Find out more about studying Agriculture and Food Security PhD at The University of Edinburgh? We've gathered all the key details, entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy
Easter Bush Campus
Part Time
Sep 2026
6 Year
Our research and associated education and engagement are in two broad themes – Food System Transformation and Healthy People, Healthy Planet. We especially focus on the interactions between the two.Improving the effectiveness and sustainability of agri-food systems is vital to tackling the challenges of:global population growthrapid urbanisationfood and environmental securitydiet and healthThese challenges occur in low- and middle-income countries, as well as in more industrialised nations.Achieving sustainable, healthy diets underpins many of the Sustainable Development Goals – especially those concerned with:hungerpovertyhealthgender equalityresponsible consumption and productionclimate actionWe welcome applicants whose research interests are aligned to address one or more of these challenges, and who hold the potential to develop and translate scientific advances into policy and practice.Most of our research is interdisciplinary in its approach, and we collaborate with Schools and groups across the University of Edinburgh, and with a wide range of national and international partners.Our current specific expertise spans:nutrition and health of humans, livestock, crops and soilsenvironmental and agri-food systemscrop and livestock production systemsclimate smart agricultureagricultural and natural resource economicsdevelopmentdata science and mathematical modellingthe science-policy interfacefood and land rights and law