PhD Studentship on squash postharvest - Closing date: Fri 7 Dec 2012

Applications are now invited for a Doctorate Scholarship at the Institute of Food, Nutrition and Human Health, Massey University, Palmerston North. The successful applicant will work on a collaborative R&D project between Massey University (Palmerston North) and LeaderBrand Produce (in Gisborne). Project:Kabocha is New Zealand?s second highest value export vegetable, with 80% of the national crop exported to Japan and 20% to South Korea.? LeaderBrand is one of New Zealand?s largest grower/packer/shippers of this product. The overall objective of this project is to investigate a means of predicting the storage potential of different batches (paddock lots) of kabocha squash. Improving the accuracy of selecting the right batches to store would maximise the flexibility of marketing each batch of fruit in the destination market. The applicant will carry out quality assessments and develop mathematical models relating Kabocha quality to storage potential. In order to be eligible applicants must: hold an appropriate prerequisite degree(s) meet the eligibility requirements for PhD study at Massey University maintain the progress and behaviour expected of a PhD candidate Experience with postharvest handling of fresh products and with mathematical modelling would be advantageous. The candidate needs to be highly organised and self-motivated. The position is based in Palmerston North but there will be extended periods of work in Gisborne (where accommodation will be provided).? Candidates need to be available to start as soon as possible. International students may apply. Stipend: NZ$25,000 p.a. (tax free) plus enrolment fees (up to $7,000 p.a.) Project supervisors: Prof Julian Heyes and Dr Andrew East, Massey and Dr Stuart Davis, LeaderBrand. Location: Centre for Postharvest and Refrigeration Research, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand with extended periods in Gisborne. Starting date: immediate if possible. Interested candidates please send your CV and a one-page summary of your proposed approach to: Prof Julian Heyes, Institute of Food, Nutrition and Human Health, Massey University, Private Bag 11 222, Palmerston North 4442. Further background information is available from Prof Heyes on request. Phone: (06) 350 5963 Email: j.a.heyes@massey.ac.nz Closing date: Fri 7 Dec 2012 ?