Development of an optimality-based model to investigate abiotic limitations on global yield gaps

This Master 2 internship is hosted by the ISPA unit at INRAE Bordeaux within the AGROFOR team, focusing on multi-scale agronomy and forestry modeling. The successful candidate will work on developing the GPCROP spatial explicit model to simulate nitrogen (N) limitation alongside phosphorus (P) in agricultural systems. The project involves implementing soil N dynamics, plant root uptake, and carbon-nitrogen allocation using a parsimonious-parameter approach. Expected work includes evaluating model outputs against long-term field trials in France and international datasets to better understand global yield gaps. The internship offers an opportunity to transition into a prospective PhD position focusing on comprehensive crop resource limitations.

• Develop and expand the GPCROP spatial explicit model to incorporate nitrogen limitation dynamics.
• Implement mechanisms for soil nitrogen dynamics, root nitrogen uptake, and plant organ allocation.
• Evaluate model simulation results against long-term field trial data gathered in France and international networks.
• Analyze carbon and nitrogen trade-offs in response to nutrient limitations across different environments.
• Perform global-scale simulations to estimate nitrogen, phosphorus, and combined limitations on potential crop yields under irrigated conditions.