Fully Funded PhD and Masters Opportunities in Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences (Walsh Scholars Programme, Ireland) Teagasc (Agriculture and Food Development Authority) in Ireland

The Teagasc Walsh Scholars Programme is now accepting applications for its 2026 intake of fully funded PhD and Masters research opportunities. This prestigious programme is designed for graduates passionate about advancing knowledge in agriculture, food, environment, climate, rural development, and related disciplines. Scholars will be based at Teagasc’s national research centres and partner universities in Ireland, working on multidisciplinary projects with significant national and international impact.

Research topics for the 2026 intake include dairy herd lameness control, herbal-infused beverage innovation, functional foods and medicinal plants value chains, agroecological nitrogen reduction strategies, spring barley yield constraints, mushroom farm microbial interactions, soil carbon and greenhouse gas fluxes, climate adaptation behaviour in agriculture, real-time beef quality assurance, pasture-based dairy grazing strategies, farmer health engagement, dairy processing optimisation, sustainable sheep production, carbon tracing in Irish soils, whiskey authentication, clover nitrogen fixation, beef cattle efficiency, agricultural land-use optimisation, and labour use in beef farming, among others.

Successful applicants will benefit from supervision by leading researchers, access to state-of-the-art research facilities, opportunities for international collaboration, travel and conferences, and comprehensive training in research, communication, leadership, and problem-solving. The programme fosters a supportive, cohort-based research community, providing an excellent environment for academic and professional development.

Applicants must have a strong academic background in a relevant field such as agriculture, food science, environmental science, or biology. English language proficiency is required for non-native speakers. Each project may have specific requirements, so candidates should review individual project adverts for detailed eligibility criteria.

All positions are fully funded, covering tuition fees and providing a stipend, with additional support for research expenses and professional development. The application process opens on 10 February 2026, with a final deadline of 18 March 2026. Interested candidates should browse available opportunities, review project and supervision details, and apply via the central Walsh Scholarships application form on the Teagasc website.

For more information and to view current opportunities, visit the official Teagasc Walsh Scholars Programme page.