Project Overview
About the Position
Cranfield University is offering an EPSRC-supported doctorate on how legumes affect nitrogen availability in regenerative arable rotations.
The research connects soil processes with crop performance and greenhouse-gas mitigation.
Official Project Title
Understanding legume nitrogen dynamics and their implications for greenhouse gas mitigation in regenerative agriculture
Research Focus and Methods
Combine field, laboratory and controlled-environment experiments to quantify nitrogen fixation, mineralisation, crop uptake and emissions. Compare detailed nitrogen accounting with conventional tests and investigate fertiliser-replacement potential.
Research Training and Development
A Dundee placement with the James Hutton Institute connects the project with long-term cropping trials.
Funding and Duration
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Award | PhD studentship; selection is competitive |
| Programme | EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award |
| Duration | Three years full-time |
| Stipend | Advertised annual tax-free bursary up to £24,500 for three years. |
| Tuition and research support | EPSRC/Cranfield fee support and stipend. The advert explicitly quantifies Home-fee coverage; Overseas applicants should confirm their full fee award. |
| Award conditions | Selection is competitive; an advertised project does not guarantee a studentship. |
| Stipend amount status | The advert publishes a bursary of up to £24,500 annually. This maximum is not confirmation of an individual award amount. |
Eligibility and English Language
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicant eligibility | Home and Overseas applicants may apply, but Overseas-funded places are limited. |
| Academic preparation | First- or second-class UK honours degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as soil/environmental science, agronomy, plant science or ecology. |
| Project interests and skills | Interest in fieldwork, laboratory analysis and quantitative methods such as R; training is provided. |
| English language | Meet the host university’s English-language admission rules. An approved alternative or exemption may apply; IELTS is not universally mandatory. |
About Cranfield University
Cranfield University is a specialist postgraduate university in England focused on technology and management. It offers master's programmes and doctoral research in areas including aerospace, manufacturing, transport, energy and business. Its research facilities and industry partnerships support practical investigations, connecting advanced study with professional applications and challenges across different sectors.
Official website: https://www.cranfield.ac.uk/
Application Dates and Location
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Application deadline | 11 November 2026 |
| Start date | 25 January 2027 |
| Research location | Cranfield, United Kingdom |
Contact
- Email: wilfred.otten@cranfield.ac.uk
- Email: emily.guest@cranfield.ac.uk
Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be sent to the contacts above or raised through the channel given on the official announcement page.
Important Notes
- Application deadline: 11 November 2026 - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
- Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
- Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.
How to Apply
- Complete the online application form linked from the advert and quote CRAN-0108.
- Upload all documents requested by Cranfield’s research-degree application checklist.
Supervisors and Contact
| Supervisor | Role | |
|---|---|---|
| Professor Wilfred Otten | Primary Supervisor | wilfred.otten@cranfield.ac.uk |
| Dr Emily Guest | Co-supervisor | emily.guest@cranfield.ac.uk |
Application Preparation
For application preparation, see How to Read a PhD Job Advert: Funding, Eligibility and Application Steps, Is a PhD Funded for International Students? How to Check the Advert and How to Email a PhD Supervisor: 7 Templates and Practical Tips.
Official Link
- Official project description
- Professor Wilfred Otten: official profile
- Dr Emily Guest: official profile
Application guides
Frequently asked questions
Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.
What is the deadline for PhD in Legume Soil Nitrogen Cycling at Cranfield University, UK?
The application deadline is 11 November 2026. Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source gives neither a closing time nor a time zone.
Is PhD in Legume Soil Nitrogen Cycling at Cranfield University, UK fully funded?
This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. Up to £24,500/year.
Who is eligible to apply for PhD in Legume Soil Nitrogen Cycling at Cranfield University, UK?
This opportunity is open to applicants worldwide. Host-country status is not a requirement, although you must still satisfy the visa rules for United Kingdom. Applications are assessed by Cranfield University.
How do I apply for PhD in Legume Soil Nitrogen Cycling at Cranfield University, UK?
Applications for PhD in Legume Soil Nitrogen Cycling at Cranfield University, UK are submitted directly to Cranfield University through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.
Is an English proficiency test required for PhD in Legume Soil Nitrogen Cycling at Cranfield University, UK?
Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for United Kingdom are published by the provider.
What study level does PhD in Legume Soil Nitrogen Cycling at Cranfield University, UK offer?
This listing is offered at PhD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.
Hosted by
Cranfield University
Cranfield University is a specialist postgraduate university in England focused on technology and management. It offers master's programmes and doctoral research in areas including aerospace, manufacturing, transport, energy and business. Its research facilities and industry partnerships support practical investigations, connecting advanced study with professional applications and challenges across different sectors.
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