VistaMilk

Technological University Dublin is advertising a fully funded PhD scholarship in Generative AI for Pasture Management in Grass-Based Dairy Farming. The project is based in the Centre for Sustainable Digital Technologies (CSDT) and is co-located between TU Dublin and Teagasc Moorepark research facilities.

This PhD is funded by the VistaMilk Research Ireland Centre and focuses on how generative AI can support Irish farmers by producing pasture information that is useful, trustworthy, and practical for everyday farm decision-making. The research includes understanding farmer preferences for pasture information, evaluating whether modern GenAI models can generate relevant pasture insights from images captured by smartphones, field cameras, and drones, and studying how farmers interpret and use AI-generated advice in practice.

Research keywords: generative AI, pasture management, grass-based dairy farming, agricultural modelling, environmental sustainability, Python, data analysis, quantitative methods, computer science.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should ideally hold a minimum 2.1 Honours degree or an MSc in computer science, data science, or a related discipline. Strong interest in generative AI, sustainability, or agricultural modelling is preferred, together with experience in Python programming, data analysis, and quantitative methods. Applicants should also be able to work independently and collaboratively, communicate well, and meet TU Dublin postgraduate entry requirements, including English language requirements where applicable.

Funding: the scholarship runs for four years and offers an annual stipend of €25,000 plus an annual contribution fee.

Application process: prepare a single PDF with your CV, a brief letter of interest, and the names and email addresses of two academic referees. Email it to [email protected] and [email protected] with the subject line “PhD – GenAIpasture”.

Deadline: Tuesday, 2 June 2026. The scholarship is scheduled to start in September 2026.