Dr Thomas McCarthy’s journey from agricultural science student to international forage scientist reflects the power of research to shape sustainable futures for farming communities at home and abroad.
Thomas holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Science and a PhD in Soil, Agronomy and Crop Science from South East Technological University (SETU). He completed his doctoral research at Teagasc Johnstown Castle, where he examined potassium cycling in temperate grasslands and its impact on fertilisation strategies and grassland productivity.
His work contributes to improved nutrient management at a time when environmental protection and farm efficiency are more important than ever.
“Hard work and grit pay off! I wouldn’t have had an opportunity like this without the great training I received at SETU during my PhD.”
Dr Thomas McCarthy
Supporting farmers and the circular bioeconomy
Following his PhD, Thomas worked with Teagasc to support farmers in improving nutrient management efficiency and to explore opportunities within the circular bioeconomy across agriculture and forestry. These experiences strengthened his interest in practical, industry-focused research that benefits communities on the ground.
A global move to New Zealand
Thomas now works as a forage scientist at DairyNZ in Hamilton, New Zealand. His work centres on grasslands, emerging technologies to measure pasture performance, and climate resilience in pasture-based farming systems.
His projects address some of the most pressing challenges in global agriculture; how to improve productivity while adapting to climate change and protecting natural resources.
Learning through perseverance
Reflecting on the path from SETU to DairyNZ, Thomas says his biggest realisation came through the PhD journey itself.
Marking a milestone from afar
Thomas recently graduated in absentia, watching the ceremony online from New Zealand. Although he missed the occasion in person, the moment remained meaningful.
“It was a shame not to be there after all the hard work, but I heard my name being called out and the big applause. It meant a lot.”
Dr Thomas McCarthy
SETU research making global impact
Thomas’s story reflects the strength of SETU’s research community and the global opportunities that emerge from rigorous training, determination, and collaboration. His work continues to support sustainable farming and climate-resilient agriculture, demonstrating how SETU graduates contribute to real-world solutions across the world.
