Applications are being invited for a University College Dublin (UCD) Teagasc Walsh scholarship research project focused on the impact of sudden farm deaths and injuries.
The project, entitled “Shouldering the Burden: Understanding the economic and social impacts of sudden farm deaths and traumatic injuries on farm enterprises, families and communities”, is due to commence in January, or earlier if possible.
The PhD Scholarship is a joint research project between Teagasc and UCD.
Research
UCD said that farming is recognised as a dangerous occupation with high levels of both fatal and non-fatal injuries.
Much of the research carried out in this area to date has focused on understanding occupational risks and developing preventive actions.
Considerably less research has been undertaken to explore the economic and social impacts of deaths and injuries for farm businesses, households and the wider farming community.
UCD said that the absence of this knowledge hinders the development of appropriate supports to farm households and the wider farming community impacted by serious injuries and sudden death.
The qualitative research would consist of interviews and, where appropriate, focus groups with those who have experienced an injury or families impacted by sudden death of the farm holder, to assess the impact on them and their farm business.
UCD said that this approach responds to national and international strategic goals and priorities regarding farmer health, safety and wellbeing, and complements research being undertaken as part of the Teagasc led, Horizon Europe funded SafeHabitus project.
The university said that the project is flexible and open to changes of emphasis depending on the selected student’s interests and background.
Student
Applicants for the research project should have a good primary degree or Masters of Science (MSc) in a relevant discipline, such as agricultural science, agricultural education and extension, behavioural science, sociology or geography.
The successful candidate should be highly self-motivated and prepared for field work, data analysis, reporting and publication of findings at conferences and industry meetings.
The university said that fluent English language skills and a full EU driving license are essential.
The selected student will be jointly located between Teagasc Ashtown and UCD working under the supervision of Dr. Sinéad Flannery from UCD and Dr. David Meredith of Teagasc, with additional advice being provided by a project advisory team.
Funding will be awarded to the student who will complete the scholarship. The current rate is a stipend of €25,000 per annum, plus a contribution to fees up to a maximum of €6,000 per annum.
Applications, including a CV and a short research/personal statement, should be sent to Dr. Meredith and Dr. Flannery by August 30, 2024.