Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Assessment of Low Emission Dairy Systems on Zero Zero Project

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time funded PhD scholarships starting in March 2025 affiliated to the College of Science & Engineering / School of Biological & Chemical Sciences / Ryan Institute at the University of Galway.

University of Galway

Located in the vibrant cultural city of Galway in the west of Ireland, the University of Galway has a distinguished reputation for teaching and research excellence

For information on moving to Ireland please see www.euraxess.ie

Detailed Project Description Agriculture in Ireland is an important source of greenhouse gas (GHG) and ammonia emissions. The sector is obligated to achieve a 25% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030, and to reduce ammonia emissions. Dairy farming accounts for around 15% of national GHG emissions, but makes an important contribution to economic growth, particularly in rural areas. Future growth is challenged by the need to meet national emissions reduction targets. We have designed and tested a system of milk production that substantially lowers the GHG and ammonia footprints of milk production, whilst maintaining productivity and profitability. The objective of this scholarship is to investigate the implementation of this low-emission system on commercial dairy farms in terms of environmental footprints and farm profitability. The student will have access to state-of-the-art models and a unique data set on real-world performance of innovative low-emission practices. This work will support development of a blueprint for low-emission pasture-based dairy systems that will deliver impact across the commercial dairy production and climate policy. 

The successful candidate should be highly self-motivated and be prepared for laboratory work, life cycle assessment (LCA) and economic evaluation of farm data using MS Excel and LCA software, and fieldwork with modern analytical equipment. Fluent English language skills and a full EU driving licence are essential.

Living allowance (Stipend): €25,000 per annum, [tax-exempt scholarship award]

University fees: €6000 per annum

Start date: 01/03/2025 (or as soon as possible thereafter)

Academic Entry Requirements: First or 2.1 Honours) or M.Sc. in an appropriate discipline (Agricultural Science, Environmental Science, Earth Sciences, etc.).

To Apply for the Scholarship: email james.humphreys@teagasc.ie

Contact Name: Dr David Styles, University of Galway 

Contact Email: David.styles@universityofgalway.ie

Application Deadline: 02 /02 /2025 and time [23:59] (Irish time 24hr format)

Primary Supervisor name: David Styles