Perry Foundation

The Perry Foundation, established in 1970 as a UK charitable foundation honouring Lord Perry, evolved from the Boreham Institute of Agriculture to advance research and education in UK agriculture and food production for public benefit. Rooted in innovation, evidence-based practice, and sector leadership, it prioritises substantial PhD studentships and smaller grants for projects addressing productivity, sustainability, crop science, plant health, sustainable food systems, and rural livelihoods, seeding the next generation of agricultural leaders—many alumni now shape national and international policy.

It funds research exclusively affiliated with UK universities, colleges, or recognised institutions, targeting postgraduate students and early-career researchers whose work delivers measurable benefits to UK farming. Eligible applicants are UK academic institutions; unsolicited applications are welcomed, with no income thresholds, religious restrictions, or geographic limits within the UK.

PhD grants typically reach £36,000 over three years (£12,000 annually), covering fees, stipends, materials, and travel; smaller project grants are under £10,000. Submit via email with a form, CV, and letter detailing aims, outcomes, methodology, budget, risks, and supervisor—deadline 31st October 2025, with shortlisting by December, interviews in January, and decisions soon after, overseen by expert trustees annually.

Exclusions include non-agricultural research, projects lacking UK institutional backing, core funding, capital, or emergency aid. Distinctively, as one of few enduring UK funders solely for PhD-level agricultural research, it offers catalytic, long-term support through rigorous, interview-based selection, ensuring transformative sectoral impact.