Doctoral student in Ecology, with specialization in Animal Welfare
Linnéuniversitetet / Högskolejobb / Kalmar
2025-04-22
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hela Sverige Welcome to Linnaeus University! Here you'll meet 2 200 staff members and 40 000 students, all united in following the vision to set knowledge in motion for a sustainable societal development. With us, research and education are conducted with an eye towards the future. Our proximity to the business world, both locally and globally, gives us a wide reach and the ability to create change that makes an impact. All that's needed is a place where ideas have the space to meet and grow. That's what we've created - and you are invited. Change starts here!
The Department of Biology and Environment (BOM) is part of the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences. The research activities of this interdisciplinary department cover areas such as aquatic ecology, cell and organismal biology, evolutionary biology, microbiology, environmental science and technology, animal welfare and zoonotic ecology.
Subject area for the position: Ecology, with focus on Animal Welfare Science
Location until further notice: Kalmar
Term and hours: The doctoral studentship is limited in time in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance (Chapter 5, Section 7). The studentship is full-time.
Starting date: Starting date according to agreement but ideally May/June 2025
Job description
Access to pasture is a key aspect of dairy cow welfare, allowing animals to express natural behaviours and benefit from outdoor environments. In Sweden, mandatory pasture access has long contributed to high welfare standards. However, recent debates around relaxing these laws raise questions about the future of pasture access in modern dairy production. While discussions often focus on whether or not cows should have pasture access, little attention has been given to how these pasture periods should be managed to optimize welfare.
This PhD project will address this important gap by investigating the welfare of dairy cows during grazing periods. The project will combine field assessments, analysis of herd health data, farmer surveys, and participatory workshops to understand seasonal and regional variations in cow welfare, develop a practical welfare assessment tool for use on pasture, and explore farmers' perspectives on current regulations and grazing challenges. The work will include extensive farm visits across the country and close interaction with farmers and industry. This project will involve strong cooperation with partners in Sweden and abroad.
The Higher Education Ordinance states that anyone who is employed as a doctoral student shall primarily devote themselves to their own studies, although they may, to a limited extent, also work with education, research, and administration. Before a doctorate has been awarded, such work may not exceed 20% of full-time work.
Eligibility
A person fulfils the general entry requirements if they
• have been awarded a degree on second-cycle level, completed the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits, of which 60 credits on second-cycle level, or in another way, in Sweden or abroad, has acquired principally equivalent knowledge.
Specific entry requirements
• Have completed a minimum of 90 credits in biology, agronomy, veterinary sciences, animal sciences, or other closely related fields, of which at least 30 credits are at the second-cycle level, or equivalent knowledge acquired in some other way in Sweden or abroad
• A high proficiency in written and spoken English, with strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within a research team.
• In-depth knowledge and experience in cattle behaviour and welfare are essential.
• The candidate should hold a valid driver license.
Assessment criteria
Documented knowledge and experience in dairy cattle welfare, animal welfare regulations, and working in farming environments - along with demonstrated ability to interact and communicate effectively with farmers and industry representatives - will be considered strong advantages. Experience in organising workshops, scientific writing, data management, and well-developed interpersonal skills are also desirable. The candidate must be flexible and willing to travel for extended periods, including during the summer months. Beyond technical expertise, the candidate should be highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage tasks independently. A proactive and adaptable approach is key, as the role involves close interaction with a variety of stakeholders in both academic and industry settings.
Contact
Head of department- Anna Augustsson (
anna.augustsson@lnu.se), +46-(0) 480-446220
Professor Daiana de Oliveira (
daiana.deoliveira@lnu.se), +46-(0) 480-497089
HR partner- Victoria Simonsson (
victoria.simonsson@lnu.se), +46 (0) 470-708081
Want to know more about the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences? Find out more at:
https://lnu.se/motlinneuniversitetet/Organisation/fakulteten-for-halso--och-livsvetenskap/Welcome with your application no later than April 14, 2025.
The application must be written in English and contain a CV (with the applicant's social security number, telephone number and e-mail as well as contact details including the telephone number and e-mail of two reference persons), a personal letter explaining why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project matches your interests and educational background, copy of passport,
grades and certificates and other relevant documents. Linnaeus University has the ambition to utilize the qualities that an even gender distribution and diversity brings to the organization.
Please apply by clicking on the Apply button at the bottom of the ad. All documents must be attached to digital in the application. All documents cited must be received by the University no later than 23.59 (Local time in Sweden) on the closing day.
Ersättning Individuell lönesättning
Så ansöker du Sista dag att ansöka är 2025-05-14
Klicka på denna länk för att göra din ansökan Omfattning Detta är ett heltidsjobb.
Arbetsgivare Linnéuniversitetet (org.nr 202100-6271),
http://www.lnu.se Jobbnummer 9298187