Fully Funded PHD Scholarship: An investigation into reducing chemical N inputs and the environmental footprint of pasture based sheep production systems

PhD Fully Funded PHD Scholarship: An investigation into reducing chemical N inputs and the environmental footprint of pasture based sheep production systems

Deadline: 24 March 2023

I. Background
Ireland’s competitive advantage in sheep meat production is based on the efficient production and utilization of pasture. Challenges facing the agricultural sector are based on maintaining or improving current levels of production to maintain an economically viable sector but with an enhanced focus on environmental sustainability and a reduced dependence on chemical nitrogen use.

A key focus of the DAFM Food Vision 2030 strategy is to investigate if Grass, legumes and herbs can deliver required sward yields and longevity at lower levels of nitrogen application. The use of forage legumes and herbs in combination with perennial
ryegrass warrants further investigation to determine their suitability relative to the traditional perennial ryegrass system.

This project proposes to evaluate the effects of both high and low chemical nitrogen input pasture based sheep production systems across varying sward types namely:

i) Perennial ryegrass,

ii) Perennial ryegrass plus white clover and

iii) Perennial ryegrass, white clover and plantain-based swards.

Swards will be assessed in terms of their effect on animal performance and output; their physical production, utilisation and quality and their effect on the environmental impact of sheep pasture based systems including nitrate losses and methane emissions.

The successful candidate will join a team with a track record of success in this research
topic, and have access to the required research infrastructure and expertise. There will be opportunities throughout the programme for professional development training, conference attendance and international travel to expand your research interest

II. Requirements

  • The PhD project will involve data collection, data collation and statistical analysis, reporting and publishing findings at (inter)national conferences and industry meetings.
  • Applications are invited from graduates holding or expecting an honours degree in Agricultural Science or a related discipline.
  • The successful candidate should be highly self-motivated and be prepared for laboratory work and extended periods of field work.
  • For applicants whose first language is not English, the English language requirements for the position can be accessed HERE

III. Award

  • The PhD Scholarship is a joint research project between Teagasc and University College Dublin.
  • The student will be based primarily at Teagasc Athenry working under the supervision of Dr. Philip Creighton (Teagasc) and with Prof Tommy Boland (UCD).
  • This Walsh Scholarship provides an annual stipend of €24,000 whichincludes University fees of up to a maximum of €6,000 per annum and is tenable for 4 years

IV. How To Apply?

  • To apply, please submit an electronic copy of Curriculum Vitae and a letter of interest simultaneously to: Dr Philip Creighton ([email protected] ) and
    Prof Tommy Boland ([email protected] )
  • For Further information, please contact:
  1. Dr Philip Creighton, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc Athenry Phone: +353(0)91 845862 email: [email protected]

Prof Tommy Boland, School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin Phone: +353(0)1 7167144 email: [email protected]

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