Assessing Soil with Gamma-Ray Spectrometry and Digital Technology

This project will standardize and scale gamma-ray spectrometry (GRS), a nuclear technique that measures gamma rays emitted by radionuclides naturally present in soil, such as potassium, uranium and thorium, to deliver high-resolution, scalable assessments of soil properties. It aims to enhance GRS technologies, integrated with digital and remote sensing tools, for precise soil property assessment and monitoring—including texture, total carbon, total nitrogen and moisture.

By capturing gamma rays on stationary, mobile or drone platforms, GRS reveals soil differences across agricultural fields at a high level of detail without disturbing the land. When combined with satellite imagery and advanced analytics, this approach supports targeted interventions that improve resource efficiency and preserve soil health. By integrating GRS outputs with digital tools, the project will equip decision makers with high-resolution soil maps to guide sustainable land and water use.

“Informed soil management starts with accurate data. This coordinated research project will provide practical protocols and tools to generate actionable soil information from nuclear-based assessments, enabling farmers and policymakers to make informed decisions,” said Gerd Dercon, head of the IAEA Soil & Water Management & Crop Nutrition Laboratory.

Research institutions interested in joining the CRP must submit their Proposal for Research Contract or Agreement via email, no later than 3 August 2025, to the IAEA’s Research Contracts Administration Section, using the appropriate template on the CRA web site. The IAEA is committed to gender equality and to promoting a diverse workforce. Applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries are strongly encouraged.

For further information related to this CRP, potential applicants should use the contact form on the CRP page.