The PhD Sandwich Scholarship Program, funded by MSI Grants under USAID, is an opportunity designed to enhance the research capabilities of qualified PhD students from Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) in the USA. This program aims to improve the quality of life for smallholder rice farmers in Asia and Africa through advanced research and innovative agricultural practices. Selected students will spend part of their research tenure at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) headquarters in the Philippines or in a relevant research location.
SCHOLARSHIP AT A GLANCE:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding Agency | MSI Grants under USAID |
| Purpose | Enhance research capabilities of PhD students from MSIs to improve the quality of life for smallholder rice farmers in Asia and Africa |
| Research Focus | Rice science and related systems research |
| Eligibility | – Must be admitted to an approved course at an MSI – Completed all PhD coursework or able to register within 1.5 years – Engaged in rice science research – Endorsement from university supervisor – Adequate English proficiency – No more than 35 years old |
| Program Duration | Up to 1.5 years |
| Locations | International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) headquarters in the Philippines or other relevant research locations |
| Number of Awards | 6 students |
| Scholarship Covers | – Roundtrip airfare and travel expenses – Stipends – Medical and accident insurance – Laptop computer allowance – Research support – Additional training expenses (language proficiency and computer literacy, if needed) |
| Application Deadline | August 31, 2024 |
| Application Requirements | Online application form, necessary documents, and endorsements from university supervisors |
Fact About Sandwich Scholarship Program
- Global Impact Focus: This program isn’t just about academic advancement; it’s designed to revolutionize rice farming practices in Asia and Africa, potentially transforming the lives of millions of smallholder farmers through cutting-edge agricultural research.
- Prestigious Research Partnerships: Selected scholars get the unique opportunity to conduct part of their research at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines, a global leader in rice research and innovation. This prestigious partnership ensures access to world-class facilities and expertise.
- Support for Minority Serving Institutions: The program specifically targets PhD students from Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) in the USA, providing these students with invaluable resources and opportunities to advance their research and contribute to global agricultural solutions.
- Cross-Continental Collaboration: By spending time in both the USA and the Philippines, scholars experience a rich exchange of knowledge and practices across continents, fostering a truly international perspective on agricultural research.
- Advanced Research Opportunities: Participants are immersed in cutting-edge research that could lead to groundbreaking agricultural technologies and methods, positioning them at the forefront of global efforts to improve food security and sustainability.
Eligibility For 2024 Sandwich Scholarship Program, International Rice Research Institute
- Applicants must:
- Be admitted to an approved course at an MSI* and have completed all PhD coursework requirements or be able to complete university registration within a maximum of 1.5 years.
- Be engaged in a field of rice science and related systems research.
- Be willing to work on any of the identified research areas.
- Have endorsement from their university supervisor (if already enrolled and applying for a sandwich program).
- Possess adequate English language proficiency.
- Be no more than 35 years old at the time of application.
Description For 2024 Sandwich Scholarship Program, International Rice Research Institute
Selected PhD Sandwich Scholars will conduct research under the supervision of their MSI university supervisors and IRRI scientists for up to 1.5 years. The scholars will focus on local research issues that contribute to global knowledge in rice science, with the goal of addressing farmers’ needs within national priorities and a global context. The program will select and award six students, each working on a chosen research topic.
Rewards For 2024 Sandwich Scholarship Program, International Rice Research Institute
- The scholarship covers:
- Roundtrip airfare and travel expenses
- Stipends
- Medical and accident insurance
- Laptop computer allowance
- Research support
- Additional training expenses for language proficiency and computer literacy, if necessary.
How To Apply For 2024 Sandwich Scholarship Program, International Rice Research Institute
Qualified applicants should complete the online application form provided through the application link. The application must include all necessary documents and endorsements from university supervisors.
Last Date to Apply: August 31, 2024