Summary: A funded PhD opportunity at the University of Cambridge, in collaboration with Hutchinsons and the charity LEAF. The research focuses on designing an AI-driven, human-centred decision support system that uses multimodal sensor and commodity data to provide bespoke, actionable advice to crop farmers for profitable and environmentally restorative agriculture.
Cambridge PhD Studentship: AI for Sustainable Agriculture, University of Cambridge, UK
Scholarship Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Qualification Type | PhD |
| Institution | University of Cambridge (Department of Engineering) |
| Funding For | UK Students (Home Students) |
| Funding Amount | Covers tuition fees and a stipend |
| Hours | Full Time |
| Reference | NM50623 |
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Subject Area: Agriculture, Food & Veterinary, Computer Sciences, Software Engineering, Engineering & Technology.
Location: Cambridge (South East England), United Kingdom.
Eligibility:
- Open to eligible home students (UK Students).
- Applicants must have (or expect to obtain by the start date) at least a good 2.1 degree in Engineering or Computer Science.
- Strong programming and software skills.
- Awareness of machine learning theory and techniques.
- Experience working with large multimodal datasets.
- Interest in human-computer interaction and human-centred system design.
- Strong communication and organisational skills.
- Note: Prior knowledge of farming practices is advantageous but not strictly required.
Scholarship Description: This project aims to leverage technology and data-driven decisions to support resilient and productive agriculture. By automatically collecting sensor data, crop yield reports, weather predictions, and global commodity prices, the successful candidate will work alongside experts from Hutchinsons and LEAF to develop an AI-bestowed system. The ultimate goal is to generate individualized insights for farmers, allowing them to confidently implement profitable and sustainable farming practices.
How to Apply:
- Prepare a two-page CV and a one-page covering letter outlining your suitability for the role.
- Email your application directly to Per Ola Kristensson (
pok21@cam.ac.uk) and John Dudley (jjd50@cam.ac.uk). - You must include “[CAM-GROWING-AI]” in the subject line of your email.
- Next Steps: Interviews will take place during the week of Monday, August 24, 2026. Preferred candidates will then be asked to formally apply via the University’s Postgraduate application portal by August 28, 2026 (a £20 application fee applies).
Last Date: Email applications must arrive no later than 5:00 pm BST on Friday, 21st August 2026. (Note: Applications may close early if the position is filled before this date.)
