What is the AMAST College of ECRs and ECPs?

The AMAST College of Early Career Researchers (ECRs) and Early Career Professionals (ECPs) is an intensive three-day training programme designed to bring together the next generation of leaders in antimicrobial stewardship, animal health, and sustainable food production. Running from 3-5 March 2026 at Cockle Farm Park near Newcastle, this programme offers an opportunity for Early Career Researchers and Professionals to learn, network, and collaborate across disciplinary boundaries.

This programme is committed to transdisciplinarity, acknowledging that real-world solutions require real-world perspectives, and that means including people who work outside traditional academic settings.

Who Should Apply?

We’re looking for passionate individuals at the early stages of their careers who are committed to making a difference in antimicrobial stewardship and sustainable agriculture. This includes:

• Academic researchers: PhD students and postdoctoral researchers working in relevant fields
• Professionals with 3+ years of experience in the agri-food sector, animal health, veterinary practice, or related industries – farm management, veterinary practice, food safety, food production, processing and retailing, animal welfare, agricultural extension or industry R&D
• Policy and implementation specialists working on agricultural policy, animal welfare, or food system sustainability
• Communication professionals helping bridge the gap between science and practice

We particularly welcome applications from non-academic professionals to ensure diverse perspectives and transdisciplinary exchange.

Practical Information

Dates: 3-5 March 2026 (Tuesday-Thursday)

Location: Cockle Park, near Morpeth, Newcastle upon Tyne

Cost: FREE – all costs including accommodation, meals, and training materials are covered

Accommodation: Accommodation provided for those traveling from afar

Travel Support: Depending on need and funds availability

How to Apply

Applications are now open. To apply, you’ll need to complete a registration of interest form, explaining why you want to participate and what you hope to gain from the experience.

Application Deadline: 16 January 2026

Notification of Acceptance: 30 January 2026

Places are limited to 20 participants to ensure meaningful interaction and engagement. We will select participants based on their experience, motivation, and contribution to programme diversity.

Why This Matters

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the greatest threats to global health, food security, and economic prosperity. Addressing this challenge requires coordinated action across the entire food system.

The AMAST College of ECPs is an investment in the future of antimicrobial stewardship. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, we aim to create a community of practitioners who understand that complex challenges require collaborative solutions.