required.
The cooperator must adhere to administrative requirements, cost principles, and audit
requirements as contained in 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost
Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards.
C. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS:
Primary Investigators are required to submit mid-term and final Fellow’s performance reports on
the U.S. portion of the Borlaug Fellowship. A final mentor’s visit report including a final
evaluation should be submitted no later than 30 days after the completion of the mentor visit.



Financial reports will use SF-425.
Progress Reports will use SF-PPR.
Invoices will use SF-270.
Section VII: Agency Contact
Applicants can direct questions or request help before the deadline for submission of the
application for these funding opportunities via the contact information below:


Borlaug Fellowship General Email: [email protected]
Borlaug Africa: Karen Uetrecht, (202) 690-3359 or [email protected]
16
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS


Borlaug Eastern Europe: Ed Gerard, (202) 690-1983 or [email protected]
Borlaug Asia/Latin America: Sarah Librea, (202) 720-2018 or
[email protected]
Section VIII: Other Information
The USDA Borlaug Fellowship Program began in 2004. More than 750 Fellows from 64
countries have been trained to date. Additional program information is available at
http://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/borlaug-fellowship-program.
Related Requests for Expressions of interest will be distributed by region and topic including:
Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, North Africa, East/ Sub-Saharan Africa. This will be
posted on the NIFA listserv.
17
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Section IX: Borlaug Fellow Proposal and Research Plan
No.
Fellow 1
Country
Kenya
Fellow 2
Kenya
Fellow 3
Kenya
Fellow 4
Rwanda
Fellow 5
Ghana
Fellow 6
Ghana
Fellow 7
Senegal
Proposal Summary
Managing maize lethal necrosis disease (MLND)
through integrated approach in South Rift regions
of Kenya to be used by extension officers in
training of the stakeholders and farmers on control
and management of the disease.
The goal of my research is to develop fertilizer
optimization tools for major staple cereals and
legumes which will contribute to improved
fertilizer use efficiency, increased crop yields and
household incomes in smallholder farms of Kenya.
Microencapsulation of mushroom spores as viable
alternative to grain-based mushroom spawn
preparation
Exploring genetic variability for cassava
physiological post-harvest deterioration and brown
streak disease to reduce post-harvest losses in
Rwanda.
Genetic Improvement and promotion of nutritious
fruit crops (cucurbits) in Ghana aimed towards food
and nutritional security
Screening and selection of peanut landraces for
drought tolerance and foliar diseases such as early
and late leaf spots.
Genomic studies on QTLs controlling downy
mildew resistance under Senegal Environment
18
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Fellow #1 (Male); Kenya; Maize lethal necrosis in Southern Rift regions of Kenya
The goal of my research is to evaluate the effectiveness of host plant resistance and
cultural practices in reducing maize lethal necrosis (MLN) disease incidence in South Rift
region. My specific objectives are: Determine the prevalence of MLN disease and sequence the
virus to identify the various strains occurring in South Rift region Evaluate the commercial
maize hybrids, CIMMYT elite inbred lines and farmer-preferred hybrids for resistance to MLN
disease at various hot spot areas within South Rift region. Assess the effectiveness of cultural
practices in reducing the incidence of MLN disease in South Rift region. Determine the effect of
soil fertility on MLN disease severity.
Maize is an important crop in the daily diet of more than 1.2 billion people worldwide. The crop
is ranked as the third most important cereal plant after wheat and rice in the world (Khalili et al.,
2013). Its cultivation spans the entire continent and is the dominant cereal food crop in many
countries, accounting for 56% of total harvested area of annual food crops and 30-70% of total
caloric consumption (Tefera et al., 2011). In Kenya maize production currently is under threat of
maize lethal necrosis (MLN) disease which has been reported to be a serious disease of maize
causing yield loses as high as 90% when severe (Wangai et al., 2012; Ochieng et al.,2012). The
current annual production in the country is 3,390,941.0 tonnes (FAOSTAT, 2013) against the
national demand and with the outbreak of MLN disease, the annual production is expected to fall
from 2.52 million tonnes from 3.6 million tonnes in 2014 (MOA press release, 2015). This
means for the country to bridge the deficit gap it has to import maize from countries such as
Tanzania, Uganda and Malawi. South Rift region is one of the country’s food “grain baskets”
and with the recent MLN disease outbreak, maize production is expected to decline as the
disease has been reported to cause yield losses as high as 90%-100% (Adams et al., 2012) in
high disease pressure areas. This poses a serious challenge to food security for the majority in the
region and the entire country. Further, the problem is compounded by the fact most farmers have
little knowledge on MLN disease and its control mechanisms. Thus with such scenarios, it is
expected that the disease will continue spreading to other parts of the country where maize crop
is grown. This is a real threat to food security and the very existence of seed companies because
the latter will be left with no quality seeds to sell to farmers if something is not done fast.
Through this fellowship I aim to accomplish: sequencing the isolates of MCMV to determine the
various strains occurring in the region, screening house experiments to screen for resistance of
MLN disease among the varieties showing tolerance to MLN disease, and sequencing the
varieties showing moderate tolerance or tolerance to MLN disease to identify the gene
responsible for resistance.
As the U.S. is a developed country with advanced research and technology in maize, I
will benefit so much from the mentor as the disease had been sometimes back in Kansas in the
U.S. in 1977 as corn lethal necrosis. The U.S did manage to control the disease but here in Kenya
it has become a major challenge due to poor diagnosis by farmers. Kenyan farmers also don't
understand how the disease spreads and this has contributed to faster spread of the disease.
