The African-German Centre for Sustainable and Resilient Food Systems and Applied Agricultural and Food Data Science (UKUDLA) is offering doctoral scholarships for German-linked candidates to pursue PhD research in southern Africa. The programme is funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space, Germany. Successful candidates will enroll at the University of Hohenheim and conduct full-time doctoral research at partner institutions in South Africa or Malawi, with up to 12 months possible at Hohenheim University.

Research topics span sustainable agriculture, livestock health, nutrition programmes, data-driven analysis, climate-resilient cropping systems, biochar and soil research, water management, AI, drones, remote sensing, wildlife-livestock interactions, commodity market dynamics, and therapeutic foods. The scholarship aims to develop expertise in food systems and applied data science, encouraging interdisciplinary approaches.

Applicants must hold a master's degree in a relevant discipline with above average results, be German passport holders or have unlimited residence permit for Germany, and demonstrate good English language skills. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, project proposal, and academic reference. The scholarship provides EUR 1,800/month for up to 36 months (with possible extension), reduced to EUR 1,300/month during time in Germany, plus mobility and research funds. Educational modules, workshops, and summer schools are integral to the programme.

Applications are open until 6 February 2026. Candidates should visit the UKUDLA website to review topics and submit their application online. The programme supports future leaders in agri-food systems and data science, contributing to research and education in Sub-Saharan Africa.