Are you interested in fields like agriculture, environment, or rural development, and you’ve been considering Ireland as your study destination, this might be the perfect chance. The DAERA Postgraduate Studentships for 2025 offer fully funded support for PhD-level studies. Whether you’re just starting your research plans or already have a solid proposal, this studentship could be the key to making your academic goals a reality. Let’s dive into the details and see how this program works.
What is the DAERA Postgraduate Studentships?
The DAERA (Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs) Postgraduate Studentship is a scholarship designed to support research that directly aligns with Ireland’s pressing needs in agriculture, environmental sustainability, and rural development. This fully funded opportunity provides financial support for PhD programs at universities in Ireland.
It’s not just about funding—it’s about conducting meaningful research that can contribute to real-world solutions. One focus area for 2025 is exploring nature-based solutions for environmental challenges, such as the ongoing Lough Neagh initiative.
Why Should You Apply?
Here are some great reasons to consider applying for this scholarship:
- Comprehensive funding: The studentship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and research-related costs, so you can focus entirely on your studies.
- Global impact: You’ll contribute to solutions for urgent global issues like climate change and sustainable agriculture.
- Career opportunities: The experience gained through this program opens doors to careers in academia, research, and policy-making.
- Support system: With expert supervisors and access to research resources, you’ll have the guidance needed to excel in your field.
What Subjects Are Covered?
The scholarship is open to the following programs at the participating universities:
- Agriculture: Topics may include sustainable farming, food security, or agri-tech innovations.
- Environment: Research can explore biodiversity conservation, climate change solutions, or pollution control.
- Rural Development: Focus on community resilience, rural economy, or policy development to improve rural living standards.
Your research proposal must align with DAERA’s priorities for 2025, including their special focus on nature-based solutions at Lough Neagh.
Benefits of the DAERA Postgraduate Studentships
The DAERA Postgraduate Studentships offers several benefits to eligible students:
- Tuition fees: The scholarship covers your tuition in full.
- Living stipend: For the 2024/25 academic year, the stipend is £19,237 (2025 rates will be announced later).
- Research expenses: Funding is available for conferences, overseas fieldwork, and specialized training related to your research.
Who Can Apply?
This scholarship is intended for PhD students who fall into the following categories:
- Nationality and residency:
- You should have lived in Northern Ireland or Ireland for at least three years before October 1, 2025.
- International students are welcome if they meet the residency requirement.
- Academic qualifications:
- You must hold a First-Class or Upper Second-Class Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field.
- Final-year undergraduate students (graduating by June 2025) can also apply.
- Doctoral eligibility:
- You should not already hold a PhD or have been registered for one for more than a year.
Required documents: below is the list of the needed documents for the scholarship:
- A research proposal that aligns with DAERA’s 2025 research priorities.
- A university offer of admission for a PhD program in Ireland.
- An academic reference from a professor or supervisor who can vouch for your abilities.
- Proof of residency in Ireland or Northern Ireland.
How to Apply for DAERA Postgraduate Studentships
Interested in joining the DAERA Postgraduate Studentships? Here is a straightforward guide to help you apply:Â
- Develop your proposal: Start by identifying a research topic that fits DAERA’s focus areas.
- Secure a supervisor: Find a professor at your chosen university who agrees to supervise your research.
- Submit your application: Complete the application form on the official DAERA portal and include all required documents.
- Meet the deadline: Applications close at midnight on 25 February 2025, so don’t delay.
- For questions or further assistance, contact DAERA at postgraduate@daera-ni.gov.uk.
Application Deadline(s)
The application deadline is February 25, 2025.
Conclusion
If you’re passionate about research that addresses real-world challenges, the DAERA Postgraduate Studentship is a golden opportunity. It’s not just about funding—it’s about making a difference. From agriculture to environmental sustainability, your research could help shape a better future.
So, what are you waiting for? Visit the DAERA Postgraduate Studentships page via the link under the ‘HOW TO APPLY’ section above