19
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Secondly the U.S Labs are well developed with state of the art machines unlike the case in my
university where we have only one PCR machine and a few ELISA plates which makes it hard to
amplify the DNA and even to sequence it.Sequencing is only done in BECA ILRI in Nairobi at a
cost of 1000USD per sequence.This is costly for a student like me.Therefore such a mentorship
will be of great help to me in learning how to sequence the virus and in so doing my objectives
of the study will be achieved.
The information generated on appropriate management strategies will be packaged and availed to
extension officers for use in training of the stakeholders and farmers on control and management
of the disease. Another outcome is the identification of virus strains associated with MLN
disease for designing of appropriate protocols for managing the disease in the target maize
growing areas. A third outcome is the identification of hybrids and breeding lines with
resistance/tolerance to MLN disease and recommendations for their utilization in: a) Breeding
systems (inbred lines), (b) for inclusion in national performance trials for fast track release
(experimental hybrids), and, (c) for upscaling in MLN-affected areas (commercial hybrids).
Research Action Plan
Week 1
-University and staff introduction -Laboratory orientations
Week 2-3
-Sample preparation
-Preparation of buffer and other reagents -Reconstitution and synthesis of primers -Extraction of
total RNA from the samples -Running of Reverse transcription-PCR
Week 4-6
-Purification of PCR product
-Sequencing of the respective isolates complementary DNA sequences
Week 7-8
-Trimming of the sequences
-Extract comparative sequences stored in gene bank -Multiple sequence analysis
Week 9-10
-Analysis and construction of phylogenetic trees -Genetic distance determination
Week 11-12
-Report writing and publication
20
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Fellow #2 (Female); Kenya; Fertilizer optimization to facilitate increased crop yields
The goal of my research is to develop fertilizer optimization tools for major staple cereals
and legumes which will contribute to improved fertilizer use efficiency, increased crop yields
and household incomes in smallholder farms of Kenya. To achieve this goal, by the end of the 12
weeks, I aim to develop efficient tools that aid optimal fertilizer recommendations in maize,
bean, wheat and finger millet production for use by extension workers and small scale farmers of
Northern Rift Valley Kenya using data collected from my trials and develop a framework for
determining optimal fertilizer use in consideration of other practices such as manure application
using results from my and other’s research, and also submit two journal papers from this work.
In Kenya, several fertilizer recommendations based on crops and soil type over a wide
region were developed and disseminated to farmers through the Fertilizer Use Recommendations
Project (FURP) in 1994. Despite this, low soil fertility and declining crop yields characterize
many farming systems in the country, especially in the bread basket and granary regions of the
Northern Rift Valley Kenya. Small scale farmers who comprise over 75% of the farming
population of the area hardly utilize the FURP recommendations due to increased fertilizer costs,
low output prices, inefficient market systems and other competing requirements for finances. To
enhance adoption of fertilizer use by resource constrained farmers, recommendations that
maximize net returns per acre on small investments in fertilizer are needed. Although farmers in
the Northern Rift Valley are aware of the contribution of crop management to crop yields, poor
fertilizer management is still a major cause of low and declining crop yields. Research shows
that fertilizer accounts for 30-50% of the crop yields, therefore, optimal management of
fertilizers will increase crop output leading to higher net returns. In small scale crop livestock
farming systems of Northern Rift Valley Kenya, optimization of fertilizers can be achieved by
allocating fertilizer to an optimum crop-nutrient-rates combinations and in consideration of other
practices such as manuring, rotations, and green manure crops. According to Kaizzi (2014), these
combinations depend on the cost of nutrients from the fertilizers, magnitude of response from the
applied nutrient and price of the grains.
In my career, I have been involved in several projects that tested response of fertilizers
and nutrient rates in an integrated soil fertility management framework. This work was done in
collaboration with farmers and extension officers, however, adoption of the fertilizer
recommendations is still very low due to fertilizer costs, severe financial constraints of most
farmers, and need to diversify crop enterprises in small farms. Over the past two years, I have
been involved in a project aimed at Optimizing Fertilizer Recommendations in Africa, where I
have contributed in assembling legacy data from past trials in the country. I was also involved in
nutrient response trials for the staple food crops in the Northern Rift Valley Region (maize,
beans, Finger millet and wheat). This project has developed a fertilizer optimization tool that
uses crop nutrient functions to recommend fertilizer rates that optimize profitability depending
on the farmers' financial capability. Because of the massive data collected in OFRA Project, I
need to learn how to use this data to develop practical recommendations that are easily accessible
by extension workers and farmers using this tool. I need guidance to assist me in publishing the
results from this work in good impact factor journals. Through this fellowship I am interested in
21
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
working closely with my mentor to develop the fertilizer optimization tool (FOT) for the
Northern Rift Valley and learn how to disseminate the results to the farmers. I will also learn
how to utilize the data collected to make recommendations for the staple food crops in my
mandate region and to learn basics of GIS for extrapolation of information. By the end of the
Fellowship, I intend to develop at least two (2) FOTs for the major cereal and legume crops in
the Northern Rift Valley region for use by extension officers and farmers and submit at least two
(2) journal papers.
