Fully Funded PhD Scholarship: Bio-Economic Modelling for Irish Hill Sheep – Ireland
About Teagasc & Munster Technological University (MTU)
Applications are open for a PhD Bio-Economic Modelling Hill Sheep Ireland position at Teagasc Moorepark, in collaboration with Munster Technological University. The project develops a whole-farm bio-economic model for the Irish hill sheep sector. Teagasc is the Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority, with Moorepark in Fermoy, Co. Cork serving as a leading centre for livestock research. Munster Technological University (MTU) is a multi-campus technological university in the south-west of Ireland. This PhD is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM). The student will be based at Teagasc Moorepark as part of the animal breeding and genetics research team.
Scholarship Overview
Project Summary
The success of any agricultural sector ultimately depends on improving productivity in a sustainable manner. For the Irish hill sheep sector, this involves producing more output from fewer inputs, reducing costs, and increasing overall system efficiency. Enhancing efficiency requires identification of the key factors that have the greatest impact on performance, and targeting these areas to improve productivity.
Bio-economic modelling provides an effective approach to address this challenge. By simulating the interactions between biological processes and economic outcomes, it enables identification of the components of the farming system that most strongly influence efficiency, profitability, and sustainability.
The student will develop a whole-farm bio-economic model tailored to the Irish hill sheep sector. Using Irish data and representing a range of production systems, the model will support the evaluation of factors influencing performance and provide a framework to inform decision-making by farmers, policymakers, and researchers.
Why This Scholarship Stands Out
This PhD is unique because it focuses on the Irish hill sheep sector – a farming system that is economically and culturally important but faces significant sustainability challenges. Bio-economic modelling is a highly sought-after skill that combines animal science, economics, and data analysis. Unlike purely experimental research, this project develops a decision-support tool that can be used by farmers, policymakers, and researchers. Teagasc Moorepark is Ireland’s premier livestock research centre, with access to experimental farms and national datasets. As a Walsh Scholar, you will have access to structured training, international conference opportunities, and up to 12 weeks of international research placement. For someone interested in the intersection of agriculture, economics, and sustainability, this PhD offers the chance to build a tool that could shape the future of hill sheep farming in Ireland.
Candidate Profile and Eligibility
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | 1.1 or 2.1 Honours degree (or Master’s) in Agricultural Science, Environmental Science, or related discipline |
| Experience | Demonstrated experience with Irish hill sheep production systems |
| Interest | Strong interest in sheep production systems |
| Analytical Skills | Data handling and analytical skills |
| Communication | Excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to engage effectively with farmers and industry stakeholders |
| Driving Licence | Full, clean driving licence valid in Ireland |
| University Requirements | Meet MTU postgraduate entry and English language requirements (where applicable) |
My Application Strategy
- Highlight your knowledge of Irish hill sheep systems – Understand the unique challenges of hill farming (extensive grazing, harsh conditions, lower productivity)
- Emphasize quantitative and modelling skills – Mention any experience with statistical software (R, SAS, Python) or economic modelling
- Show interest in bio-economic modelling – Read about the concept of bio-economic models (integrating biological and economic components)
- Demonstrate understanding of sustainability – Hill sheep farming faces challenges around profitability, emissions, and land use
- Read Dr. Nóirín McHugh’s research on sheep breeding and statistical modelling – Cite her work in your personal statement
What They Offer
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Stipend | €25,000 per annum |
| Tuition Fees | Covered up to €6,000 per annum |
| Duration | 4 years (full-time) |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
| Research Environment | Teagasc Moorepark (leading centre for livestock research) |
| University | Munster Technological University (MTU) |
| Training | Walsh Scholars Programme (structured training, workshops, professional development) |
| International Placement | Up to 12 weeks (Teagasc International Training Awards) |
| Conference Support | National and international conference presentations |
Who Should Apply
This PhD is perfect for a student with a background in agricultural science, animal science, or economics who wants to develop expertise in bio-economic modelling. If you are interested in how biological processes (animal growth, reproduction, mortality) interact with economic outcomes (costs, prices, profitability), this project offers training at the intersection of these disciplines. Candidates with experience in Irish hill sheep systems are especially encouraged. The ideal candidate is someone who understands that improving farm efficiency requires understanding both the animals and the economics.
How to Apply
Send the following to Dr Nóirín McHugh (noirin.mchugh@teagasc.ie) and Dr Deirdre Purfield (Deirdre.Purfield@mtu.ie) with the subject line:
“PhD Application – Walsh Ref 2025206”
Required Documents:
- CV (including two referees)
- 1-2 page personal statement outlining:
- Why you are interested in this project
- Why you are a strong candidate for this PhD
Deadline: May 1, 2026 – 5:00 PM
Interviews: Early May 2026
Informal queries: noirin.mchugh@teagasc.ie
Useful Links
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