Applications open for 2026 Teagasc Walsh Scholars PhD and Research Masters opportunities

The 2026 intake includes 17 PhD opportunities funded by Teagasc, reflecting significant investment in developing highly skilled research graduates to address priority challenges across agriculture, food, environment, climate and rural development.

The Walsh Scholars Programme enables graduates to undertake fully funded PhD or Research Masters study while contributing to research with real-world national and international relevance. Projects span key areas including sustainable agriculture and food systems, climate and environmental science, grassland and livestock systems, crop production, soil and nutrient management, food innovation, rural development and farmer wellbeing.

Scholars are based in Teagasc’s national research centres and partner universities and are jointly supervised by Teagasc researchers and academic staff in leading Irish and international universities. The programme combines academic excellence with applied research, supported by access to state-of-the-art facilities, strong university partnerships and engagement with national and international research networks.

In addition to advanced research training, Walsh Scholars benefit from a structured doctoral training framework that includes opportunities for international collaboration and conference participation, alongside training in communication, leadership and problem-solving, and membership of a supportive, cohort-based research community.

Jane Kavanagh, Head of Research Development and Walsh Scholars at Teagasc, said: “The Walsh Scholars Programme gives graduates an exceptional opportunity to develop to doctoral level within a structured and supportive training environment. Through strong university partnerships and international engagement, scholars build the skills and confidence needed to progress as researchers and professionals in the agri-food sector.”

Pat Dillon, Director of Research at Teagasc, added: “Developing a strong pipeline of research talent is essential to the future of Ireland’s agri-food sector. The Walsh Scholars Programme plays a key role in supporting high-quality postgraduate training that delivers both scientific excellence and real-world impact.”

Graduates interested in pursuing PhD or Research Masters study through the Walsh Scholars Programme are encouraged to apply, with all 2026 opportunities advertised centrally and full details provided on each project, supervision team, training supports and funding.

Most applications close on Tuesday, 18 March 2026, and most successful applicants will commence their studies in September 2026 as part of the 2026 Walsh Scholars intake.

Further information and application details click here

ENDS.

About the Teagasc Walsh Scholars Programme

The Walsh Scholars Programme is Teagasc’s long-established postgraduate scholarship programme, founded in honour of Dr Tom Walsh, the first Director of Teagasc. The programme supports PhD and Research Masters students undertaking postgraduate study in agriculture, food, environment, climate and rural development.

Walsh Scholars receive joint supervision from Teagasc researchers and academic staff in Irish and international universities and are supported through a structured postgraduate training framework. Scholarships provide a stipend of €25,000 per year, with tuition fees covered up to €6,000 annually, subject to programme terms and conditions. The Walsh Scholars Programme is funded by Teagasc and a range of national and European funders, including Research Ireland, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), Horizon Europe and other national and European funding bodies, and has played a central role in developing research capacity and leadership across Ireland’s agri-food and bioeconomy sectors.