In Kenya, small scale farmers comprise > 80% of the farming population, with the
Northern Rift Valley region contributing to the highest production of maize and wheat, the staple
cereal crops in the country. Due to climate change and declining soil fertility, crop yields are low
(<0.5t/ha), contributing to food insecurity. The Northern Rift Valley region contributes to the
highest percentage of food stored in the strategic grain reserve, to be used in the food deficit
areas in Kenya, forcing the government to import almost 10 million tons per year especially in
periods of prolonged dry spells. Through the Borlaug Fellowship, I hope to contribute to
increased food production through efficient use of fertilizers. The fertilizer optimization tool that
I will develop with assistance from the US adviser targets the production of a variety of crops per
farm and advices farmers on partitioning of available finance to fertilizer use for these crops.
Conducting the research and developing optimization tools is not sufficient on it’s on as
Extension, other farmer advisors including fertilizer retailers, and farmers themselves need to
learn to use the tools in management decisions. Therefore, while on this Fellowship, I will adapt
training resources and methods from Uganda. When I return to Kenya, I will work with
government and NGO extension to enable advisors and farmers in this optimization approach so
that farmers can increase their profits and gradually break out of their cycle of poverty. Since
agriculture is the main driving force of Kenyan economy, the increased house hold incomes in
small scale farms will contribute to the overall economic development of the country.
Research Action Plan
Week 1 Orientation to the University, department and staff introductions
Week 2&3- Sessions with scientific adviser to learn basics in the use of GIS, GIGA and other
tools for extrapolation of information to assist in development of coefficients. Use of
environmental envelops to generate coefficients. Practice on the use of the tools to produce
coefficients for the North Rift Valley Kenya cereal and legume crops
Week 4-6 - Sessions with the Scientific Advisers to learn how to develop Fertilizer Optimization
Tools for computer users, paper versions for the farmers without computers. I will also learn how
to generate fertilizer use decision process into an integrated nutrient management framework that
considers soil test information . During this period, I will develop at least two computer
generated FOTs for 2 agro- ecological zones in Kenya and two paper versions of the FOTs.
22
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Week 7&8 - Sessions with Scientific adviser to learn how to deliver the extension message to
farmers and extension officers, discuss on the sections to be included in the manual. Training
with the extension specialists to learn more on how they relate with farmers and transfer
Week 9&10-Sessions with scientific adviser to analyse my trial data for the two years, interpret
results. During this period I will draft two journal papers from the legacy and research data.
Week 11&12- I will finalize the two journal papers and submit to refereed journals. I will also
finalize and produce the extension training manuals and materials
23
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Fellow #3 (Male); Kenya; Microencapsulation of Mushrooms Spores
The goal of my research is to develop mushroom spawn through microencapsulation of
the spores with a view to reducing over reliance on food grains for mushroom spawn production
My specific research objective include: 1) to determine suitable carrier material for
microencapsulation of mushroom spores 2) to determine optimal conditions for survival of
encapsulated spores during storage 3) to evaluate growth rate of microencapsulated and spray
dried spores on agricultural residues.
Technology of mushroom spawn production involves the use of grains as carrier material
for mycelia development. The most commonly used cereals include sorghum, wheat, millet and
rye. These cereals also serve as human food and have wide applications in food industries. This
technology is not therefore suited for developing countries which are already food insufficient.
High cost of cereals has led to high cost of mushroom spawn. Development of spawn production
technology that does not use cereals as carrier materials will be of great interest to mushroom
farmers. The encapsulation processes have been widely used to protect microbial biomass from
extreme environmental conditions (oxygen, water, pH, interactions with other ingredients),
which may affect their stability and/or change their physical properties including stickiness
during storage. Among the microencapsulation processes, the spray drying process has been
proven to be a cost-effective one-step process, in comparison with other techniques such as
freeze-drying, sublimation drying. The current study therefore aims at using microencapsulation
technology to develop pawn from the mushroom spores.
During this fellowship I hope to accomplish the following:
Activity 1: Determine optimal conditions for microencapsulation of spores. The spore will be
encapsulated with sodium alginate and maltodextrin at different ratios and concentrations. The
mixture will then be spray-dried. Enumeration of the free and microencapsulated spores will be
determined by the spread plate method.
Activity 2: Determine optimal spray drying conditions. The microencapsulated spores will be
dried under low-speed agitation throughout the spray-drying process. The optimum spray-drying
conditions will be determined using response surface methodology.
Activity 3: Evaluate viability of microencapsulated spores. The growth rate of microencapsulated
spores will be evaluated by using Solid Eger Medium as the culture substrate. The growth rate
will be estimated by determining the time between inoculation of microencapsulated spore and
the time that the mycelium reaches the rim of the plate. Similarly, the growth of unencapsulated
spores in petri dish will be used as control.
Activity 4: Assess growth rate of encapsulated spores on agricultural residues: Spores on wheat
straw will be evaluated by using glass tubes containing chopped wheat straw (humidity, 70%).
The microencapsulated inoculum will be placed at the top of each tube and growth will be
estimated by determining the distance (in centimeters) colonized by the mycelium during the
second and third weeks of growth. Three repetitions will be performed for every experiment. All
samples will be incubated at 24°C in the dark.
24
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Activity 5: Examine morphology of microcapsules. The microcapsule morphology will be
visualized by scanning electronic microscopy. The dried powders of microcapsules will be fixed
on aluminum studs and coated with carbon (double sided carbon tape) and then metalized with
pure gold and observed in a scanning electronic microscope.
Activity 6: Data analyses. Growth data will be subjected to normality tests , and the effects of
spore encapsulation on growth rate will be determined by performing a one-way analysis of
variance (ANOVA).
