PhD Sandwich Scholarship Program:
The PhD Sandwich Scholarship Program, funded by MSI Grants under USAID, is an opportunity designed to enhance the research capabilities of qualified PhD students from Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) in the USA. This program aims to improve the quality of life for smallholder rice farmers in Asia and Africa through advanced research and innovative agricultural practices. Selected students will spend part of their research tenure at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) headquarters in the Philippines or in a relevant research location.
PhD Sandwich Scholarship Program by MSI Grants under USAID
Designation:
PhD Sandwich Scholar
Research Area:
- The potential of smallholder institutions and enterprises in ensuring quality seed access, varietal scaling, and adoption (Analysis from South Asia)
- AI-based trait mapping for iron deficiency tolerance under DSR conditions
- Determinants and impact of adoption of Direct Seeded Rice technology among small scale rice farmers in TZ/KE/MZQ
- DSR technology in Kenya – Establishing cultivation technologies in irrigated ecosystems as a solution to golden apple snails
- Developing hyperspectral remote sensing models for DSR adaptation traits in different environments
- Modeling of rice carbon footprint
- Economic Analysis of Rice Technologies: Adoption, impacts, and consumer preferences
- Understanding Biology and Ecology of Weedy Rice in Changing Climate to Develop Resilient Integrated Weedy Rice Management Program for Direct-Seeded Rice Systems
Location:
International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines or designated research locations in Asia and Africa.
Eligibility/Qualification:
Applicants must:
- Be admitted to an approved course at an MSI* and have completed all PhD coursework requirements or be able to complete university registration within a maximum of 1.5 years.
- Be engaged in a field of rice science and related systems research.
- Be willing to work on any of the identified research areas.
- Have endorsement from their university supervisor (if already enrolled and applying for a sandwich program).
- Possess adequate English language proficiency.
- Be no more than 35 years old at the time of application.
Job Description:
Selected PhD Sandwich Scholars will conduct research under the supervision of their MSI university supervisors and IRRI scientists for up to 1.5 years. The scholars will focus on local research issues that contribute to global knowledge in rice science, with the goal of addressing farmers’ needs within national priorities and a global context. The program will select and award six students, each working on a chosen research topic.
How to Apply:
Qualified applicants should complete the online application form provided through the application link. The application must include all necessary documents and endorsements from university supervisors.
Benefits:
The scholarship covers:
- Roundtrip airfare and travel expenses
- Stipends
- Medical and accident insurance
- Laptop computer allowance
- Research support
- Additional training expenses for language proficiency and computer literacy, if necessary.
Last Date to Apply:
August 31, 2024
