MSc Graduate Fellowship: Dairy Profitability Assessment in Kenya at International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)

The proposed study involves preparation of study proposal and application of the app to collect dairy enterprise data that the fellow will use to estimate smallholder dairy farm profitability. The study will also identify key cost drivers in smallholder dairy enterprises and determinants of dairy enterprise profitability. Specifically, the selected fellow will:

• Undertake dry runs of the dairy profitability simulator to understand the functionality of the tool and consolidate feedback for further engagement with the app developers.
• Contribute to development of the database for storing the data captured through the app.
• Prepare their MSc theses proposal clearly outlining research questions and the associated analytical methods to be applied and support the field piloting of the dairy profitability simulator.
• Process and clean data and undertake relevant analysis answering specific research questions as outlined in their proposal and agreed with the project team.
• Develop their MSc thesis and present to ILRI research teams and the University.
• Work with the SAPLING Kenya research team to prepare manuscripts and submit to peer-reviewed journals.

Minimum requirements for the ideal candidate

• Currently pursuing an MSc in Agricultural and Applied Economics or related fields.
• Have completed their course work and are ready to begin the research component of their study.
• Have working knowledge of MS Office and digital data capture tools such as ODK, survey CTO, etc.
• Have good understanding of data handling techniques and quantitative/econometric analytical skills especially involving use of statistical packages such as STATA.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Previous experience in household data collection especially using digital tools is an added advantage.
• Ability to work as part of a team.