Production of edible mushroom represents a promising tool in efforts to increase food
and nutritional security in Kenya. Mushroom production in Kenya supports the livelihoods of
thousands of resource-poor farmers, including women and peri-urban dwellers, and the market is
yet to be satisfied by domestic production alone. However, the major challenge affecting
mushroom production is high cost and poor quality of mushroom spawn. Consequently,
mushroom production has become unsustainable and unprofitable for most small scale farmers.
This study will provide alternative technique for production of mushroom spawn thereby leading
to mass production of mushroom in the country. The knowledge gained from this fellowship will
have direct impact on mushroom sub-sector in the country. With increase in mushroom
production, most people are likely to benefit along the mushroom value chain. Thriving
mushroom industry in the country will offer employment opportunities and income for most
people. Currently, a family that produces 600 kg of oyster mushroom per three months is able to
consume around 90 kg and sell the surplus at USD 6/kg (KIRDI survey report, 2012-unpublished
data). With improved mushroom spawn, mushroom production and consumption is likely to
increase.
Research Action Plan
1st week: Preparation of spore culture. The strain of Pleurotus ostreatus will be used throughout
this study. The spore culture will be maintained on potato dextrose agar slants. The slants will be
inoculated, incubated at 25 °C for 7 days and then stored at 4 °C.
2nd and 3rd week: Microencapsulation of spores. The spore will be encapsulated with sodium
alginate and maltodextrin at different ratios
(0:15, 1:14, 2:13) at concentrations (15 and 30 % solids). In a 250 mL beaker, sodium alginate
will be dissolved in 50 mL of distilled water at 50 oC under continuous agitation. Maltodextrin
will be added and mixed until a homogeneous solution will be obtained. The solution will be
cooled to 20 oC and mixed with 30 mL of the P.ostreatus spore suspension (106 CFU mL-1).
Finally, distilled water will be added to get a final volume of 100 mL, and will be homogenized
at 18,000 rpm for 2 min. The viscosity of polymer mixture will be measured using a viscometer.
The polymer will then be spray-dried. The experiments will be carried out in triplicate.
Enumeration of the free and microencapsulated spores will be determined by the spread plate
method. The percentage of survival with respect to initial spore counts before drying will be
calculated according to Rajam et al. (2012).
4th & 5th week: Optimization of spray drying
25
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
The microencapsulated spores will be dried under low-speed agitation throughout the spraydrying process. A 23 factorial experimental design will be used to establish the optimum spraydrying conditions (inlet and feeding rate) in terms of maximal spore survival and cyclone
recovery and minimum moisture levels.
6th & 7th week: Viability of microencapsulated spores. The growth rate of microencapsulated
spores will be evaluated by using Solid Eger Medium as the culture substrate. Microencapsulated
spores will be placed in the center of a petri dish. The growth rate will be estimated by
determining the time between inoculation of microencapsulated spore and the time that the
mycelium reaches the rim of the plate (diameter, 9 cm). Similarly, the growth of unencapsulated
spores in petri dish will be used as control.
8th and 9th week: Growth of encapsulated spores on agricultural residues. The growth rate of
microencapsulated spores on wheat straw will be evaluated by using glass tubes (diameter, 16
mm; length, 16 cm) containing 10 g of chopped wheat straw (humidity, 70%). The
microencapsulated inoculum will be placed at the top of each tube and growth will be estimated
by determining the distance (in centimeters) colonized by the mycelium during the second and
third weeks of growth. Three repetitions will be performed for every experiment. All samples
will be incubated at 24°C in the dark.
10th and 11th week: Morphology of microcapsules. The microcapsule morphology will be
visualized by scanning electronic microscopy. The dried powders of microcapsules will be fixed
on aluminum studs and coated with carbon (double sided carbon tape) and then metalized with
pure gold and observed in a scanning electronic microscope.
12th Week: Data analyses. Growth data will be subjected to normality tests (KolmogorovSmirnov), and the effects of spore encapsulation on growth rate will be determined by
performing a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).
26
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Fellow #4 (Male); Rwanda; Exploring genetic variability for brown-streak cassava disease in
Rwanda
The goal of this research is to investigate genetic variability and relationship between
total carotenoid content (TTC), physiological postharvest deterioration (PPD) and cassava brown
streak disease (CBSD) in order to tackle cassava post-harvest losses. My specific objectives to
achieve in this study goal are: (a) to determine losses due to physiological postharvest
deterioration and cassava brown streak disease, (b) to evaluate genetic variability among cassava
population, (c) to determine relationship between total carotenoid, physiological postharvest
deterioration and cassava brown streak disease, and (d) to recommend carotenoid enriched
cassava cultivar with reduced postharvest losses.
