Pathway to PhD Program

Introduction

Are you interested in pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in science and
engineering? If yes, the IoT4Ag ERC Pathway to PhD Program (PPP) may be for you.
This workshop will walk you through applying to graduate-level PhD programs in the
United States. It will provide information about funding opportunities and help you
develop your own application materials.

Program at-a-Glance

IoT4Ag offers this resource to undergraduate and master’s students who wish to (1) learn about the graduate school admission process to U.S.-based PhD programs, including factors that contribute to a strong application, (2) gain an understanding of the components of fellowship opportunities like the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program, and (3) write a personal statement and research plan for these opportunities under the guidance of a PPP mentor.

Audience

  • Undergraduate and master’s students interested in pursuing an agriculture, science or engineering PhD program. The PPP’s matching of participants with a mentor for four weeks is especially useful for students actively working on PhD program or fellowship applications

  • Participants in degree programs or who have earned degrees in engineering, agricultural science, or a related discipline.

  • Participants who are interested in IoT technologies in agricultural settings.

Pathway to PhD Program (PPP) Workshop Details

The 2026 PPP workshop will be held on Saturday, October 17, 11 am – 4 pm EDT over zoom. 
 

This IoT4Ag Signature Initiative PPP Workshop offers participants valuable insights into applying for PhD programs and fellowships. Attendees will be matched with current PhD students, postdoctoral fellows, or faculty mentors to receive personalized guidance on their personal and research statements.

Mentorship continues through November 15, 2026, allowing participants to refine their application materials for maximum impact.

Cost: Free for participants. 
 
Expectations:
We expect active engagement throughout the Saturday workshop, including participation in large group discussions and hands-on work in small group breakout sessions focused on written statement drafts.
 

Eligibility:  Open to U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents.

Sign up: Fill in the form here.