Project Summary

Reducing the average finishing age of prime beef cattle from 26 months to 22-23 months by 2030 has been identified as a key measure to support Ireland’s target of a 25% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the agricultural sector. While research and high-performing commercial farms have demonstrated the feasibility of achieving earlier finishing within grass-based systems, the national average remains significantly higher, highlighting a gap between current practice and achievable performance.

This MSc project will assess the effects of nutrition, health, and on-farm environment on growth and finishing outcomes, alongside their implications for GHG emissions. The project will primarily use existing industry datasets in collaboration with the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) and University College Dublin (UCD), with potential involvement in a large-scale on-farm study to support additional data generation.

Why This Scholarship Stands Out

This MSc is unique because it addresses a critical national target: reducing beef cattle finishing age to lower agricultural GHG emissions. Ireland has committed to a 25% reduction in agricultural emissions, and improving finishing efficiency is central to achieving this goal. The project uses existing industry datasets from the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF), offering access to large-scale, real-world production data. The research combines desk-based data analysis with potential on-farm study involvement, providing both quantitative and practical research experience. Teagasc Grange is a world-class research centre with state-of-the-art experimental facilities. As a Walsh Scholar, you will have access to structured training, international conference opportunities, and up to 12 weeks of international research placement through the Teagasc International Training Awards.

Candidate Profile and Eligibility

My Application Strategy

1. Highlight your understanding of Irish beef production systems – Familiarity with grass-based systems and finishing ages is valuable
2. Emphasize quantitative data analysis skills – The project uses large industry datasets. Mention any experience with statistical software (R, SAS, SPSS)
3. Show interest in GHG emissions and sustainability – Understanding of agricultural emissions (methane, nitrous oxide) is advantageous
4. Demonstrate knowledge of animal growth and nutrition – Beef cattle growth rates, feed efficiency, and finishing protocols
5. Read Dr. Paul Smith’s research on enteric methane emissions – Cite his work in your personal statement to show genuine interest

What They Offer

Who Should Apply

This MSc is perfect for a student with a strong background in agricultural or animal science who wants to address real-world sustainability challenges in livestock production. If you are interested in how farm management practices affect animal growth, emissions, and profitability – and want to work with large industry datasets – this project offers training across animal science, environmental science, and data analysis. Candidates with an EU driving licence and a willingness to engage with both desk-based research and potential on-farm studies are especially encouraged. The ideal candidate is someone who understands that improving technical efficiency on farms is one of the most practical ways to reduce agricultural emissions.nce – not just in publications, but on working farms. and sustainability.

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