A 3-month PhD placement (possible extension) supporting the new Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) is available. It explores how horticultural crops and cropping systems can act as temporary habitats, boosting biodiversity, soil health and ecosystem benefits without reducing food production. You’ll work with policymakers, academics and stakeholders to review evidence on biodiversity impacts of different crops, identify biodiversity-friendly cropping combinations, and help shape flexible, evidence-based habitat actions for farmers in Wales.
🔍 Ideal for PhD students interested in:
• Agroecology, biodiversity or horticulture
• Evidence-based policy
• Sustainable farming systems
📅 Start: January 2026
📩 Apply: CV + cover letter to researchplacements@gov.wales
(UK-based PhD students, supervisor approval required)