The Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) is pleased to announce the winners of its 2010 FAR Postgraduate Scholarships; Sarah McKenzie and Simon Abel.
"We are extremely proud to see these young, talented students rewarded for their dedication and achievement," said Nick Pyke, FAR's Chief Executive. "The future of farming in New Zealand will be very reliant upon research and extension activities; it is therefore crucial that FAR, as a key industry player, assists with developing these talented individuals if they are to become the next generation of scientists and arable industry personnel.
Sarah McKenzie is studying a M.Agr.Sc. "Having grown up on a sheep, beef and cropping farm in the Wairarapa, I have always had an interest in the outdoors and agriculture" said Sarah. "University has given me the opportunity to expand my knowledge in a broad range of areas. I have a keen interest in novel fungal endophyte and developments of the effects they have on pastures and insect pests as well as seed production."
Simon Abel has a strong passion for agricultural research which has been evident throughout his academic career and also through his employment with PGG Wrightson Seeds and Lincoln University. Simon is undertaking a B.Sc. (Hons) with a view to working in the arable research industry upon completion of his studies. His research project is to focus on the effects of rainfall, pre-harvest and post windrow, on perennial ryegrass seed endophyte survival and seed quality. Further to this, he will be looking at the AR37 endopyhte strain. "I would like to take this opportunity to express my extreme gratitude for being one of the recipients of this prestigious scholarship" said Simon. "This award will go a long way in assisting with my university course fees and with my future prospects within the arable industry."
The FAR scholarships were set up with the aim of encouraging more students into the agricultural science and research arena, providing financial assistance with both course and day-to-day living fees.
The scholarships valued at $7,000 each were open to full-time students at Lincoln University whom were eligible to proceed to, or were planning to undertake postgraduate research in agricultural science and related fields, which in turn would assist with increasing knowledge within the New Zealand arable farming sector.
For the 2010 academic year, FAR received five applications from students undertaking agricultural related studies at Lincoln University. The scholarship regulations state that students must be eligible to proceed to or be undertaking postgraduate research which will assist with increasing understanding within the New Zealand arable farming sector. Applicants must be completing studies towards post graduate diploma in Ag. Sc., Hons, Masterate or PhD in agriculture or relevant science disciplines.
FAR Scholarship Winners Announced
