Agriculture PhD Research Projects
On studying at Newcastle: 'The combination of a commercial farm environment with a research-focused and educational mission has provided a unique platform for hands-on learning and experimentation.'
Sophia's thoughts on...
Choosing Newcastle
One of the standout advantages of Newcastle is its state-of-the-art facilities, particularly NU Farms. Having access to these research farms is a tremendous asset; it allows me to conduct hands-on, field-based research that would be difficult to replicate elsewhere. The availability of these resources, combined with the university’s commitment to supporting innovation in plant science, aligns perfectly with my research goals and will be instrumental in helping me advance my work in applied plant science.
Furthermore, Newcastle’s strong sense of academic community and commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge resonate deeply with me. This environment, along with the facilities and mentorship on offer, makes Newcastle University the ideal place for me to continue my research and contribute meaningfully to the field of plant science.
Their research programme
The program’s structure has also allowed me to maintain and strengthen my industry connections, particularly through a partnership with Fera (Food and Environment Research Agency). This collaboration has been invaluable not only for advancing my research but also for refining essential skills like presentation and networking. Working closely with industry experts has given me a deeper insight into real-world applications of my research, while also positioning me well for future roles in the Agri-tech sector. This combination of academic depth, skill-building, and industry engagement is what makes this program truly fulfilling for me.
University facilities
My ongoing involvement with NU Farms has been an invaluable part of my experience at Newcastle University, particularly throughout my PhD and various other projects over the years. These facilities—from the open fields to advanced glasshouses—are essential to the innovative research that happens beyond the farm gates. The combination of a commercial farm environment with a research-focused and educational mission has provided a unique platform for hands-on learning and experimentation.
Having access to these facilities has allowed me to build up a wealth of practical knowledge and experience in a relatively short time. The chance to work in real-world, commercially oriented farm settings while contributing to cutting-edge research has been instrumental in shaping my expertise and preparing me for a future in agricultural science.
Newcastle is a great city - everything is in walkable distance.
Anisah's thoughts on...
Choosing Newcastle
I completed my master programme from Newcastle University back in 2015, where I had a positive experience and incredible support from the staff and academic here. I believe these are instrumental to academic success. Hence, I am excited to return to Newcastle University for a doctoral programme. Additionally, back during my application process, I also received encouraging and helpful guidance from my now supervisor in supporting my plan to pursue my research interest.
Pastoral Support for PGR's
Being an international student, I have found support from the various societies in the university. I am proud to be part of Brunei Student Society and Islamic Society (ISoc) at Newcastle University. Having community support makes a big difference in helping me feel a sense of belonging. This is exceptionally important in supporting my overall well-being and helping me navigating daily life away from home in a positive was.
Advice to prospective students
My advice is to carefully select the right supervisor, as the supervisor-supervisee relationship can have a significant impact on how rewarding your PhD journey will be, regardless of your research area. My supervisor once said to me, “I will offer my guidance and support, but you should not expect me to hold your hand throughout this journey”, and I truly appreciate this approach. It has given me space to grow and develop my independence as a researcher, while still feeling supported whenever I need guidance. It is also helpful to talk to current PGRs or postdocs in your research field to get a clear sense of what to expect in the journey.
I wish I had fully understood that a PhD is a long journey, not a race. It’s easy to get discouraged when things don’t go as planned or when progress feels slow. But I’ve learned to be kind with myself, keep focus, and trust that with persistence, I’ll eventually reach the end of the journey.
I love how interdisciplinary and dynamic my research programme is.
Sophie's thoughts on...
Choosing Newcastle
I completed my Masters through the University of Edinburgh The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies with my supervisor Dr Fritha Langford. So when Dr Langford moved to Newcastle University I approached Newcastle University about doing my PhD with Dr Helen Rogers from the School of Dental Sciences.
Their research programme
I am based in Australia doing my research Australia-wide on Merino sheep with the assistance of the Australian Merino Sire Evaluation Association. But as this is an interdisciplinary research involving dental studies and the welfare and production of sheep I am so fortunate to have access to both the Agriculture and Dental Schools. My favourite thing would be the challenge of doing something new, learning about sheeps teeth and what and how the disorders may affect them and what the future challenges may be. It is always exciting working on new areas but at the same time, developing an understanding of previous research and current research has been so important.
Advice to prospective students
Develop a 'study group' even one that you might not even study with, just get some friends to meet every few months and check in and set some goals and see how you are going. I think that has been a lifeline for me, I still have a 'study group' with my Masters friends and I speak regularly with a PhD student from another university. Its just a hello, what are your goals, how are you? Usually you are doing a PhD on a subject area that not many people have studied before, so I wouldnt give advice other than always try and set a regular time catch up with someone and set some goals and check in to say hello to a friendly voice, even if it just to talk about something not PhD related and do a friendly 'check-in'. Things will change, be flexible, embrace the challenges and believe in the journey.