Teagasc has announced that applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Walsh Scholars Programme.

The programme offers 20 fully-funded postgraduate research opportunities, including 18 PhD and two research masters opportunities.

The programme is aimed at graduates seeking to develop to doctoral level through "structured, high-quality postgraduate training".

In the 2026 intake, 17 of the PhD opportunities are funded by Teagasc, which the authority said reflects significant investment in developing highly skilled research graduates to address "priority challenges" across agriculture, food, environment, climate and rural development. 

Teagasc said that the Walsh Scholars Programme enables graduates to undertake fully funded PhD or research masters study while contributing to research with "real-world national and international relevance".

Projects under the programme can span key areas including sustainable agriculture and food systems; climate and environmental science; grassland and livestock systems; crop production; soil and nutrient management; food innovation; rural development; and farmer wellbeing.

Scholars will be based in Teagasc’s national research centres and partner universities, and will be jointly supervised by Teagasc researchers and academic staff in leading Irish and international universities.

The programme will be supported by access to facilities, strong university partnerships, and engagement with national and international research networks.

Walsh Scholars also benefit from a structured doctoral training framework that includes opportunities for international collaboration and conference participation, alongside training in communication, leadership and problem-solving, according to Teagasc.

Jane Kavanagh, head of the research development and Walsh Scholars at Teagasc, said: "The Walsh Scholars Programme gives graduates an exceptional opportunity to develop to doctoral level within a structured and supportive training environment.

"Through strong university partnerships and international engagement, scholars build the skills and confidence needed to progress as researchers and professionals in the agri-food sector," Kavanagh added.

Pat Dillon, director of research at Teagasc, said: "Developing a strong pipeline of research talent is essential to the future of Ireland’s agri-food sector.

"The Walsh Scholars Programme plays a key role in supporting high-quality postgraduate training that delivers both scientific excellence and real-world impact," Dillon added.

Graduates interested in pursuing PhD or research masters study through the Walsh Scholars Programme are encouraged to apply, with all 2026 opportunities advertised centrally and full details provided on each project, supervision team, training supports and funding.

Most applications close on Tuesday, March 18, and most successful applicants will commence their studies in September 2026 as part of the 2026 Walsh Scholars intake.