Ngā hua o te rā: Solar agrivoltaics and kūmara futures

Overview

This PhD explores how solar farms can also be foodscapes, producing renewable energy and kai. You will investigate the growth of kūmara (Ipomoea batatas), a crop of deep cultural and nutritional significance. Historically cultivated throughout Aotearoa, including Te Waipounamu (South Island), kūmara is now produced commercially mainly in the warmer soils of Te Tai Tokerau (Northland). This project will test new approaches to expand production and create more resilient systems under changing climates.

At Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki | Lincoln University’s solar farm, you will assess crop growth and soil conditions in the diverse light and temperature zones created beneath solar panels. Alongside this, you will trial biodegradable fibre mats made from harakeke and wool, dyed with natural plant extracts. These mats, inspired by mātauranga Māori methods of fibre use and dyeing, aim to improve soil warmth and crop establishment while replacing plastic mulch. Mātauranga Māori approaches such as maramataka and place-based adaptation will inform the design and interpretation of trials alongside other horticulture methods.

You will gain experience in field trials, soil and climate monitoring, crop physiology, and kaupapa Māori research. Working within a supportive, interdisciplinary supervisory team, you will also connect with growers, mana whenua, and the Food Transitions 2050 cohort. This PhD will suit a motivated student with interests in sustainable agriculture, Indigenous innovation, and climate-resilient food systems.

Value

The scholarship includes an annual tax-free stipend of $32,650 p.a. (paid in fortnightly instalments) plus tuition fees, for three years.

Closing date

31 January 2026

Selection criteria

The student must meet the entry requirements for a doctoral programme at Lincoln University without any bridging programmes required.

Availability

The student must be domiciled in the Canterbury region for the duration of their PhD. 

The scholarship will begin on July 1, 2026, but the selection process will be completed in February 2026.

Further information and how to apply

This is a Food Transitions 2050 scholarship. The Food Transitions 2050 website has further information about how to apply:

Available PhD Positions — Food Transitions 2050 website

For further information about the Joint Postgraduate School Food Transitions 2050 initiative, please see:

Joint Postgraduate School: Food Transitions 2050

For overseas applicants

For overseas applicants, please visit Immigration New Zealand website to review the latest health and visa requirements for visiting and working in New Zealand. 

Note that PhD degrees in NZ are research-only degrees usually lasting three years (i.e. there is no course-work component).