FibreWatch: Aerial Sensing and Logistics Modelling for Sustainable Fibre Farming

Apply and key information

This project is funded by:

Department for the Economy (DfE)

Summary

FibreWatch tackles sustainability in fibre crop production by the use drones, sensors, and AI to monitor flax and hemp fields, mapping plant health, soil moisture and nutrient status. Hemp grows rapidly and can capture substantial CO₂ in its biomass, yet typically requires very low fertilizer and pesticide inputs.

Flax also fits this model: it is often grown in rotation, needs little to no irrigation or chemicals, and its entire stalk is used.

This data-driven approach helps farmers reduce water and fertilizer use, lowering emissions and improving yields. Working with UK and US teams, you’ll build “digital twins” to test management strategies before going to the field.

Through this hands-on project, the student will apply drone imaging, AI analytics, and simulation tools to support more sustainable and circular agriculture.

They will collaborate with farmers, engineers, and policy experts to create solutions that improve on-farm decision-making and supply chain traceability.

The project offers a unique opportunity to develop interdisciplinary skills in agri-tech, environmental science, transport systems, and data analysis while contributing to real-world climate resilience in rural communities.

Ideal candidates will have a passion for sustainability and innovation and an interest in applying technology to solve pressing agricultural and environmental challenges.

The project includes an international visit to the partner, Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI), where the PhD researcher will analyse the carbon footprint of transporting fibre crops from farm to processing facilities.

This unique collaboration combines agricultural data with transport emissions modelling, linking the sustainability of farming systems with cleaner logistics and supply chains.

It strengthens UK–US research cooperation and offers the student valuable global experience working with world-leading experts in sustainable mobility and environmental systems.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

First Class Honours (1st) Degree
Masters at 65%
Work experience relevant to the proposed project
Publications - peer-reviewed

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

Department for the Economy (DfE)

This scholarship will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000* (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance). A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum is also available.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a UK National, or

Have settled status, or

Have pre-settled status, or

Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or

be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period