CREF University Scholarships

Are you conducting research in composting or compost use? The CREF is proud to offer its annual $4,000 CREF University Scholarship to support students advancing knowledge in compost science and application.

This scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to students engaged in compost research while fostering future careers in the composting industry

Who Can Apply?

The scholarship is available to undergraduate, Master’s, and Ph.D. students enrolled at a U.S. college or university with ongoing research in composting and its applications.

Scholarship Details

• $4,000 award to assist with your compost research project
• An invitation to present your research at the U.S. Composting Council annual conference during a CREF research session
  • Travel expenses and conference registration are covered in addition to the scholarship.

Research Focus Areas

Eligible research projects must be active during the scholarship term and focus on composting and compost use. Ideal topics include:

• Enhancing drought tolerance
• Increasing soil nutrient content
• Reducing erosion and water pollution
• Boosting carbon storage in soils to combat climate change

Application Process

Before applying, carefully review the Scholarship Requirements. Incomplete applications or missing required attachments will not be accepted.

Application Deadline: April 14, 2025

Apply today and contribute to the future of compost science.

APPLY HERE

Kefang Nie is a Ph.D. student in the Department of Population Health and Reproduction at the University of California, Davis. Her research project will investigate the microbial contamination and dynamics in commercial composting facilities and under documented home and urban composting units across California. In her project, fecal coliform concentration and presence of Salmonella spp. in finished compost will serve as direct indicators of the operation in these composting facilities. Furthermore, the project will look to see if the presence of other foodborne pathogens in composting facilities expands understanding of microbial dynamics within these composting facilities. This knowledge will not only inform stakeholders of compost distribution regarding of regions, feedstocks, processing approaches, and other various factors, but also provide valuable insights into the potential risks associated with diverse composting practices.

 

Swikar Karki is a Ph.D. student in Plant Science at the University of Maine, working with the Plant Physiology Lab and the Biomass Energy Lab. The topic of his research project is Investigating the Efficacy of Compost and Biochar for Sustainable Wild Blueberry Cultivation His research will focus on the impact of compost and biochar applications in wild blueberries in Maine. The study aims to understand how the combination of compost and biochar can improve soil properties, plant health, and crop productivity under drought conditions. Two representative wild blueberry farms are part of the study. Using a randomized complete block design, the study will include treatments such as biochar, biochar-compost mixtures, and compost. Soil samples will be analyzed for pH, nutrient content, organic matter, and soil fungal diversity. Additionally, crop physiological performance including water use, photosynthesis, and yield will be assessed. The study hypothesizes that the combination of compost and biochar enhances soil health, nutrient availability, and fungal activity, supporting plant health and increasing yield stability. This research aims to alleviate the impact of drought on wild blueberry production by addressing soil health and enhancing moisture retention. Expected outcomes include optimized soil health, increased crop growth, and stable yields, promoting sustainable agricultural practices. These findings will offer practical recommendations for wild blueberry growers, demonstrating the effectiveness of innovative soil management practices.