🌱 Fully Funded Maynooth University PhD Scholarships in Investigating Oat Mosaic Virus Dynamics in Ireland’s Tillage Systems 🌱
Apply for fully funded Maynooth University PhD Scholarships! Conduct impactful research on Oat Mosaic Virus, with a €31,000 annual stipend. Deadline: 1st November 2024.
Are you an aspiring researcher with a keen interest in plant science and a drive to make meaningful contributions to agriculture? Here’s an extraordinary opportunity to join a highly impactful research project in Ireland, courtesy of Teagasc and Maynooth University. This fully funded PhD Walsh Scholarship focuses on investigating the spatio-temporal dynamics of Oat Mosaic Virus (OMV) in Irish tillage systems, offering you a chance to dive into critical research that addresses the agronomic challenges posed by OMV, a virus that can drastically reduce oat crop yields.
About the Project:
Oats are a vital crop for Ireland’s tillage sector, serving as a key element in crop rotations and an expanding market. However, the recent rise in oat cultivation has heightened concerns around disease outbreaks, particularly the Oat Mosaic Virus (OMV). OMV is transmitted by the soil-borne parasite Polymyxa graminis, which can cut oat yields by up to 50%, making the soil unsuitable for further cultivation. This PhD project aims to bridge significant knowledge gaps in the understanding of OMV under Irish climatic conditions, thereby enabling science-backed agricultural decisions for the oat sector.
Project Objectives:
As a PhD candidate in this project, you will be undertaking research with direct applications in diagnostics, epidemiology, and crop management. The project has three primary goals:
- Develop a Molecular Diagnostic Tool: You’ll work on creating molecular-based diagnostics for both Polymyxa graminis (the vector) and OMV. This will help study the genetic diversity and spatial distribution of the vector-virus complex in Irish soils.
- Quantify OMV Prevalence in Irish Tillage Fields: Your research will include surveys of organic and conventional oat farms, offering insights into how OMV affects different farming systems. This will provide a clear picture of OMV’s presence across the sector, helping to inform targeted management strategies.
- Assess OMV Load Impact on Yield and Resistance: You will investigate the relationship between OMV load, yield penalties, and varietal resistance, contributing to the development of more resilient oat varieties.
Through these objectives, you’ll not only address a critical issue impacting oat farmers but also help to secure the economic viability of Ireland’s oat sector.
Requirements and Qualifications:
This scholarship is open to candidates with a strong academic and practical background in plant or crop biology, biotechnology, or related biological sciences. Here are the key qualifications and requirements for applicants:
- Educational Qualification: A minimum Second Class (2.1) Honours (or equivalent degree) is required in relevant fields, such as Plant/Crop Biology, Biotechnology, or other biological science subjects. A Master’s degree or prior research experience in these fields will be highly desirable and strengthen your application.
- Language Requirement: Strong communication skills in English are essential, both for stakeholder engagement and for presenting findings at conferences. If your first language is not English, you’ll need to meet an English proficiency requirement of at least 6.5 IELTS (with no component below 6.0) or an equivalent qualification.
- Practical Requirement: The project involves field visits for crop monitoring, sample collection, and lab-based plant and soil sample analysis. Additionally, you must have a valid driving license to operate in Ireland, as this project requires frequent mobility for data collection across the country.
These requirements ensure that you have both the theoretical knowledge and practical ability to succeed in this challenging yet rewarding research project.
What the Scholarship Offers:
This fully funded PhD scholarship is a joint effort between Teagasc’s Walsh Scholarship Program and the Irish Seed Trade Association’s bursaries, in collaboration with Maynooth University. Here’s what the scholarship provides:
- Annual Stipend: You’ll receive a generous stipend of €31,000 per annum, which includes a €6,000 contribution to university fees. If you’re an international student, additional funding may be available to cover international tuition fees.
- Project Support and Funding: The project will take place primarily at Teagasc’s Oak Park Research Centre, located in Carlow, where you’ll benefit from access to state-of-the-art research facilities. You’ll work under the academic guidance of Dr. David Fitzpatrick (Maynooth University) and Teagasc scientists Dr. Atikur Rahman, Dr. Ewen Mullins, and Dr. Stephen Byrne. Moreover, the project provides additional funding for essential research consumables, as well as travel support to national and international conferences where you’ll present your findings.
This PhD project doesn’t just fund your education; it’s a comprehensive research experience that will position you as a subject matter expert in plant virology and epidemiology.
Why Apply?
- Contribute to the Future of Sustainable Agriculture: Oat production is critical for food security and sustainable agriculture. Participating in this research will help make oat farming more resilient against viral threats, contributing to a stable and sustainable agricultural sector in Ireland.
- Skill Development and Networking: As a part of this scholarship, you’ll gain hands-on experience in fieldwork, laboratory diagnostics, data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Furthermore, attending international conferences will allow you to network with top scientists and share your work on global platforms, advancing your career.
- Gain a Unique Academic and Practical Perspective: The project offers a perfect balance of lab and fieldwork, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the challenges and solutions in agricultural science. This experience will be invaluable if you plan to continue in research or pursue a career in the agribusiness sector.
Application Process:
Ready to apply? Submit an electronic copy of your cover letter and curriculum vitae (CV) in PDF. Please use the format “FirstName_LastName.pdf” for the filename. Email your application to Dr. Atikur Rahman at atikur.rahman@teagasc.ie. Don’t forget to include the application reference code “WS application reference-2023203” in the subject line to ensure your application is processed.
Important Dates:
Application Deadline: 1st November 2024
This scholarship is an exceptional opportunity for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in plant biology and agricultural science. By joining this project, you’re advancing your academic career but also supporting the future of sustainable farming. Don’t miss your chance to become a part of this transformative research—apply today!
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