Cassava is an important staple source of dietary carbohydrate, and an excellent source of
vegetable from its leaves. It is of high value when it comes to food security due to its yield
potential (90 t ha-1) is higher than any other food crops (El-Sharkawy 2004). However, cassava
physiological postharvest deterioration (PPD) and brown streak disease (CBSD) are among the
greatest limitations to the development of cassava sector in Rwanda and sub Sahara Africa (SSA)
in general. The PPD and CBSD cause cassava production losses, and affecting its nutritional and
economic value (Morante et al. 2010). The considerable loss due to PPD were reported in Africa,
Latin America and Asia (Salcedo and Siritunga 2011), while there is limited information on
cassava production losses due to CBSD especially in SSA. PPD begins within 24 hours after
harvest as result of plant mechanisms to heal wounds engendered by detaching storage roots
from mother plants. It starts as a black-blue vascular discoloration (vascular streaking) and then
spreads to the parenchyma (Morante et al. 2010; Reilly et al. 2007). In addition, PPD can be
followed by microbiological deterioration which causes additional losses of cassava yield. It
rapidly renders the storage roots unpalatable, inedible and hence causes loss of market value
(Sánchez et al. 2006). CBSD on leaves and stems (CBSD-LS) affects cassava yield by
hampering photosynthesis, causing light chlorosis along veins, brown streaks on stem, and stem
die-back. CBSD root necrosis (CBSD-RN) renders cassava storage roots inedible due to cassava
flesh necrosis (yellow-brown necrosis). Currently, information about CBSD with respect to
transmission mechanism, other host plants, build-up over generations, yield losses and
management practices is limited. In Rwanda, CBSD is a relatively new disease (Legg et al.
2011); and it was found first time in 2009 in Eastern region toward Uganda, probably due to
infected cuttings crossing the border, farmers exchanging material or through natural infection
by whiteflies coming from local alternative hosts (Legg et al., 2011). Recently, it was confirmed
that CBSD is continuing to spread, causing severe losses in the absence of control measures
(Gagashaka, 2015 personnel communication).
Various approaches are being implemented to tackle PPD and CBSD effects on cassava
production such as breeding and biotechnology. It was reported that the deterioration of cassava
roots due to PPD requires oxidative stress (Xu et al. 2013; Zidenga et al. 2012). The antioxidant
property of the carotenoids found in cassava can reduce the oxidative stress and hence delay the
onset of PPD (Morante et al. 2010; Zidenga et al. 2012). However, the antioxidants were
reported to accelerated transmission of CBSD infection in cassava (Ogwok et al, 2010). This
27
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
suggests that the knowledge on relationship between carotenoid contents, PPD and CBSD
severity in cassava can be important in searching for strategies to reduce cassava postharvest
losses.
I expect to understand carotenoid genetic inheritance and its antioxidant property against
physiological postharvest deterioration and spreading of cassava brown streak disease in
parenchyma of cassava storage roots. This will provide evidence of antioxidant property of
carotenoid to delay the onset of physiological postharvest deterioration and how it accelerates
cassava brown streak disease. The findings will strategically help in determining sustainable
practices to reduce cassava postharvest losses. In USA, laboratory infrastructure and libraries are
more advanced than in developing countries, mentor in US will guide me through discovering
genetic background of cassava carotenoid inheritance and cassava brown streak disease mode
and site of action.
Research Action Plan
First week: University and laboratory orientations and staff introductions
Second and third weeks: Library and laboratory visit and search for new information related to
carotenoid, physiological postharvest deterioration and cassava brown streak disease.
Fourth and fifth weeks: Laboratory works and validation of available collected data to assess
losses due to physiological postharvest deterioration and cassava brown streak disease
Sixth and seventh weeks: Laboratory works and validation of available collected data to analyze
genetic variability among cassava population
Eighth and ninth weeks: To assess relationship between total carotenoid, physiological
postharvest deterioration and cassava brown streak disease
Tenth and eleven: To conduct overview of findings and their implications for agricultural
productivity and food security in Rwanda and drawing recommendations.
Twelve week: Refining and polishing report
28
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Fellow #5 (Male): Ghana; Genetic improvement of cucurbits
The goal of my research project is to genetically improve and promote cucurbits in the diets of
Ghanaians towards improving upon the food and nutritional security in Ghana. 2.The specific
objectives of this project are to: a) domesticate and aid in the integration of the improved
cucurbits into farming systems of Ghana and other countries in sub Saharan Africa, b)identify
the sex determining factors and study their evolution in Momordica cochinchinensis, Coccinia
grandis and Cucumis heptadactylus using Cucumis melo as a model system, c) create EMS
mutant populations of the tropic research neglected crops such as Cucumis melo, Momordica
cochinchinensis, Coccinia grandis and Cucumis heptadactylus, d) develop phenotyping platforms
and corresponding mutant phenotype databases for Cucumis melo, Momordica cochinchinensis,
Coccinia grandis and Cucumis heptadactylus, e) map and isolate genes and or alleles of genes of
agronomic importance regulating key traits of Cucumis melo, Momordica cochinchinensis,
Coccinia grandis and Cucumis heptadactylus through forward and reverse genetics.
The Agricultural sub-sector of Ghana has been on a steep decline since the discovery of
petroleum products in 2007. Agriculture currently employs about 52 % of Ghana’s labor force
and accounts for 22.6 % of gross domestic product according to the World Bank in the year 2012
and it has decreased to 21.3 % in 2013. Largely, Ghana’s agriculture is characterized by
subsistence farming by families at a very small scale level. The subsistence farmers hardly buy
or even use improved varieties of crops, hence yields are generally low and not comparable to
the yields of crops in developed countries and even Asia where improved varieties are quickly
adopted into farming systems. Cultivation of low yielding varieties and landraces under very low
input, poor pest and disease management and rain-fed conditions by conventional techniques in
Ghana has led to perpetually low agricultural productivity.
