Gildernew launches Postgraduate Research Awards 2010

Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA, today launched the annual Postgraduate Agriculture and Food Research Awards for the academic year beginning October 2010.

Announcing the awards, the Minister said: “My Department’s commitment to research is long established and we currently fund twenty-four PhD students who are carrying out three year research projects. Earlier this year, we launched our first Evidence and Innovation Strategy. The Strategy will provide an over-arching framework for all DARD funded R&D for the next five-ten years, including our 2010 Postgraduate Studentships.

“We also held our first Postgraduate seminar in September, when final year PhD students presented their work to researchers, students and some of my Policy and Delivery staff. Postgraduate research is one of the key mechanisms by which we can secure the research identified in our strategy to inform our policies and to promote innovation in the agri-food industry and our wider rural communities.”

In conclusion, the Minister added: “Anyone interested in applying should ensure they have their application with my Department by 5pm on Friday 26 February 2010. I wish everyone applying the best of luck in the application process.”

DARD will award up to eight studentships for full-time research, leading to a PhD qualification. Applications must meet the priority research themes, which are aligned to the Evidence and Innovation Strategy (2009-2013). We have listed potential project areas which we would particularly welcome.

Details of these, along with application forms and terms and conditions for the Postgraduate Agriculture and Food Studentships 2010 are available from our website.

or by telephoning Deirdre Cummings on (028) 9052 4710. DARD Evidence & Innovation Strategy (2009-2013) is available from the DARD website.

Late applications cannot be considered by the Department.

Notes to editors:

1. Completed forms should be sent to: Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Education and Finance Branch, Room 555, Dundonald House, Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 3SB to be received no later than 5.00pm on Friday 26 February 2010. References should be supplied by Friday 12 March 2010.
2. There will be an initial sift to identify project proposals which meet the priority research areas. Successful candidates will be interviewed.
3. Interviews will be held on 29, 30 & 31 March 2010.
4. For the 2010 Postgraduate Agriculture and Food Studentships the Priority Research Themes, Potential Project Areas and DARD Evidence & Innovation Strategy are available on our website.
5. All media enquiries should be directed to the DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.