Scholarship overview
Key facts
Application dates
Background:
In New Zealand, deferred grazing practices are increasingly adopted by farmers aiming to enhance pasture persistence and profitability while simultaneously reducing environmental impacts. However, there remains a significant knowledge gap regarding how grazing management influences seasonal variations in plant carbon energy reserves and root growth dynamics. Addressing this gap is crucial for determining optimal timing for strategic grazing and pasture spelling, especially for improving perennial legume persistence.
This exciting PhD research opportunity offers the chance to make a significant contribution to sustainable agriculture by quantifying the impacts of alternative grazing management strategies on perennial legume persistence and soil carbon stocks. As a PhD candidate, you will work closely with industry experts, gain hands-on experience in glasshouse and field trials, and develop networks with stakeholders to ensure your research has real-world impact.
The research outcomes will provide clear guidance for improving pasture productivity, resilience, and environmental performance, positioning you at the forefront of sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, targeted stakeholder engagement activities will be conducted to evaluate the scalability and practical adoption of these grazing management practices across New Zealand farming systems.
This PhD programme is funded through the prestigious T.R. Ellett Agricultural Research Trust and includes an annual stipend of NZ$40,000 in addition to covering student fees and StudentSafe insurance (if applicable) up to NZ$10,000 annually. This programme is suited for a candidate with an Honours or Masters qualification in Agronomy, Pasture Science, or plant-related disciplines. The aim is to have the successful candidate on site as soon as possible.
This PhD opportunity is coupled to a funded T.R. Ellett Agricultural Trust - Research Project.
The student will be expected to work independently and as part of a large team of multi-disciplinary scientists, technicians, and other postgraduate students to undertake their research.
Application Requirements:
Please provide a cover letter, curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, and the names and contact information of 3 referees.
Contact:
Dr. Andrew D. Cartmill, Trevor Ellett Senior Lecturer in Grassland Science
Application checklist
Include the following with your application:
- a cover letter
- curriculum vitae
- academic transcripts
- the names and contact information of 3 referees