The U.U. Uspanov Kazakh Research Institute of Soil Science and Agrochemistry (KRISSA), established in 1945 and based in Almaty, is Kazakhstan’s institution in soil science and agrochemistry. KRISSA’s research focuses on soil genesis, fertility regeneration, and the development of cutting-edge technologies to improve agricultural productivity. Among its notable achievements are innovative methods for reclaiming saline-alkaline soils and increasing crop yields through the use of bioorganic and biomineral fertilisers.
As a national leader in fundamental and applied research, KRISSA specialises in soil biology, geography, and agricultural chemistry. The institute has comprehensive laboratory infrastructure, including facilities for soil physico-chemical analysis (AAS, CHNS analysers, ion chromatography, and more), soil texture analysis, and advanced microscopy (AMIL, MBI, MBS). It also maintains phytosanitary labs (with autoclaves and related equipment) and greenhouses for controlled environment research.
KRISSA oversees permanent research plots across three distinct forest types: Picea-herb forests, aspen and birch herb forests, and wild apple tree herb forests, providing a valuable resource for long-term ecological and agricultural studies.