Dr Eric Ojala Postgraduate Scholarship in Agricultural Policy Research

For master's and doctoral students undertaking research primarily in the field of agricultural policy and strategy studies.

Scholarship overview

Status: Closed

Key facts

Value: $5,000 for a master's student, $8,000 for a doctoral student
Duration: One years duration
Number available: Up to 2 awards
Type of study: Full-time, Part-time, Postgraduate, Masters, PhD or doctorate, Research

Application dates

Applications open: 15 July 2026
Closing date: 15 September 2026

Restrictions

Eligibility restrictions: New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.

The Venture Trust Inc. (now known formally as the Eric Ojala Sub-Trust of the Massey University Foundation, and informally as the Eric Ojala Fund) was established in 1986.

The aim of the founder (Dr Eric Ojala) was to encourage, promote and assist research and development in New Zealand agriculture and land based science, especially that involving agricultural policy and strategy, agricultural trade and markets, agricultural economics and farm management and food technology, production and innovation. The word "agriculture" is broadly interpreted to include any productive activity on rural land - including forestry and horticulture. In 2014 the Trustees transferred the funds into the Massey University Foundation.

Who we're looking for

We are looking for a candidate who is researching agricultural policies. The successful recipient will use the funds towards supporting their research costs, and will acknowledge the Eric Ojala Sub Trust in any publications resulting from the research.

What you'll be studying

This is a postgraduate scholarship. You will be enrolled full time or part time in a research course of 60, 90, or 120 credits.

You will be undertaking research related to agriculture and land use policies in New Zealand, or to foreign agricultural policies that are deemed to be of relevance to the New Zealand agricultural sector and the wider New Zealand economy.

Eligibility criteria

You will be:

  • a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
  • enrolled in, or intending to enrol in a master’s degree or doctoral degree at Massey University in the year of award

Application checklist

Include the following with your application:

  • a research outline including links to agriculture and land use policies in New Zealand
  • a summary of the expected costs associated with your research
  • an academic Reference from primary supervisor
  • a copy of your transcripts for any tertiary level study completed outside of Massey (if applicable)

Selection considerations

When choosing our recipients, we will consider your academic achievements to date as well as the alignment of your research to the Trust's purpose.