The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) has been at the forefront of empowering African scientists and institutions to tackle arthropod-related challenges for over five decades. This prestigious organization is renowned for its commitment to capacity building, fostering a generation of skilled researchers equipped to address Africa’s agricultural, health, and environmental development needs. If you’re an aspiring African scientist passionate about making a difference in these fields, icipe’s MSc scholarships present a remarkable opportunity to advance your career.
icipe’s Legacy of Capacity Building
Since its establishment, icipe has excelled in building the capacities of individuals and institutions across Africa. Its efforts are deeply rooted in nurturing young researchers and leaders through comprehensive postgraduate and postdoctoral training programs. By integrating capacity building into its core research and development initiatives, icipe provides scholars with hands-on experience in cutting-edge scientific work while simultaneously equipping them with the skills to innovate and create sustainable solutions for local and regional challenges.
The Centre’s African Regional Postgraduate Programme in Insect Science (ARPPIS), Dissertation Research Internship Programme (DRIP), and Postdoctoral Fellowship (PDF) exemplify icipe’s holistic approach to developing a critical mass of expertise. These initiatives align with the principles of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) and the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), emphasizing the importance of local innovation systems. Even beyond formal training, icipe continues to engage with its alumni, fostering collaborative networks that enhance both individual and institutional capacity.
Research and Innovation Opportunities for MSc Scholars
icipe’s commitment to research excellence extends to its scholarship programs, which focus on innovative projects addressing key challenges in agriculture, health, and sustainable development. These scholarships provide an immersive experience where scholars work on groundbreaking research topics, with a particular focus on insect science and its applications in aquaculture. For the upcoming intake, the following MSc opportunities are available:
- Evaluating Vitamin E & C Requirements for Growth and Immune Performance in Nile Tilapia
Scholars will explore how supplementing tilapia diets with vitamins E and C affects their growth, hematological responses, and immune system performance when black soldier fly larvae meal is used as a partial replacement.
Get details here. - Vitamin E & C Requirements for African Catfish Growth and Health
This project investigates the impact of vitamin supplementation on the growth and immune performance of African catfish strains fed on diets partially replaced with black soldier fly larvae meal.
Get details here. - Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Local and Improved Nile Tilapia Strains
Researchers will assess the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on the growth and nutrient utilization of Nile tilapia strains, particularly when incorporating black soldier fly larvae diets.
Get details here. - Impact of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on African Catfish Growth and Nutrition
This study examines how omega-3 supplementation enhances growth and nutrient absorption in improved African catfish strains fed on black soldier fly larvae-based diets.
Get details here. - Optimizing Growth and Nutritional Quality through Omega-6 Supplementation
This research focuses on improving African catfish strains’ growth and nutritional quality using omega-6 fatty acid supplementation in black soldier fly-based aquafeed.
Get details here.
Application Details
The closing date for all MSc scholarship applications is January 30, 2025. Interested applicants must submit their applications through the official icipe scholarship portal. Candidates are encouraged to carefully review the specific requirements for their chosen research project and provide all necessary documentation.
Official scholarship portal.
Why Choose icipe?
As a global leader in insect science, icipe offers more than just academic training. Scholars gain access to a dynamic and supportive environment where they can collaborate with leading experts in their field. Moreover, icipe’s partnerships with regional and international institutions provide unparalleled opportunities for networking and career growth. By joining icipe, scholars become part of a transformative journey, contributing to impactful solutions that address Africa’s unique challenges.
If you’re ready to make a meaningful contribution to scientific research and innovation, seize this opportunity to be part of icipe’s legacy of excellence. Apply now and take the first step toward becoming a leader in arthropod-related sciences and sustainable development.