Low agricultural productivity and food insecurity is a major challenge in Ghana and the rest of
West and Central Africa (WCA). Food insecurity remains a huge problem because of a number
of constraints resulting in low breeding capacity and low productivity and a convergence of
factors including high population growth rates, deteriorating soils, land grabs, water scarcity and
climate change which are putting pressures on global food supply systems on a scale previously
un-encountered. Adequate nutrition is a prerequisite for healthy growth and development of
children and adults alike, not only with respect to its quantity, but also its quality. Hunger is
therefore, very detrimental to human health and development however, hidden hunger which is
commonly unnoticed until late expression of visible clinical symptoms is characterized by
inadequate supply of micronutrients, with or without adequate energy and protein supply. These
problems are further aggravated by poverty which is prevalent in rural areas where food and
nutritional insecurity is devastating lives. From all indications, it is clear that the food insecurity
situation is a chronic problem that will worsen in the coming decades. Most of the cultivated
land in WCA is planted to low yielding varieties of food crops, and growth in production is still
primarily dependent on area expansion, although many countries are now facing limits on the
availability of cultivable land. An urgent challenge is to increase the productivity per unit area of
the staple crops of West Africa and introduce the cultivation of cash crops to smallholder farm
families in order to promote their socio-economic empowerment. The cultivation of cash crop
29
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
species such as Cucumis melo and other fruit bearing members of the cucurbitaceae family must
be introduced into the local farming systems.
In this initiative, we propose to use Cucumis melo which is a model cucurbit for genetic mapping
and study key alleles regulating traits of agronomic importance such as yield, sex determination
mechanisms and their evolutionary basis, plant height, fruit characteristics, disease resistance and
nutritional value in wild relatives such as Momordica cochinchinensis, Coccinia grandis, and
Cucumis heptadactylus. This study hopes to create mutant populations of the model monoecious
system of C. melo. This mutant population will serve both as a control systems for the study of
the known genes regulating the sex of the plant and also as a source of the discovery of new
alleles in the sex determination pathway.
With the support of this fellowship, I hope to accomplish the following with the help of my
mentor in the United States: a) Not less than five publications expected from this research
project, b) Generation of EMS mutant populations of the research neglected crops such as
Cucumis melo, Momordica cochinchinensis, Coccinia grandis and Cucumis heptadactylus, c)
Establishment of phenotyping platforms and corresponding mutant phenotype databases for
Cucumis melo, Momordica cochinchinensis, Coccinia grandis and Cucumis heptadactylus, d)
Discovery of genes and alleles of genes of agronomic importance regulating key traits of
Cucumis melo, Momordica cochinchinensis, Coccinia grandis and Cucumis heptadactylus, e)
Discovery of sex determining factors in Momordica cochinchinensis, Coccinia grandis, and
Cucumis heptadactylus, and f) Promotion campaigns aimed at introducing these nutritious cash
crops to farmers in Ghana and the sub-region.
Working with my mentor in the US, I will be able to create the mutant populations and also set
up the forward and reverse genetics platforms here in Ghana. The platforms and resources
generated will aid greatly in delivering improved varieties of cucurbits that will be easier to
cultivate with not only increased yields but increased nutrients for rural subsistence thereby food
ensuring and nutritional security.
The problem of food security so far is being tackled by improving and promoting cereals, root
crops and other key food security crops to the neglect of these highly nutritious fruit bearing
cucurbits. This Borlaug Fellowship will greatly contribute to enhanced agricultural productivity,
economic development and food security in Ghana because this innovative approach introduces
cucurbits (which are cash crops and also highly nutritious crops) into the farming systems in
Ghana. These crops offer more than just money and nutritional benefits to farmers, also there are
many health and medicinal benefits that vulnerable rural farmers can derive from the cultivation
of these crops.
Research Action Plan
Week 1-2 Creation of EMS mutant population of the cucurbits EMS mutant populations
Week 3 Germination and viability assays Results of Sensitivity Assays
30
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Week 4 Evaluation and validation of the germination and viability assays Results of Sensitivity
Assays
Week 5 DNA extraction from M2 and DNA quality checks and dilutions DNA of M2 plant
families
Week 6 Pooling and Test runs on NGS sequencing/DNA liCOR Analyzer Results of NGS
sequencing
Week 7 Test runs by NGS sequencing (Forward Genetics) Results of NGS sequencing
Week 8 Test runs by NGS sequencing (Forward Genetics) Results of NGS sequencing
Week 9 Mapping of alleles of agronomic importance via NGS (Forward Genetics) Genes/Alleles
identified
Week 10 Reverse genetic screens by NGS sequencing/DNA liCOR Analyzer Mutants identified
Week 11 Reverse genetic screens by NGS sequencing/DNA liCOR Analyzer Mutants identified
Week 12 Discussions and Write-ups Reports and drafts
31
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Fellow #6 (Male): Ghana; Improved peanut varieties; disease resistance for higher yields
The goal of my research proposal is to screen and initiate selection of available peanut
landraces from Northern Ghana for tolerance to drought and foliar diseases (Early and Late Leaf
Spots), in laboratory trials. My specific research objective is: to evaluate the selected groundnut
landraces for tolerance to drought, and Early and Late Leaf Spot diseases based on Quantitative
Trait Locus (QTL)-Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR) markers in laboratory trials.
Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.), an annual legume crop, is the third major oil seed of the
world, and is produced in tropical and sub-tropical regions.Cultivated peanut is mainly grown in
the semi-arid tropics region by resource-poor farmers. As a result, crop productivity has been
adversely challenged by several abiotic and biotic stresses. In addition, aflatoxin contamination
deteriorates product quality and greatly reduces grain value. The major biotic stress factors
include early leaf spot (Cercospora arachidicola), late leaf spot (Phaeoisariopsis personata), rust
(Puccinia arachidis), mottle virus (Peanut mottle virus), rosette virus (Groundnut rosette virus),
aphids (Aphis craccivora), jassids (Amrasca devastans) and thrips (Frankliniella spp.).
