PhD fellowship in agricultural economics Rural Economy Research Centre, Teagasc & UCD

PhD Studentship description

This project evaluates the economic costs and benefits associated with alternative management practises of Genetically Modified (GM) crop technology. Specific research questions relating to the following issues will be examined: (i) a comparison of the costs of co-existence accruing to conventional crop producers and the potential benefits accruing to GM adopting producers (ii) factors affecting farmer’s attitudes to GM technology adoption and (iii) consumer willingness to pay for GM versus non GM food end products. This study will provide valuable lessons for policy by deepening our understanding of the economics of co-existence of conventional and GM crop technology.

The PhD student will be based part-time at the Rural Economy Research Centre, Teagasc and the Sustainable Agriculture and Food Business Section, School of Agriculture, Food Science & Veterinary Medicine at University College Dublin. There is also the possibility that the student may spend a semester at a US university collaborating with
experts in the area of consumer willingness to pay studies in relation to GM technology.

Requirements • Degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Science or related discipline • An interest in applied microeconomics in particular agricultural or environmental economics • Excellent quantitative skills. Conditions of employment Stipend: €21,000 per annum (from which tuition fees must be paid) Duration of the contract: 3 years beginning September, 2008

Additional Information Additional information about the vacancy can be obtained from: Dr. Fiona Thorne Email: Fiona.thorne @ teagasc.ie

Application Interested candidates should either post or email their CVs before June 13th to Dr. Fiona Thorne, RERC, Teagasc, Malahide Road, Kinsealy, Dublin 17, Fiona.thorne @ teagasc.ie Deadline: June 13th, 2008