A prestigious scholarship opportunity, the TEAGASC PhD Walsh Scholarship, is now open for applications until October 31, 2025. This fully funded four-year PhD program, in collaboration with University College Dublin (UCD) and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), aims to delve into the impacts of policy pressures on farmer autonomy and wellbeing within the agricultural sector.
Amidst the intricate web of policies, standards, and regulations that govern the agricultural landscape, farmers face increasing challenges that affect their decision-making control and overall wellbeing. The TEAGASC PhD project seeks to address this gap by exploring how various regulatory sources intersect and influence farmers’ autonomy and mental health.
Grounded in Job Demand-Control Theory, the research project hypothesizes that regulatory stress undermines farmers’ autonomy, consequently impacting their job control and overall stress levels. By conducting a mixed-methods study, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, the project aims to shed light on the intricate balance between regulatory control and personal autonomy in shaping farmer wellbeing and sustainable agricultural practices.
The study will not only contribute to academic knowledge by exploring the mediating role of autonomy in the relationship between policy pressures and farmer wellbeing but also provide practical recommendations for policymakers to design interventions that support farmer autonomy and social sustainability.
Applicants for this scholarship are expected to hold relevant academic qualifications and demonstrate a keen interest in exploring the complexities of regulatory environments within the agricultural sector. Proficiency in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, along with strong communication skills, are key requirements for prospective candidates.
The successful candidate will benefit from a €25,000 annual stipend, tuition fee coverage, and access to research technician support. Under the guidance of interdisciplinary supervisors from UCD and Teagasc, the PhD scholar will be part of a broader sustainability research network, contributing to the future of sustainable food systems.
By offering a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research on agricultural governance and farmer wellbeing, the TEAGASC PhD Walsh Scholarship aims to shape a more equitable and socially sustainable future for farming communities. The deadline for applications is set for October 31, 2025, inviting aspiring scholars to be part of this transformative research endeavor.
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