Walsh Scholars Programme

PhD opportunity in dairy science, food science, nutrition, and chemistry focused on the effects of grass-based diets on milk fat composition, functionality, and the quality of Irish butter.

This project is part of the VistaMilk Research Ireland Centre and is primarily based at Teagasc Moorepark, Fermoy, in collaboration with the School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University College Cork. The research examines how varying levels of concentrate in dairy cow diets influence butter quality, fatty acid composition, flavour profile, and key physicochemical properties such as crystallinity, melting behaviour, hardness, and rheology.

The successful candidate will work within a multidisciplinary team and be supervised by Dr Sean Hogan (Teagasc) and Dr Tom O'Callaghan (University College Cork). The project includes opportunities to develop skills in analytical techniques, chromatography, rheology, differential scanning calorimetry, nuclear magnetic resonance, sensory evaluation, data analysis, and research project management.

This is a fully funded four-year PhD under the Walsh Scholars Programme, funded by Research Ireland. Funding includes a €25,000 annual stipend and university fees covered up to €5,750 per annum.

Eligibility highlights include a minimum 2.1 honours degree or equivalent in dairy/food science, food engineering, nutrition, or a related field; strong interest in dairy science and analytical methods; experience with data analysis and quantitative methods; and meeting University College Cork postgraduate entry requirements, including English language requirements where applicable. A valid driving licence is desirable.

Application deadline: 15 May 2026 at 5 pm. Applicants should email a CV and covering letter to [email protected] and [email protected], quoting Walsh Scholars PhD Application – Ref 2017280 in the subject line.