Fully Funded PhD Scholarship: Impacts of Agrivoltaics on Biodiversity and Soil Physical Properties – Teagasc / Dublin City University – Ireland
Quick Overview
Teagasc and Dublin City University are offering a fully funded PhD position investigating how agrivoltaic systems (solar farms combined with sheep grazing) influence biodiversity, soil physical properties, and wider ecosystem functioning. This project is part of the BiOrbic OviVoltaics programme, examining the integration of utility-scale solar generation with animal production systems. Fieldwork will be conducted on commercial solar farms in Counties Meath and Wexford.
Experience Level: Minimum Second Class Honours (2.1) degree in Entomology, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Zoology, or related discipline
Best Fit: Candidates with interest in ecology, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture
Deadline: August 19, 2026
Key Details
| Position | PhD Researcher (Walsh Scholar) |
| Project | Impacts of agrivoltaics on biodiversity and soil physical properties |
| Institution | Teagasc / Dublin City University |
| Location | Teagasc, Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford |
| Qualification | MSc Entomology, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Zoology, or related discipline |
| Stipend | €25,000 per annum |
| Fees | Covered up to €5,500 per annum |
| Duration | 4 years |
| Start Date | September/October 2026 |
| Deadline | August 19, 2026 |
| Reference Number | 2025224 |
| Apply Via | saorla.kavanagh@teagasc.ie |
Project Summary
As photovoltaic (PV) technology expands rapidly across Ireland, there is growing interest in agrivoltaic systems that combine farming with solar electricity generation. Sheep grazing beneath solar panels is currently the only viable livestock enterprise within utility-scale solar farms.
This PhD will investigate how agrivoltaic systems influence biodiversity and ecosystem functioning by examining the relationships between biodiversity patterns and the microclimatic conditions beneath solar panels. The student will compare management systems with sheep grazing and without grazing, assessing pollinator feeding and nesting behaviour, plant community composition, and the ecological benefits of sheep grazing within agrivoltaic systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct biodiversity surveys of plants and pollinators
- Undertake ecohydrological monitoring using sensor networks deployed on solar farms
- Examine how microclimate and grazing management interact to influence biodiversity, soil health, and ecosystem processes
- Gain expertise in field-based ecological research, biodiversity surveys, ecohydrological monitoring, experimental design, and environmental data analysis
Who Should Apply
This role is best for candidates with a strong background in ecology, environmental science, or related disciplines.
Strong candidates will have:
- Minimum 2.1 Honours degree in Entomology, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Zoology, or related discipline
- Analytical skills in field and/or laboratory research, including data handling, analysis, and presentation
- Ability to think critically and apply multidisciplinary approaches
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Willingness to undertake fieldwork and engage with landowners and farmers
- Full, clean driving licence valid in Ireland
- Meet Dublin City University postgraduate entry and English language requirements
What They Offer
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Stipend | €25,000 per annum |
| Fees | Covered up to €5,500 per annum |
| Duration | 4 years |
| Location | Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford |
| Training | Walsh Scholars Programme (structured training, workshops, professional development) |
| International Placement | Up to 12 weeks (Teagasc International Training Awards) |
Application Tips
- Highlight ecology or environmental science background – 2.1 Honours degree required.
- Show field research experience – Biodiversity surveys, ecological monitoring.
- Demonstrate data analysis skills – Environmental data handling.
- Mention driving licence – Required for fieldwork.
- Submit CV and personal statement – 1-2 pages outlining interest and suitability.
How to Apply
Send your application to Dr Saorla Kavanagh at saorla.kavanagh@teagasc.ie
Subject Line: “PhD Application – Walsh Scholars Reference: 2025224”
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
- Application Deadline: August 19, 2026 at 5 PM
- Interviews: Online, August 24, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the qualification requirement? Minimum 2.1 Honours degree in Entomology, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Zoology, or related discipline.
- What is the stipend? €25,000 per annum.
- What are the fees covered? Up to €5,500 per annum.
- What is the duration? 4 years.
- What is the deadline? August 19, 2026.
