Introduction to the FoodBioSystems Doctoral Training Programme

The FoodBioSystems Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) is a collaborative effort between seven university partners: University of Reading, Cranfield University, University of Surrey, Queen's University Belfast, Aberystwyth University, University of Lincoln, and Brunel University London. The programme aims to develop a diverse cohort of scientists and innovators with in-depth scientific knowledge, advanced technical capability, and food systems understanding. These individuals will address the challenges of sustainability, efficiency, and safety of food systems, deliver better nutrition, and strengthen the resulting health and economic resilience of society.

Programme Overview

The FoodBioSystems DTP will award a minimum of 19 salaried studentships through a competitive process. Studentships will be for four years full-time and will start in autumn 2026. The programme covers areas that span the food chain from farm to fork, including:

• Farmed animal health and welfare
• Food safety
• Lifelong health
• Human nutrition
• One health
• Precision agriculture and smart technologies
• Reducing waste
• Sustainable agricultural systems
• Understanding and exploiting genomics

Eligibility and Application

Candidates from a broad range of scientific backgrounds are encouraged to apply, including:

• Alternative food systems
• Combatting antimicrobial resistance
• Farmed animal health and welfare
• Food science and production
• Lifelong health
• Human nutrition
• One health
• Precision agriculture and smart technologies
• Reducing waste
• Sustainable agricultural systems

The application deadline is 26 January 2026, and the start date for the programme is 7 September 2026. The duration of the award is four years, and eligibility is open to UK, EU, and international students.

Funding

FoodBioSystems DTP students receive an annual tax-free stipend (salary) paid in instalments throughout the year. For 2025/26, this stipend is £22,780 (including London Allowance), and it will increase slightly each year at a rate set by UKRI. The studentship is funded by UKRI and covers stipend, fees at the Home/ROI rate, and research costs. International students will not be charged the difference between Home/ROI fees and international fees by the host university. However, costs such as visa fees, healthcare surcharge, relocation costs, and guarantor services must be found from other sources or met by the individual student.

Cranfield University's Involvement

Cranfield University will be part of five projects starting in September 2026, including:

• Sustainable pet food from potato waste: fermentation, nutrition, and consumer acceptance
• Silicon-Improved Leafy Kale (SILK): Boosting shelf life, insect resistance, odour profiles, and consumer preference
• Balancing sustainability trade-offs in the UK livestock sector through LCA-based multi-objective optimisation
• From Genomic Context to Sensor Design: Computational Identification of AMR Biomarkers in Agriculture
• Working with farmers to co-design sustainable agroforestry systems

Entry Requirements

The FoodBioSystems DTP is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). The programme seeks to build a doctoral researcher and staff body that reflects the diversity of society and encourages applications from under-represented and disadvantaged groups. Full eligibility criteria can be found on the FoodBioSystems website.

Cranfield Doctoral Network

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused, and professional study environment and become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network provides a platform for researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment, aiming to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside the Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), offers social and networking opportunities.

Research Areas

The programme focuses on various research areas, including but not limited to:

• Sustainable food systems
• Food safety and security
• Human nutrition and health
• Animal health and welfare
• Precision agriculture
• Genomics and biotechnology

These areas are designed to address the complex challenges facing the food system, from production to consumption, and to develop innovative solutions for a sustainable future.

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Overview:

Cranfield University is a postgraduate-focused institution specializing in science, technology, engineering, and management. It is renowned for its strong industry links and practical approach to education.

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Services Offered:

Cranfield University offers a wide range of services to students, including:

Careers and Employability Service:

Provides guidance and support for career planning and job searching.

IT Services:

Offers access to computer labs, software, and technical support.

Libraries:

Provides access to extensive collections of books, journals, and online resources.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Industry Links:

Cranfield University has close relationships with numerous organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.

Practical Approach to Education:

The university emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, preparing students for successful careers.

World-Class Facilities:

Cranfield boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories, workshops, and research centers.

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Academic Programs:

Cranfield University offers a variety of postgraduate programs, including:

Taught Degrees:

MSc programs in various fields, such as aerospace, energy, and management.

Research Degrees:

PhD and MPhil programs for students seeking to conduct advanced research.

Apprenticeships:

Level 7 apprenticeships for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Professional Development:

Short courses and executive development programs for individuals and organizations.

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Other:

• Cranfield University has two campuses: Cranfield Campus and Cranfield University at Shrivenham.
• The university is committed to sustainability and has a strong track record in environmental research.
• Cranfield University is ranked highly in various international rankings, including those for sustainability and engineering.