AHDB Coordinated Studentship Scheme

Applications for Postgraduate Studentship projects

Applications are now being sought from universities and research institutes for the AHDB studentship programme for projects starting in October 2014. AHDB intends to fund up to 16 PhD studentships that deliver new experts and science with practical benefits.

AHDB provides support to a number of postgraduate students who are engaged on research projects relevant to the agriculture and horticulture sectors which we represent. This invitation is open to all UK universities, colleges and research institutes, although it is expected that organisations will be able to demonstrate a record of excellence in the specific area of research as well as in providing high-quality and well-managed research degree programmes.

The aim of this programme is to:

• Deliver useable scientific developments that are relevant to industry priorities
• Help develop the next generation of technical experts for the agriculture and horticulture industries.

Applicants will be expected to demonstrate that their proposals meet the priorities of at least one of the AHDB sector divisions participating in the programme. The specific priorities are detailed on the sector websites:

• Beef and lamb – EBLEX division
• Cereals and oilseeds – HGCA division
• Potatoes – Potato Council division
• Pigs – BPEX division
• Horticulture – HDC division
• Milk – DairyCo division

Funding levels

AHDB recognises that the Research Councils UK levels of funding represent a fair cost for a PhD studentship. Currently this is £22,626 per annum (comprising a stipend of £13,726, indicative fees of £3,900 and experimental costs of £5,000 based on BBSRC awards). It should be noted that not all AHDB divisions can fund at these levels and applicants should check the sector websites for the levels of award available. Applicants are expected to indicate their plans to meet any shortfall between the AHDB award available and these rates.

Application process

Applications should be sent by email to [email protected] on or before MIDDAY on 2nd August 2013. Please indicate clearly in the subject heading which sector the application is addressed to. All proposals received before the deadline will be reviewed. All organisations will be informed of the results of the selection process by the end of October 2013.

Proposal form and guidelines

• PhD Studentship Proposal Form
• PhD Studentship Proposal Guidelines

If you are a student with a project idea please discuss this with your institute/university as we do not accept applications direct from students.

Enquiries and further information

If you need any further information, or details of the contractual terms for these awards, please contact us at: [email protected] indicating which sector(s) your question is addressed to