The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is offering Postgraduate Science Scholarships for Masters and PhD candidates engaged in primary industry research in New Zealand.
MPI food and regulatory policy director Ruth Shinoda says the scholarship will build science and technology capability within the primary industries.
"Our aim with this scholarship scheme is to encourage Masters and PhD students to pursue research within the primary industries, particularly where there are research gaps, as outlined in the Primary sector science roadmap," says Ms Shinoda.
"It's an exciting time in the primary industries, from genetics to measuring and managing ecosystem impacts, to consumer and market insights, there's a number of areas where we know we need to strengthen our understanding.
"This scholarship scheme is an investment in the future of our primary industries. Innovation in this sector is more important than ever, so it's vital our researchers in New Zealand are working on filling our knowledge gaps.
"Successful recipients will have the unique opportunity to work with MPI staff to get practical, frontline experience alongside their academic pursuits," Ms Shinoda says.
The total value for each Masters scholarship will be up to $12,000 and the total value for each PhD scholarship will be up to $50,000. Apart from funding, scholarship recipients will have the opportunity to receive co-supervision or mentoring from one or more of MPI's subject matter experts.
The deadline for applications is 5pm, 12 March 2018.
Scholarship winners will be announced in June 2018.