At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage in cutting-edge research on sustainable agriculture and crop innovation.
- Company: University of Dundee, collaborating with top UK institutions and industry partners.
- Benefits: Full tuition fees, tax-free stipend, research grant, and hands-on training.
- Other info: Opportunities for industrial placements and project presentations to stakeholders.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable food systems while gaining valuable interdisciplinary experience.
- Qualifications: Relevant undergraduate or master’s degree in agricultural science or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
The CIC-START PhD Programme offers a unique interdisciplinary doctoral training experience designed to address key challenges in sustainable agriculture and crop innovation. Funded through a BBSRC Industrial Doctoral Landscape Award, the programme brings together more than 20 academic and industry partners from the barley, potato, and cereals sectors, providing a rich environment for research that directly supports resilient, sustainable crop production and agri-food systems.
Over four years, students will engage with cutting‑edge research projects embedded within a collaborative training community that bridges academia and industry, structured around real‑world agricultural needs. Every studentship includes full tuition fees, a UKRI‑standard stipend, and a research grant to support project costs, alongside opportunities for industrial placements and structured skills training.
The programme encompasses a diverse set of PhD project themes aligned to three strategic areas:
- Sustainable agricultural systems (including precision phenotyping, breeding, AI and big data applications)
- Crop and soil health (with emphasis on pest management and root‑soil interactions)
- Waste and greenhouse gas reduction (addressing resource efficiency and post‑harvest losses)
Students can select from projects such as developing perennial grain crops for regenerative agriculture, exploring legacy soil phosphorus to enhance barley production, advancing high‑throughput phenotyping for potato quality traits, investigating plant‑virus‑vector interactions for disease control, and unlocking genetic recombination to accelerate barley breeding innovations. Each project offers hands‑on training, interdisciplinary research engagement, and opportunities to present findings to both academic and industrial stakeholders.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must hold (or expect to achieve) a relevant undergraduate or master’s degree appropriate for PhD study. Selection considers academic merit and research potential in fields related to agricultural science, crop biology, soil science, plant physiology, genetics, or closely related disciplines. Students can express preferences for up to three projects in their application.
Required Expertise, Skills
Successful applicants will benefit from backgrounds in one or more of the following areas: plant science, soil biogeochemistry, plant physiology, crop genetics, agroecology, entomology, plant-microbe interactions, high‑throughput phenotyping, statistical analysis, experimental design, or related disciplines. Strong analytical skills, curiosity for interdisciplinary research, and an enthusiasm for working across academic and industrial environments will support success in the programme.
Salary Details
Each studentship covers full tuition fees and provides an annual tax‑free stipend at the UKRI rate. A dedicated research grant is also provided to support project work and training activities throughout the four‑year programme.
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 3 April 2026 for projects beginning in autumn 2026.
PhD Studentships – CIC-START PhD Programme in Dundee employer: RFCSR
At King’s College London, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our interdisciplinary approach not only encourages professional growth through diverse research opportunities but also allows you to make a meaningful impact in the fields of engineering and biomedical research. Located in the vibrant city of London, our institution offers a dynamic environment where creativity thrives and employees are supported in their career development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentships – CIC-START PhD Programme in Dundee
✨Get Hands-On Experience
Internships in agriculture are often about getting your hands dirty, so don’t shy away from volunteer opportunities on farms or in community gardens. Reach out to local agricultural colleges or co-ops – they might have leads on internships or practical projects that can bolster your experience.
✨Tap into Agritech Communities
Join online forums and local meetups focused on agritech. These communities are buzzing with opportunities and can put you in touch with potential gigs. Platforms like AgFunder or even specific Facebook groups are perfect for networking and hearing about internships that aren't widely advertised.
✨Leverage University Career Resources
If you're a student, don’t forget to use your uni’s career services. They often host job fairs specifically for agriculture roles where companies come looking for interns. Sign up for alerts from these events so you can be the first to apply!
✨Show Off Your Passion
Make sure to showcase your enthusiasm for agriculture. Whether it’s a personal blog, a portfolio of projects, or a killer LinkedIn profile, let your passion shine through. And remember to apply through our website —RFCSR loves to see candidates who go the extra mile!
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentships – CIC-START PhD Programme in Dundee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Agriculture:Don't hesitate to let your enthusiasm for agriculture shine through in your application. Share any relevant coursework or projects you've worked on that demonstrate your interest, like crop science or environmental sustainability initiatives. This helps us see your motivation and aligns with our values at RFCSR.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Even if you don't have direct farming experience, anything related—like working on a farm, volunteering for community gardens, or even coursework—can strengthen your application. These experiences show us your willingness to get your hands dirty and your commitment to learning, which is crucial for an internship.
Tailor Your CV to the Field:When crafting your CV, focus on skills and experiences relevant to agriculture. Mention any technical skills, like familiarity with agricultural technology or data analysis. We love seeing candidates who can bridge the gap between tradition and innovation in the industry.
Craft a Personalised Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell a story about why you want to intern in agriculture, particularly at RFCSR. Discuss what you hope to learn and how you can contribute to our projects. This personalised approach will set you apart from other applicants.
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Brush Up on Your Agricultural Knowledge
As we're diving into the agricultural sector, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with the latest trends, technologies, and practices in farming. Be ready to discuss precision agriculture, sustainable practices, or any recent innovations you've read about, as this shows genuine interest and initiative!
✨Show Off Your Hands-On Experience
Internships are all about learning, but don’t shy away from mentioning any hands-on experience you’ve had—be it working on a farm, volunteering with agricultural organisations, or even relevant coursework. This is your chance to highlight your practical skills and willingness to get your hands dirty!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face questions that explore how you’d handle real-life agricultural scenarios. The interviewer might ask about pest management, crop rotation strategies, or how to respond to unfavourable weather conditions. Think through some examples where you could demonstrate your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
✨Express Your Learning Goals
Since this is an internship, make it clear that you’re eager to learn and grow in the role. Share what specific skills or knowledge you’re aiming to gain during this internship at RFCSR. This demonstrates that you’re not just there to clock in hours but genuinely invested in your professional development.