Drought is the major abiotic stress as 70% of the crop is under semi-arid tropics, which is
characterized by low and erratic rainfall. Soil moisture during pod filling stages affects the
aflatoxin accumulation in seeds. Annual estimated losses in groundnut production, equivalent to
over US$520 million are caused by drought.Yield losses due to drought are highly variable in
nature and dependent mainly on the timing, intensity and duration of drought.Genetic
improvement for drought tolerance is crucial in many regions where agriculture depends on
scarce water resources.The finding of genes involved in the genetic tolerance to drought and
their insertion in the genetic background of agronomically preferred varieties could enhance and
or mobilize the yield under drought-prone situations. Therefore, a holistic approach integrating
physiological dissection and molecular marking of the tolerance traits is needed, to understand
the mechanisms underlying tolerance, and to insert these traits into agronomically desirable
material.
Research into transgenic crops may offer new means to improve agriculture, particularly,
in the dry areas, such as the Northern regions of Ghana, as genes specifically involved in the
response to drought have been identified.Although several efforts through conventional breeding
have been made to enhance crop productivity, the results have not been encouraging. However,
the increasing demand for peanut will require higher productivity, and conventional breeding is
inadequate to address the complex genetic behavior of the majority of desired traits. Molecular
markers and a genetic map would be very important for both cultivar improvement and genomic
study, hence, the need for the study.
I hope to tap and utilize the knowledge in the Borlaug Fellowship and research training in
deliberate research programs and activities in solving farmer’s problems; develop new crop
varieties that are stress tolerant but high yielding to boost crop production in the Region and the
nation at large; Help farmers in the region, to have access to improved varieties in order to
augment food productivity and food security, ultimately resulting in poverty alleviation.
32
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
My students and farmers as well as colleagues in the field of agriculture and its value chains
would directly and indirectly benefit from this knowledge and experience both practically and
theoretically through my teaching, research, extension and rural, community service. By meeting
with agricultural practitioners (Researchers, stakeholders etc.) from other parts of the world and
sharing ideas and experiences as it pertains in their countries, would enrich my knowledge and
understanding and therefore open my eyes to new ways of doing things.Leveraging on the vast
knowledge and experience of my U.S. mentor and sharing ideas as they pertain in other parts of
the world (U.S.), my practical skills, knowledge and understanding would be enhanced and
therefore would lead to the successful realization of my research goals. As a developed country,
the tools and equipment needed to enhance my research would be made available by my U.S
mentor and host institution, thereby facilitating the success and accuracy of my research results.
Ghana’s most important economic sector is Agriculture. Farming still remains at
subsistence level which accounts for about 80% of agricultural production. Low agricultural
productivity, malnutrition and poverty affect the majority of rural households in Ghana and this
poses a major threat to food security.Majority of the farmers use their own seeds and other
planting materials on their farms. Only a few have access to improved seeds and other genetic
resources; there is also dependence on importation of seeds and other GMOs. Landraces, as in
peanut, are the main sources of planting materials available to most farmers, particularly in the
Northern part of Ghana, which are the major producers.The development of new plant varieties
and other genetic resources as well as their proper conservation, use and management require
expertise and investment in terms of technology and human resources.
The knowledge to be acquired in a Borlaug Fellowship would go a long way to benefit
Ghana in terms of crop improvement, production and food security through; Incorporation of the
knowledge into national breeding programs, Public awareness on food security and poverty
reduction through production of improved and quality seeds, and other genetic resources,
Improving farmer’s access to quality seeds and other genetic resources and boosting food
production in Ghana, Production of high yielding varieties of crops leading to reductions in the
price of end-products for consumers, Improved quality of crops leading to higher value products
with increased marketability, Improved nutritional content of foods and varieties with improved
disease resistance or stress tolerance.
Research Action Plan
Week 1-3 Activity; Laboratory orientation and Introduction: An overview of Agricultural and
other research facilities, laboratories and centers for plant genetic resource collection,
conservation, management and use: A study tour of such facilities as laboratories and research
centers for peanut genomics; tissue culture labs, Biotechnology, Plant Pathology, Biology and
Food Science laboratories in other faculties and departments.
Field familiarization of peanut research and experimental fields; Field visit to farms of key
peanut growing communities and farms.
The goal is to familiarize myself with education, research activities and programs, particularly
those that are involved in peanut genomics, research and education to assess rate of adoption of
new technologies and breeding programs.
33
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Expected Outcome; To have a first hand information and experience of what pertains both in the
laboratories and on the field.
Week 4-8 Activity; EXPERIMENTAL FIELD OPERATIONS AND EVALUATIONS; A
focused study involving identification, cleaning, labeling, preparation and other planting and
field operations for the peanut landraces. The peanut accessions would be cultivated in pots, by
adopting a Completely Randomized experimental Design (CRD).
Pre-breeding activities and Laboratory trials: Preparatory activities towards DNA Extraction,
Isolation and Quantification, SSR Amplification (PCR procedure) may begin.
The goal is to nurture the potted or planted peanut accessions for up to 2 weeks old to allow for a
successful laboratory work.
Expected Outcome: This is expected to link field agronomic activities to laboratory work.
