Food and Agribusiness Doctoral Training Centre established on the Central Coast

As the first centre of its kind on the Central Coast, the Food and Agribusiness DTC will provide a platform for inter-disciplinary research and training in an industry that has strong regional ties, and is committed to collaboration and innovation through education and research.

DTCs support cohorts of PhD candidates grouped around a common research theme, with a strong focus on embedded industry engagement.

Professor Alan Broadfoot, Executive Director of NIER, said the candidates would gain vital skills and valuable connections that would hold them in good stead to enter the workforce in their chosen industry upon graduating.

“Candidates will develop transferable and industry-ready skills, as well as gain valuable exposure to core and peripheral research,” Prof Broadfoot said.

“The DTC will provide pathways into multiple industries across the sector, with opportunities for our candidates to engage and network with peak bodies and associations, and access additional professional training and support programs.

“Along with being a relevant way for our candidates to progress their research, the DTC will ensure capabilities, experience and collaboration are used to deliver outcomes that matter for our partners and communities.”

The DTC will focus on four key areas in the Food and Agribusiness space: Product Science, Climate Resilience and Sustainability, Advanced Technology, and Market Access.

As part of the University’s Strategic Plan 2020 – 2025, industry engagement and work integrated learning will be central to the DTC’s function.

Industry partners aiding the candidates’ research include NSW Department of Primary Industries, Hort Innovation, Hunter Local Land Services, Verdich Oysters, First Creek Wines and Tamburlaine Organic Wines.

“Our industry partners will benefit from having access to the University’s academic excellence and world-class facilities, as they investigate solutions to sector challenges, seek a competitive advantage and generally advance their business,” Dr Tamara Bucher, Academic Convenor of the Food and Agribusiness DTC, said.

“Perhaps most importantly, our partners have the opportunity to be involved with and invested in the next generation of food and agribusiness professionals – our candidates – who can offer new insights based on their own research, creating a truly mutually beneficial relationship.”

Food and Agribusiness is the second DTC established through NIER, joining the Advanced METS (Mining Equipment, Technology and Services) DTC.