Teagasc, in collaboration with Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and ZALF (Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research), invites applications for a MSc Walsh Scholarship as part of the agriRDM project.

The scholarship is open to candidates of all nationalities with a first-class or upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as agricultural science, behavioural science, psychology, or sociology. Applicants should have experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including survey design, interviews, and stakeholder engagement.

Teagasc, Ireland’s Agriculture and Food Development Authority, is a semi-state organization dedicated to advancing the agri-food sector through research, advisory services, and education. Established in 1988, it supports farmers, food producers, and rural communities by providing science-based solutions to enhance profitability, competitiveness, and sustainability. With a network of research centers, advisory offices, and colleges across Ireland, Teagasc employs around 1,100 staff and manages an annual budget exceeding €160 million, funded largely by state grants and EU programs.

Application Deadline: June 20, 2025 (5:00 pm Irish Time)

Brief Description

• University or Organization: Teagasc (Ireland), Wageningen University & Research (WUR), and ZALF (Germany)

• Department: Agricultural Research / Behavioural Science

• Course Level: MSc (Master’s)

• Award: €31,000 per annum (including a stipend of €25,000 and university fees up to €6,000)

• Access Mode: Online application via email

• Number of Awards: One (1)

• Nationality: Domestic and International

• The award can be taken in: Ireland (Teagasc, Athenry, Co. Galway, or other Teagasc locations), with research visits to the Netherlands and Germany

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: Open to all nationalities

• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in agricultural science, behavioural science, psychology, sociology, or related fields.

• Admissible Criteria:

  • A first-class or upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (e.g., agricultural science, behavioural science, psychology, sociology).

  • Experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including survey design, interviews, and stakeholder engagement.

  • Interest in agri-food research, open science, and research data management (prior knowledge of FAIR principles is beneficial but not mandatory).

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work independently and in an interdisciplinary team.

  • Proficiency in English (written and spoken). International applicants may need to demonstrate English language competency per host institution guidelines.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following application materials:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV) – outlining academic qualifications, research experience, and relevant skills.

2. Cover Letter – explaining interest in the MSc research, relevant background, and how the candidate’s expertise aligns with the project.

3. Contact details of two academic referees.

Application Submission:

• Email the application as a single PDF or separate documents to Dr. John Hyland at [email protected]

• Email Subject Line: “agriRDM MSc Scholarship Application”

• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview (virtual interviews may be conducted).

• The expected start date is September 2025 (or as soon as possible thereafter).

Benefits

• Full funding covering tuition fees (up to €6,000) and an annual stipend (€25,000).

• Opportunity to conduct research in an international collaborative environment, with supervision from experts at Teagasc, WUR, and ZALF.

• Research visits to partner institutions in the Netherlands and Germany, gaining access to their agricultural science communities.

• Contribution to a high-impact project aimed at advancing open science and data management in the agri-food sector.

Apply Now