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About the University of Copenhagen IFRO PhD Scholarships
The Department of Food and Resource Economics (IFRO) at the University of Copenhagen is inviting applications for fully funded PhD scholarships starting on 1 August 2025 or later. IFRO is an internationally recognized research institution conducting basic and applied social science research in food, agriculture, environment, and resource economics.
Through these PhD scholarships, the department seeks to develop new scientific knowledge in areas critical to global sustainability, economic policy, and resource management. IFRO emphasizes interdisciplinary research, fostering collaborations across economic, social, and environmental sciences at both national and international levels.
Available Research Areas
The PhD scholarships will focus on one or more of the following thematic areas, which align with IFRO’s four primary research groups:
1. Environment and Natural Resources
- Environmental valuation and economic modelling
- Behavioural economics related to environmental policies
- Regulation of environmental externalities and resource use
- Climate change economics and policy
- Biodiversity conservation and natural resource management
- Sustainable fisheries, forestry, and land use planning
2. Production, Markets, and Policy
- Agricultural and food economics
- Market structure, trade agreements, and global sustainability transitions
- Innovation and technology adoption in agri-food systems
- Applied microeconomics and production economics
- Economic implications of environmental regulations
3. Consumption, Bioethics, and Regulation
- Consumer behaviour and food economics
- Public health policies related to food production and consumption
- Bioethics in animal husbandry and veterinary practices
- Regulations shaping sustainable consumption and production
4. Global Development
- Agricultural commodity trade and supply chains
- Business and development economics in rural and urban settings
- Governance and policy analysis for climate adaptation
- Renewable energy economics and sustainable urbanization
Eligibility Criteria
The IFRO PhD scholarships are designed for students who are passionate about research in the thematic areas listed above. The university encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including underrepresented groups, to promote academic inclusivity and innovation.
Other criteria include:
- A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline such as economics, environmental sciences, agricultural economics, social sciences, food policy, or related fields.
- A strong academic track record, including coursework, research, and relevant experience.
- Proficiency in English (both written and spoken) is essential.
- Prior publications, work experience, or participation in relevant research projects are an advantage.
- A non-binding research proposal (maximum 3 pages) illustrating the applicant’s interests and potential research directions is encouraged.
- The final research topic will be developed in consultation with IFRO supervisors based on the candidate’s expertise and IFRO’s ongoing research initiatives.
University of Copenhagen PhD Programme Options
The University of Copenhagen offers two pathways for PhD candidates based on their academic background:
1. Regular PhD Programme (5+3 Scheme) – 3 Years
For applicants who already hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field. This full-time PhD programme lasts for three years.
2. Integrated MSc and PhD Programme (3+5 Scheme)—Up to 5 Years
For applicants who hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline. This programme combines Master’s-level coursework with PhD research and typically lasts up to five years.
Benefits of the PhD Scholarship
Selected candidates will receive a fully funded scholarship covering:
- Full tuition waiver for the duration of the PhD.
- Monthly salary and additional allowances, following the Danish State Salary Agreement.
- Research funding to cover study materials, conference travel, and fieldwork.
- Access to world-class facilities, including research labs, databases, and computing resources.
- International research opportunities through collaborations with IFRO’s global partners.
- Mentorship and supervision by leading academics in food and resource economics.
How to Apply
Required Documents:
To apply, candidates must submit the following documents via the University of Copenhagen’s online application portal:
- Motivated application letter (maximum 1 page) outlining research interests and career goals.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic background, work experience, and research skills.
- Official transcripts and degree certificates (Bachelor’s and/or Master’s), including English translations if necessary.
- Publication list (if applicable).
- Two reference letters (optional but recommended).
- Research proposal (optional, maximum 3 pages), demonstrating the applicant’s intended research focus and methodological approach.
The University of Copenhagen is committed to diversity, equality, and fostering an inclusive research environment. All qualified applicants, regardless of nationality, gender, or background, are encouraged to apply. Please note that the deadline for applications is March 28, 2025. Late submissions will not be tolerated.
For more details and to apply, visit the official application portal via the link below.
See also:
Tokyo University Amgen Scholars Program 2025: Apply Now!
The Letten Prize 2025 for Researchers: Apply Now!
