PhD Agricultural Systems Management

The production of food and other land-based goods is achieved through agricultural systems.

There is increasing need for more sustainable agricultural systems. This is to help tackle challenges such as biodiversity protection, environmental damage, animal welfare, livestock diseases, climate change and changes to agricultural policy under Brexit.

Using management science, modelling, statistical and survey-based approaches, we aim to:

Statistical models have been used to measure the productivity and economic efficiency of agricultural systems. There is an emphasis on reducing waste through improved use of agricultural resources and management.

Read about some of our research in the School of Biosciences: Harvesting information to help farmers in post-Brexit Britain

A PhD is an independent in-depth research project. You will be able to develop additional skills through training programmes to help you complete your PhD. See the support section for more details.

In each year you will have a regular meetings with your supervisor and an annual review.

An MPhil is a shorter research degree. You will do a research project over one to two years. You'll have a supervisor to support you. An MPhil is assessed by a research thesis.

An MRes is a one-year course that includes an original independent research project worth 160 credits.

You’ll also study 20 credits of taught modules. You can choose from a selection of masters-level modules and transferable skills training.

The school believes that formal training and guidance are critical components of the postgraduate experience and have developed specific and generic training which are available for all postgraduates.

Project-related training is provided by the supervisors and other staff within the school. You will have frequent contact with your supervisor, often on a weekly or even daily basis, and there is a formal requirement for at least 10 recorded meetings per year.

Teaching is typically delivered by professors, associate and assistant professors. Some practical laboratory sessions and research projects may be supported by postdoctoral research fellows.