Week 9-10 DNA EXTRACTION, ISOLATION AND QUANTIFICATION; PCR
PROCEDURE AND SSR AMPLIFICATION AND ANALYSIS
A comprehensive laboratory practical study involving DNA extracted from young and fresh twoweek old peanut seedlings using the relevant molecular techniques. This would be followed by
DNA Isolation and quantification. DNA would be taken through the gel electrophoresis
procedure, visualized under UV light after extraction to confirm its quality.
Further study would involve the assays of the potential peanut accessions and the PCR technique
employed. PCR procedure would adopt available (QTL)-SSR markers (for drought resistance
studies; GM1949, TC7E04, IPAHM103, GM2350, GM2724, TC2D06, GM1418, S11, GM1445,
pPGSseq17F6, pPGPseq2B10, pPGPseq2F5, PM 375) and (QTL)-SSR markers (for foliar
disease studies; Ah2TC7H11, Ah1TC3E02, GM2009, GM1573, GM1009, GM1954 and
GM1536). The reproducibility of the DNA profile would be tested by repeating PCR
amplification. QTL-SSR polymorphisms revealed as the number of fragments per accession
amplified by all the SSR primer pairs would be estimated. Genotyping information obtained
from the PCR analysis would be assessed against the phenotypic characteristics of the peanuts.
The results of the PCR technique would be used to determine phylogenetic relationship, presence
of drought and disease (Early and Late Leaf Spots) tolerant peanut landraces.
The goal will be to develop a sustainable practical and laboratory solution that can be
implemented when i go back to my institution in Ghana. Expected Outcome: Knowledge gained
on laboratory genomic procedures and processes from a developed country that relate to the
research needs of a lower middle income country, Ghana would be gained.
11-12 REPEATING PCR PROCEDURE: The reproducibility of the DNA profile would be
tested by repeating PCR amplification. The goal is to confirm the laboratory results so that they
can be related properly to results that would be obtained in a future field trial back home in
Ghana. The project evaluation and report, which will constitute summary of relevant activities
and schedules, summary of results obtained, successes chalked, challenges encountered, etc. will
be drafted and same submitted to the Borlaug Fellowship office.
FIELD TRIAL PEANUT LANDRACES BACK HOME IN GHANA:
Further comprehensive study involving a field trial of the peanut landraces would be undertaken
back in Ghana, which would be followed by final evaluation and selection of peanut cultivars for
further and future breeding programs.
34
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Fellow #7 (Male): Senegal; Downy mildew disease resistance in millet
Pearl millet is a very important cereal crop in Senegal, where it constitutes a staple food
grain and source of fodder and feed for livestock for many households. It is the most important
cereal crop in terms of harvested area and production and is mainly grown in the central part of
the country. During the rainy season in 2013 the harvested area was 754 274 ha with a
production of 515 365 tons, representing more than 40%of total cereal produced. The national
average yield was around 683 kg/ha during that season, which is below the crop potential of
varieties that have been released in Senegal. Also, during the past 20 years the observation made
on the evolution of the harvested areas and production show a relative oscillation of pearl millet
yield, varying between 464 and 768 kg/ha. This situation is mostly due to unpredictable rainfall,
poor soils, parasitic weeds, inappropriate cultural practices, pests and diseases. Among those
factors that reduces pearl millet production in Senegal, downy mildew is one of the most
important affecting the grain production and quality.
In Senegal, work on pearl millet improvement began in 1961. However, during the last
decade, most of the breeding activities were focused on the flowering time and yield
improvement. Indeed, little investigations have been done on the identification of sources of
resistance to downy mildew disease. Presently, there is no ongoing breeding research activity on
the downy mildew problem which is one of the most important diseases of pearl millet in
Senegal. The discovery of new sources of resistance by exploiting diverse set of inbred lines can
be a good strategy to enhance pearl millet production and improved varieties for their resistance
to downy mildew. However, the efficiency of this strategy can be increased by the use of DNA
markers in the identification of Quantitative Traits Loci (QTLs) for downy mildew resistance
under the senegalease environment. For instance, in 1971 in India, an epidemic of DM on pearl
millet was observed on the first popular hybrid HB 3. The resulting loss in grain production was
estimated at around 3.3 million metric tons. To overcome this problem the ICRISAT’s scientists
and theirs partners was able to identify and map QTLs associated to downy mildew resistance.
These QTLs was transferred into the background of the parental lines of the hybrid HHB 67 for
DM resistance. The transfer of these QTLs using molecular approaches took only three years
while the conventional backcrossing took up to nine years.
The aim of this research work is to identify QTLs associated to downy mildew resistance
in pearl millet which can be validated and introgressed later into popular varieties through
marker assisted backcrossing. The USDA Borlaug Fellowship I’m applying for will certainly
give me the opportunity to analyze the Genotyping by sequencing (GBS) data under USA mentor
supervisor. To achieve this goal, a set of inbred lines have been set up and phenotyped at
ISRA/Bambey. The GBS data coupled to the phenotyping data will be coupled will be used for
QTLs analysis.
Research Action Plan
General discussion with the USA mentor (Week 1)
35
USDA Request for Expressions of Interest
2016 Borlaug Fellowship Program for
EAST AND WEST AFRICA: PLANT HEALTH: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND OTHERS
Initiation to technique of GBS (week 2 to 4)
Data analysis and start writing a draft paper for publication (Week 4 to 10)
Continue finalizing research with mentor (Week 11 & 12)
36