British Fully Funded PhD Studentships

British Fully Funded PhD Studentships at Agronomy Institute, Orkney College, UHI Millennium Institute

UHI Millennium Institute is a unique, multicentre network of colleges and research Institutions of national standing in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. UHI is concentrating on a targeted expansion of proven international research strengths and the development of key new foci.

With a £7.8 million UHI wide research funding package providing a step-change in our research capacity, the Agronomy Institute aims to build a high-calibre, prestigious research programme that will contribute to our international profile. Part of UHI-Orkney College, AI provides a high quality, dynamic research environment centred in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney. The AI aims to address regional, national and international issues in agriculture through innovation and excellence.

As part of the research strategy, the AI is offering two, fully funded 3 year PhD programmes to be based in Orkney.

Investigating the potential of willow as a biomass crop for the Northern Isles of Scotland

Effects of soil type and agricultural inputs on plant growth, grain quality and economic returns of Bere barley (Hordeum vulgare) in Orkney

Studentships carry a bursary that is currently £12 000 per annum. Applicants should have at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (although in exceptional circumstances candidates holding qualifications and experience different from the above may be considered). International applicants must provide a certificate on English Language competency scores of IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 580 or equivalent.

For informal enquires on the willow project contact Dr Geoff Sellers (geoff.sellers @ uhi.ac.uk) or +44 (0) 1856 569299

For informal enquires on the Bere project contact Dr Xianmin Chang (xianmin.chang @ uhi.ac.uk) or +44 (0) 1856 569294

Closing date for applications: 27 April 2007