At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop innovative telemetric technology for sustainable grain storage and food safety.
- Company: Join Crover Ltd, a pioneering tech company in Edinburgh focused on revolutionary grain monitoring.
- Benefits: Gain a PhD with hands-on research experience and contribute to climate change solutions.
- Other info: Collaborative research environment with opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and growth.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of agri-tech, making a real impact on food safety and sustainability.
- Qualifications: Passion for applied mycology, data science, and environmental sustainability.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
Imagine you had the opportunity to work on something as exciting as the development of the first aerial drone before drones were a thing! At Crover Ltd we are a pioneering, multi-award-winning company based in central Edinburgh, Scotland and we have developed the first ever 'below-ground' robotic device (a 'CROVER') able to move through dense dry granular media (e.g. sand, grains, powders) at fully-buried depths.
Crover's first product is a small robotic device for the monitoring of cereal grains stored in bulk (e.g. in sheds or grain bins), allowing grain storage operators to identify critical conditions like hotspots early and maintain the quality of the grains through proactive management.
PhD Project Title: Implementation of innovative telemetric technology towards carbon-neutral and safe grain storage
The project focuses on environmental sustainability in grain storage, developing telemetric robotic sensing and predictive modelling to control mycotoxin (Ochratoxin A) risk while reducing postharvest drying energy demand. Combining applied mycology, food safety modelling, precision agriculture and Net Zero energy systems, the research will deliver energy-efficient, data-driven grain storage solutions for the UK agri-food sector.
This interdisciplinary project sits at the intersection of bioengineering, heat and mass transfer, predictive modelling, postharvest systems engineering and applied microbiology. It addresses the urgent need for energy-efficient grain storage solutions in the context of climate change and Net Zero commitments. By integrating thermal dynamics, moisture migration modelling and real-time telemetric sensing, the research responds constructively to the dual challenge of maintaining food safety while reducing the carbon footprint of postharvest cereal management across the UK supply chain.
The project aims to collaboratively design and validate an integrated engineering and biological modelling framework for carbon-efficient grain storage. It will combine heat and moisture transfer modelling, stochastic prediction of fungal growth and Ochratoxin A risk, and optimisation of in situ robotic sensing technology. Through this systems-based approach, the research will generate balanced, data-informed strategies that enable proportionate ventilation, cooling and drying decisions, reducing unnecessary energy use while safeguarding grain safety.
Start: 28 September 2026
Duration: 3.5 years
Further details, as well as information on how to apply can be found at: Cranfield University PhD Opportunity
For further information on the role, please contact Dr Carol Verheecke-Vaessen of Cranfield University.
Please apply directly through Cranfield University at: Cranfield University Application (using the Apply Now button).
PhD: Telemetric Grain Sensing for Net-Zero Storage in Bedford employer: Crover Ltd
At Crover Ltd, we pride ourselves on being a pioneering force in the agri-tech sector, offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of innovation in grain storage technology. Our central Edinburgh location fosters a collaborative and dynamic work culture, where employees are encouraged to grow through interdisciplinary research and development initiatives. With a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and a focus on employee development, we provide a rewarding environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the field of food safety and climate change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD: Telemetric Grain Sensing for Net-Zero Storage in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend relevant events, and connect with researchers at Cranfield University. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for sustainability and innovation during interviews. Talk about how your background in applied mycology or data science aligns with Crover's mission. We want to see your enthusiasm for making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical questions by brushing up on your knowledge of telemetric technology and grain storage systems. We love candidates who can demonstrate their expertise and think critically about real-world applications.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for candidates who are proactive and eager to join our innovative team.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD: Telemetric Grain Sensing for Net-Zero Storage in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know the Project:Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand the PhD project. Dive into the details about telemetric technology and grain storage. This will help us see your genuine interest and how you can contribute!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure your application reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the project. Highlight any relevant research or technical skills in applied mycology, data science, or engineering. We want to see how you fit into our vision!
Show Your Passion for Sustainability:Since this project is all about environmental sustainability, don’t forget to express your passion for this area. Share any past experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment to reducing carbon footprints and promoting safe food practices.
Apply Through Our Website:Finally, make sure to apply directly through the Cranfield University website using the 'Apply Now' button. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re following the right process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Crover Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you dive deep into the project details. Understand the intersection of applied mycology, data science, and telemetric technology. Being able to discuss how these elements contribute to carbon-neutral grain storage will impress your interviewers.
✨Show Your Passion for Sustainability
This role is all about environmental sustainability. Be prepared to share your thoughts on climate change and how innovative technologies can help. Showing genuine enthusiasm for the agri-food sector and its challenges will resonate well with the team.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the project, the team, and the future of grain storage technology. This shows that you're not just interested in the position but also in contributing to the company's mission.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Think about any past projects or experiences that relate to bioengineering, predictive modelling, or robotics. Be ready to discuss how your background can bring value to the PhD project and the innovative work at Crover Ltd.
