The Department of Food and Resource Economics (IFRO) at the University of Copenhagen is now inviting applications for fully funded PhD fellow positions starting 1 August 2026 or later. These positions offer an exceptional opportunity to pursue advanced research in environmental economics, food systems, sustainability transitions, and global development at one of Europe’s leading universities.

If you are seeking a fully funded PhD in environmental economics, food policy, sustainability transitions, or global development, the Department of Food and Resource Economics at the University of Copenhagen offers a highly competitive and internationally recognized research environment.

Application deadline: 19 April 2026 (23:59 GMT+2)
Start date: 1 August 2026
Employment type: Full-time

About IFRO – Department of Food and Resource Economics

IFRO conducts both basic and applied social science research. The department is deeply engaged in interdisciplinary collaboration at national and international levels and contributes to education and public sector advisory services.

Researchers at IFRO work on pressing global challenges including:

• Climate change mitigation and adaptation
• Sustainable food systems
• Natural resource management
• Environmental regulation
• Global agricultural markets
• Biodiversity conservation

IFRO values diversity and strongly encourages applicants from underrepresented backgrounds.

Research Areas for PhD Scholarships

PhD fellowships are available within four major research groups:

1. Environment and Natural Resources

This area includes:

• Environmental valuation
• Climate change economics and policy
• Behavioural economics
• Natural resource management (forestry, fisheries, aquaculture)
• Biodiversity conservation
• Environmental governance and ethics
• Economic regulation of environmental externalities

2. Production, Markets, and Policy

Topics include:

• Agricultural and food economics
• Production economics and efficiency analysis
• Sustainability transitions
• Trade agreements and global food trade
• Innovation studies
• Agri-tech economics and regulation
• Business and management in food systems

3. Consumption, Bioethics, and Regulation

Research themes include:

• Food economics and consumer behaviour
• Public health economics
• Food law and policy
• Environmental sociology
• Ethics in animal husbandry and veterinary practices
• Regulation of food systems and natural resources

4. Global Development

Focus areas include:

• Agricultural commodities and value chains
• Rural livelihoods and environmental reliance
• Climate adaptation and renewable energy
• Forestry and conservation
• Indigenous territories and resource conflicts
• Urbanisation and social movements

Applicants are encouraged to explore IFRO’s faculty profiles and publications before submitting their application.

Who Should Apply?

Applicants must hold an MSc degree related to one of the thematic areas, with outstanding academic performance and strong English skills.

The department will assess candidates based on:

• Academic excellence
• Research experience
• Publications (if any)
• Relevant professional background
• Quality of the proposed non-binding research idea

You are encouraged to submit a brief research proposal (maximum three pages) demonstrating your ability to formulate a strong research question. Final project topics are decided in dialogue after recruitment.

Two PhD Study Options

Depending on your educational background, you may apply under one of two tracks:

Option A: Regular PhD Programme (3 Years – 5+3 Scheme)

For applicants who already hold a Master’s degree equivalent to a Danish MSc.

• Full-time employment for up to three years
• Enrollment in the Faculty of Science PhD School
• Salary according to Danish academic agreements

Option B: Integrated MSc and PhD Programme (3+5 Scheme)

For applicants holding a Bachelor’s degree equivalent to a Danish BSc but not yet a Master’s degree.

• Up to five-year integrated programme
• Combination of MSc studies and PhD enrollment
• Financial support via Danish state education grant (SU) plus salary for teaching duties
• Transition to full PhD salary after MSc completion

Both tracks require successful enrollment at the Faculty of Science PhD School at the University of Copenhagen. Global food systems are under pressure from climate change, biodiversity loss, geopolitical instability, and sustainability demands. Research in food and resource economics directly contributes to:

• Climate-smart agriculture
• Sustainable market transitions
• Policy design for green growth
• Ethical and socially responsible food systems
• Global development strategies

With increasing global investment in sustainability and environmental policy, expertise in these fields is in high demand across academia, government, and industry.

PhD Responsibilities

All PhD fellows will:

• Conduct an independent research project under supervision
• Complete approximately 30 ECTS of PhD coursework
• Participate in international research environments
• Undertake a research stay abroad
• Contribute to teaching and dissemination
• Publish in high-impact journals or prepare a monograph
• Write and defend a PhD thesis

Students in the integrated programme must also complete the MSc degree requirements.

Research Environment and Career Development

IFRO offers:

• Strong interdisciplinary collaboration
• International research networks
• Opportunities for policy impact
• Close engagement with sustainability and climate policy debates
• A supportive and innovative academic culture

The University of Copenhagen is part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU) and ranks among Europe’s top institutions.

Graduates from IFRO’s PhD programme pursue careers in:

• Academia
• International organizations
• Government ministries
• Environmental agencies
• Agricultural and food industries
• Global development institutions

Application Requirements

Submit your application in English and include:

• One-page motivation letter
• Academic CV
• Certified diplomas and transcripts
• Publication list (if available)
• Reference letters (if available)
• Optional research proposal (max. 3 pages)
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Deadline: 19 April 2026
Interviews: Late May to mid-June 2026

Applicants may be subject to security screening related to international research collaborations. For specific information about the PhD fellowship, please contact the Deputy Head of Department for Research, Mette Asmild, at +45 3533 6886, meas@ifro.ku.dk, or the Head of Department, Per Svejstrup, at +45 3533 2271, psh@ifro.ku.dk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are these PhD positions fully funded?

Yes. All PhD fellowships are fully funded according to Danish academic salary agreements or through the integrated funding model.

Can international students apply?

Yes. Applicants from all nationalities are welcome.

Is a research proposal mandatory?

It is encouraged but non-binding. It strengthens your application by demonstrating your research potential.

What is the difference between the 5+3 and 3+5 schemes?

The 5+3 scheme is for candidates with a Master’s degree. The 3+5 scheme integrates Master’s and PhD studies for candidates with a Bachelor’s degree.

Is physical presence required?

Yes. Regular physical presence at IFRO is expected, although some flexibility and remote work options are available.

What are the main evaluation criteria?

Academic excellence, relevant research experience, publications, language skills, and overall fit with IFRO’s research themes.