Fully Funded PhD in Sustainability Assessment of Smart Technologies in Food Supply Chains

PhDFinder; Emfuleni Local Municipality; On-site; EUR 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research university offers a fully funded PhD opportunity focused on sustainability and smart technologies in the agri-food sector. This role requires a strong academic background in Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or related fields. The candidate will evaluate environmental impacts and develop frameworks for sustainable practices. The position includes a stipend of €25,000 per year and full tuition coverage.

Benefits

€25,000 per year tax-free stipend

Full tuition coverage

Comprehensive training in sustainability assessment

Qualifications

• Strong proficiency in English (CEFR C1 or equivalent).
• A Master's degree in a relevant field is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate environmental impacts of smart technologies.
• Assess socio-economic effects of technologies.
• Develop a framework for sustainable scaling.

Skills

Teamwork

Research writing

Presentation skills

Analytical mindset

Interest in sustainability

Education

First class or 2:1 Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

Tools

Matlab

Job description

University: University College Dublin

Country: Ireland

Deadline: 2025-07-31

Fields: Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Bioprocess Engineering, Food Technology, Environmental Science

Are you passionate about advancing sustainability in the agri-food sector and eager to shape the future of animal-origin food supply chains with cutting-edge technologies? If your career goals include making a tangible impact on global food systems while developing your expertise in sustainability assessment, this fully funded PhD opportunity at University College Dublin could be your next step.

The agri-food industry is undergoing a transformative shift with the adoption of smart technologies such as IoT, AI-powered analytics, and digital platforms. These innovations promise to enhance efficiency and sustainability, but their broader environmental and socio-economic impacts require rigorous assessment. This PhD project offers the chance to be at the forefront of this vital research, contributing to frameworks that will guide sustainable practices and policy in the sector.

About The University Or Research Institute

University College Dublin (UCD) is one of Europe’s leading research-intensive universities, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. Located in the vibrant capital city of Ireland, UCD’s School of Biosystems & Food Engineering offers a dynamic environment for interdisciplinary research. The school is well-known for its strong industry collaborations, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive academic community that fosters both professional and personal growth. As a student at UCD, you will benefit from a rich academic heritage and access to leading experts in the field.

Research Topic and Significance

The focus of this PhD project is the sustainability assessment of smart technologies within animal-origin food supply chains. The agri-food sector is rapidly integrating digital innovations to improve productivity and reduce environmental footprints. However, understanding the true impact of these technologies requires a holistic approach that considers both environmental and socio-economic dimensions.

Also See

• Faculty Positions in Sustainable Production and Supply Chains at DTU
• Fully Funded PhD in Nanotechnology and Biomedical Applications at TU Dublin
• Fully Funded PhD Graduate Research Fellowships in Agrimechatronics at North Dakota State University
• Lecturer/Senior Lecturer Positions in Bioengineering at UQ
• MSc and PhD Opportunities in AI, Image Processing, and IoT at University of Manitoba
  
  

This research is timely and significant, as consumers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders increasingly demand transparency and accountability in food production. By developing an integrated framework for assessing these impacts, the project will provide essential insights for the sustainable scaling of smart technologies and inform evidence-based policy decisions. The outcomes will help ensure that advances in technology contribute positively to both the environment and society.

Project Details

This Is a 4-year, Fully Funded PhD Position As Part Of The SEUPB PEACEPLUS Initiative. The Successful Candidate Will Work Under The Supervision Of Dr Tamiris Da Costa And Dr Junli Xu At UCD’s School Of Biosystems & Food Engineering. The Project Aims To

– Evaluate the environmental impacts of smart technologies in animal-based food supply chains.

– Assess socio-economic effects, including cost savings and community benefits.

– Develop a robust framework for sustainable scaling and policy guidance.

The position offers a €25,000 per year tax-free stipend, full tuition coverage (up to €19,200 per year), and comprehensive training in Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA), Matlab, and industry collaboration.

Candidate Profile

This Opportunity Is Ideal For Candidates Who Are Highly Motivated To Pursue Research At The Intersection Of Technology, Sustainability, And Food Systems. The Following Backgrounds Are Particularly Suitable

– Biotechnology

– Chemical or Bioprocess Engineering

– Food Technology

– Related disciplines with a focus on sustainability or food systems

Applicants Should Possess

– A first class or 2:1 Bachelor’s degree and/or Master’s in a relevant field.

– Strong teamwork, research writing, and presentation skills.

– Proficiency in English (CEFR C1 or equivalent).

– An analytical mindset, a collaborative approach, and a keen interest in sustainability assessment and technological innovation.

Application Process

To Apply, Candidates Must

• Complete the online application form (Apply Here: https://forms.gle/soGAnA5PdViLH7Vi8 ).
• Submit the following documents:
  
  

– CV (maximum 3 pages)

– Cover letter (maximum 2 pages) outlining research interests and relevant experience.

Application deadline: 31 July 2025 (5 PM IST).

The project is scheduled to commence in September 2025.

Conclusion

If you are eager to contribute to the sustainability of global food systems and wish to develop advanced skills in sustainability assessment, this PhD position at University College Dublin presents an outstanding opportunity. We encourage all eligible and motivated candidates to apply and explore similar opportunities to further their academic and professional ambitions.

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