Graduate Research Assistantship in Controlled Environment Agriculture

The University of Delaware is offering a Graduate Research Assistantship in Controlled Environment Agriculture for M.S. or Ph.D. students starting Spring 2026. Candidates with a background in horticulture or plant science are encouraged to apply. The position includes a competitive stipend, full tuition scholarship, and health insurance. Research focuses on improving resource efficiency in indoor farming and greenhouse production. The job is based in Newark, Delaware.
The Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at the University of Delaware (UD) has fully funded M.S. or Ph.D. student openings in controlled environment agriculture (indoor vertical farming and greenhouse crop production) to start in Spring 2026. An earlier or later start date may be discussed. Students with a strong research background in horticulture, plant science, or a related field are encouraged to apply. Accepted M.S. and Ph.D. students will receive a competitive stipend (for 12-month effort), a full tuition scholarship, and subsidized health insurance. The faculty advisor is Dr. Qingwu Meng (Assistant Professor).

Our research aims to improve resource use efficiency of controlled environment agriculture. You will study 1) photobiological and environmental influence under LED lighting; 2) hydroponic nutrient solution management; 3) biostimulants; and/or 4) spectral effects on plant diseases. These research projects on indoor and greenhouse crops are funded by agencies including USDA and FFAR.

UD is a top-ranked national R1 Land Grant, Sea Grant and Space Grant institution. Located in Newark, Delaware on the East Coast, UD is within 1 hour of Philadelphia and 2 hours of New York City and Washington, D.C. Our Delaware Indoor Ag Lab (DIAL) features color-tunable LED lighting systems, climate-control growth chambers, and greenhouse facilities within walking distance.

To apply, email the following to indooraglab@gmail.com: 1) an introductory statement of why you are the best fit (technical and personal traits), your research experience in controlled environment agriculture, and your desired start date; and 2) a CV. Email by June 10, 2025 for priority funding consideration. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Only formally apply through UD if invited to.