About Food and Society, MPhil - at Newcastle University

MPhil and PhD supervision covers a number of topics supported by research active academic staff. We conduct research in all areas of food and society, including subjects which require collaboration between the social and natural sciences, and translate research into policy recommendations.

Our research primarily involves food systems, food consumption and food marketing:

• consumer studies in food, food provisioning and behaviour change
• perceived risk associated with food and food production
• food supply chains and territorial development
• international political economy of food and agriculture
• risk-benefit communication
• acceptance of novel food and technologies within the value chain

Opportunities are available for postgraduate research in the following areas.

Understanding and measuring societal and individual responses to risks and benefits

• food, nutrition and healthy dietary choices
• sustainable consumption and the reduction of food waste
• food safety and authenticity throughout the supply chain
• emerging food technologies

Developing new methodologies for assessing socio-economic impacts of food risks and communication strategies and other public health interventions related to food choice

• systematic review
• evidence synthesis
• systems thinking
• Bayesian networks
• rapid evidence assessment

Employing qualitative and quantitative methodologies to understand attitudes and behaviours related to food

• microbiological food hazards
• personalised nutrition
• food authenticity
• societal and consumer responses to emerging food production technologies
• behaviour change in relation to food
• food waste

Stakeholder analysis and effectiveness of public engagement

• research agenda setting
• policy and governance, in the area of emerging food technologies
• food and agricultural policy issues

Integrating social and natural science into the development of predictive models of food security to provide evidence for policy translation in the agrifood sector.

• Bayesian networks
• systems thinking

Find out more about the work of the Agr-Food and Society research group.

Delivery

We offer a number of different routes to a research degree qualification, including full-time and part-time supervised research projects. We attract postgraduates via non-traditional routes, including mature students and part-time postgraduates undertaking study as part of their continuing professional development. Off-campus (split) research is also offered, which enables you to conduct trials in conditions appropriate to your research programme.

FacilitiesFacilitiesNU-Food Food and Consumer Research Facility

The NU-Food Food and Consumer Research Facility has undergone a £700,000 refurbishment and now boasts a culinary training suite, a sensory laboratory and food handling facility, all supported by multi-functional rooms and a reception.

Centre for Rural Economy

The Centre for Rural Economy is a Newcastle University Research Centre specialising in interdisciplinary social science, researching rural development and policy, food and society, and the wellbeing of rural communities.

As a research student you will receive a tailored package of academic and support elements to ensure you maximise your research and future career. The academic information is in the programme profile and you will be supported by our Postgraduate Researcher Development Programme, doctoral training centres and Research Student Support Team.

How to Apply

You should get in touch about our research degrees before you apply. Use our Applicant Portal to apply for your course. We have a step-by-step guide to help you.

You can apply for funded and non-funded PhD opportunities in the School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development.

Interview:

You'll be invited for an interview as part of the application process. The supervisor will arrange this with you.

Start dates:

The course starts in September, but we consider January and April start dates on an individual basis.

There is no application closing date for this course, but specific deadlines for funding may apply.

We suggest international students apply at least two months before the course starts. This is so that you have enough time to make the necessary arrangements.

Deposit:

If you live outside the UK/EU you must:

• pay a deposit of £1,500
• or submit an official letter of sponsorship

The deposit is payable after you receive an offer to study at Newcastle University. The deposit is non-refundable, but is deducted from your tuition fees when you register.

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Entry requirements for this course

Contact Newcastle University to find course entry requirements.

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