Edge Hill Universiry - Funded Masters of Research - with Engage Crop Solutions

Graduate School

We’re here to create and harness knowledge, to deliver opportunity for everyone. 

About the Opportunity

About the Opportunity

Edge Hill University (EHU) in collaboration with Engage Crop Solutions invites applications for an exciting MRes opportunity focused on testing an innovative advanced technology designed to enhance water retention in soils and prevention of water loss to arid environmental conditions. This research project aims to quantify the secondary effects of this product on overall soil and plant performance and the long terms effects on soils and applied plants/crops.

 About The Research Project

Managing water loss, optimising water/balance and improving soil quality is essential for sustainable crop maintenance and soil restoration in conservation efforts. Healthy soils promote optimal plant growth, enhance water and nutrient retention, and contribute to ecosystem resilience. 

 The selected candidate will have the opportunity to join a dynamic research team at EHU and Engage Crop Solutions for a one-year project aimed at investigating the impact of an application-based technology, utilised within the agricultural and horticulture sector. Originally designed to minimise water loss from soils, this technology is now believed to yield additional indirect benefits for soil and plant health, which are particularly relevant to growers and conservation practitioners. These secondary effects hold the potential for significant benefits, particularly in the context of degraded soils, to enhance ecosystems. However, our current understanding of these effects lacks detailed quantitative insight. 

 The project entails a comprehensive approach, involving field and laboratory experiments, as well as the analysis of soil and plant samples in differing environmental regions and soil types. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with industry experts to assess the effectiveness of the technology on soil structure, texture, bioactivity and plant health. Through this interdisciplinary research endeavour, we aim to unravel the intricacies of the technologies impact, paving the way for informed decision-making and sustainable agricultural practices.

 The student will be responsible for:

• Designing and conducting field experiments to assess the impact of this product on soil and plant health.
• Collecting and analysing soil and plant samples using advanced laboratory techniques and possibly development of new methodology for testing.
• Collaborating with industry partners and stakeholders to interpret research findings and develop practical recommendations.
• Presenting research findings at conferences and preparing scientific publications for a peer-reviewed journal.

Details of funding

The successful applicant will receive:

• Payment of 1-year, full-time MRes tuition fees (£5,800)

Applicant Eligibility

This opportunity is open to UK based applicants eligible for home fees who meet the following eligibility criteria:

• - Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or related fields.
• - Strong research background with experience in field and/or laboratory experimentation and data analysis.
• - Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• - Passion for sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.

At Edge Hill University we value the benefits a rich and diverse workforce brings to our community and therefore welcome applications from all sections of society.

How to submit your application

 In the first instance please complete the online application form via 

 https://qpl.edgehill.ac.uk/apex_qlive/f?p=PV_ONLINE_APP:101::::APP:APP_COURSE_INSTANCE:711606871

 Once you have done this, please send the following items in one email to graduateschooladmissions@edgehill.ac.uk quoting the project title in the subject of the email:

 a downloaded copy of your application form.

• a cover letter/personal statement outlining your suitability and research interests.
• a full academic CV (maximum of three A4 pages, using size 12 font) which includes the contact details of two referees.
• a copy of your qualification certificates and passport.

 Key contacts:

 Please think about the support you need and contact one of the below directly:

 Research project and supervision questions: please contact Dr Sven Batke at Sven.batke@edgehill.ac.uk. 

• MRes registration and qualification questions: please contact graduateschooladmissions@edgehill.ac.uk 

Deadlines and start date.

 Closing date: Wednesday 22^nd May 23:59

 The successful applicant will be required to start on 30^th of September 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter. This is for a full-time MRes position. 

About Us 

At Edge Hill University we believe in the life changing opportunities knowledge can create. Since 1885, we’ve been creating access to knowledge for those who may not have had the opportunity to before. 

Today, the effect we have has a far-reaching impact, not just for those who come to study here but for those who work, invest in, and live in our local communities too. So, if you’ve ever wondered if one person can make a difference, simply speak to our alumni, students, and award-winning staff.

Because for us education isn’t about how much you take in. It’s about what you take out into the world. 

Inspiring minds and changing futures since 1885, Edge Hill University is “A great success story… an institution that improves and impresses year after year” – Times Higher Education.