How can you overcome food science research challenges in developing countries?

1 Identify local needs and priorities

Before you start your research project, you need to understand the local context, needs, and priorities of the communities and stakeholders you are working with. This will help you design your research questions, objectives, methods, and outcomes in a relevant and feasible way. You can use various tools and approaches, such as participatory methods, surveys, interviews, focus groups, literature reviews, and stakeholder analysis, to assess the local food systems, problems, opportunities, and expectations.

2 Seek funding and partnership opportunities

Funding is often a major challenge for food science research in developing countries, as there may be limited or no local sources of support. Therefore, you need to seek external funding and partnership opportunities that can help you secure the resources and expertise you need for your research. You can look for international donors, agencies, foundations, networks, and programs that offer grants, fellowships, scholarships, or collaborations for food science research in developing countries. You can also leverage your existing contacts, networks, and affiliations to find potential partners and sponsors.

3 Adapt to the available resources and conditions

Another challenge for food science research in developing countries is the lack of adequate infrastructure, equipment, and facilities. This can affect the quality, reliability, and validity of your data and results. Therefore, you need to adapt to the available resources and conditions and use alternative or innovative methods and techniques that can suit your research context. For example, you can use low-cost, portable, or mobile devices and tools, such as smartphones, sensors, or kits, that can perform various functions, such as data collection, analysis, or communication. You can also use local or indigenous materials, ingredients, or methods that can enhance your research outcomes.

4 Build local capacity and engagement

Human resources are another key factor for food science research in developing countries, as there may be a shortage of skilled, trained, or qualified researchers, technicians, or assistants. Therefore, you need to build local capacity and engagement and involve the local people in your research process. You can do this by providing training, mentoring, or coaching to the local staff, students, or volunteers who can assist you with your research tasks. You can also engage the local communities, farmers, producers, consumers, or policymakers who can provide valuable insights, feedback, or support for your research.

5 Share and disseminate your findings and impacts

Finally, you need to share and disseminate your findings and impacts with the relevant audiences and stakeholders who can benefit from your research. This will help you increase the visibility, credibility, and applicability of your research and contribute to the advancement of food science knowledge and practice in developing countries. You can use various channels and formats, such as publications, presentations, reports, posters, podcasts, videos, or blogs, to communicate your research results, implications, and recommendations. You can also use social media, online platforms, or networks to reach a wider and diverse audience and create awareness, dialogue, or action around your research topic.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?