Bowie State University Receives $541,075 NSF Grant to Expand Global Undergraduate Food Security Research

Bowie State University has received a $541,075 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to continue and expand an international undergraduate research program that prepares the next generation of scientists to address global challenges in food security and sustainable agriculture through immersive research experiences in Kenya. The award supports the project, "Training Globally Engaged Undergraduates in Food Security Research at Egerton University in Kenya: Underutilized Food Crops/Plants, the Key to Feeding the Future," led by Dr. Anne Osano, professor of biology in Bowie State University's Department of Natural Sciences. The grant period runs from June 15, 2026, through Nov. 30, 2028.

"This award enables us to continue providing transformative international research experiences that prepare students to become globally engaged scientists and problem-solvers," said Osano, principal investigator of the project. "By studying underutilized food crops and plants that have the potential to strengthen food security and sustainable agriculture, our students contribute to research addressing one of the world's most urgent challenges while gaining invaluable scientific, professional and cross-cultural experience."

Funded through the NSF's Research Experiences for Undergraduates program, the initiative competitively recruits undergraduate students from Bowie State University and colleges and universities across the United States. Participants travel to Egerton University in Kenya, where they conduct research on underutilized food crops with the potential to improve food security, agricultural sustainability and climate resilience. The research experience combines laboratory work, field research and cultural immersion.

As part of the program, students also spend two weeks conducting research at Kenya's premier research institutions: the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology and the International Livestock Research Institute. Working alongside internationally recognized scientists, they receive hands-on training using state-of-the-art scientific instrumentation and advanced laboratory technologies that enhance their research skills and provide exposure to world-class research facilities.

Students investigate the genetic, physiological and ecological mechanisms that influence crop performance in changing environments while developing expertise in literature review, experimental design, laboratory and field techniques, data collection, statistical analysis and scientific communication. The program prepares participants for graduate study and careers in agriculture, biology and other science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.

Beyond the laboratory, participants engage in cultural and community experiences that broaden their global perspectives and deepen their understanding of the social, economic and environmental dimensions of food security. These immersive experiences help prepare students to collaborate across cultures and contribute to scientific solutions for global challenges.

The renewed NSF award will support 24 undergraduate students over the life of the grant, providing funding for student stipends, international travel and research-related expenses.

The collaboration between Bowie State University and Egerton University has emerged as a strong example of international undergraduate research, providing students with opportunities to apply scientific knowledge to real-world challenges while contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable food production and global food security.

The NSF award reinforces Bowie State University's commitment to expanding undergraduate research opportunities, strengthening international partnerships and preparing the next generation of scientists to address complex global challenges through research, innovation and collaboration.

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About Bowie State University
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. Bowie State has earned the 'Research College and University' designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT: Stacie Burgess, [email protected], 301-860-4311