Agricultural and Food Sciences - Research, MPhil-PhD
Entry requirementsEntry Requirements Each case is considered on its merits. As a guide: for PhD direct, a Master's degree by research in a relevant field is required; for registration for MPhil with the possibility for transfer to PhD, a first or second class honours degree or equivalent is usually required. For MPhil, a third class honours degree supported by academic referees is generally required. It is permissible for students registered for the degree of MPhil only to apply for transfer to PhD on submission of a full progress report at the time of application for transfer
Academic titleAgricultural and Food Sciences - Research, MPhil/PhD
Course descriptionThe Natural Resources Institute (NRI) is a specialised multidisciplinary research organisation within the University of Greenwich. The Institute received the Queen's Anniversary Prize for its research activities on food security in the developing world.
Much of NRI's research work is concerned with natural resources, agriculture and social development in developing countries, although there is an expanding portfolio of activities in Europe and other industrialised countries. The Institute provides a thriving environment for MPhil and PhD students. Each of NRI's groups has a strong portfolio of research activities, of which students form an important and integral part.
The Sustainable Agriculture Group works on the development worldwide of appropriate cost-effective and sustainable approaches to controlling pests, diseases and weeds that affect crop production. Use of control methods involving no (or very low) chemical residues is increasing in importance in our work, especially for export crops.
The Plant, Animal and Human Health Group comprises researchers who share a common interest in the many species of airborne pollen and spores, insects, ticks and rodents that cause injury to their hosts as well as transmit diseases. Research is undertaken in the UK, using state-of-the-art molecular laboratories, insectary and glasshouse facilities at NRI, and also overseas. Particularly strong areas of research interest include the epidemiology of insect-borne virus diseases, molecular diagnostics, pest and disease modelling, aerobiology and biometeorology, migrant pests, medical and veterinary entomology and integrated pest management.
The Food Management and Marketing Group works on commodity management and food safety of cereals, grains, root crops, perishables and other crops. The group works with all aspects of the operations of the food industry including, for example, storage, post-harvest technology, quality analysis and management, compliance with food standards, food processing and value addition.
NRI's work provides many opportunities for postgraduates to be involved in multidisciplinary projects. We can offer full-time or part-time registration, with students based on our campus in Medway or continuing to be based in their home countries, or some combination.
Career Options
Postgraduate research students from NRI have a good record of finding employment within their specific technical discipline or in the field of international development