PhD assessing development of laying hen individuality 100

Applicants are sought
Applicants are sought for a PhD candidate to explore the development of movement and location patterns of individual laying hens, their relationship to basic health metrics, and how this information can be used towards improving breeding within cage-free housing systems (https://tinyurl.com/HenTrack2).

PhD assessing development of laying hen individuality

The project will be based at the Center for Proper Housing of Poultry and Rabbits within the Division of Animal Welfare at the University of Bern . The salary will be based on regulations of the Swiss National Science Foundation. The PhD program is funded for a three year period, though there is a possibility for extension into a fourth year pending.

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in relevant discipline (e.g., biology, animal science, veterinary science, or psychology)
• Demonstrated experience in research including analysis, presentation of research findings, and development of concepts
• Good knowledge of spoken and written English
Highly valued
• Experience and interest in ethology and/or animal welfare (or project related experience)
• Knowledge of statistics including generalized linear mixed effects models
• Experience in software programming (especially R) and working with large datasets
• Active member of relevant societies and attendance of scientific conferences
• Good knowledge of spoken and written German and/or French

You will be working on a cutting-edge topic in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary research team under attractive working conditions (salary, working environment, flexible working hours). You will be able to develop your career further as part of a dedicated, collaborative network of scientists. You will also have the possibility to contribute to teaching and collaborate in other research projects.

To apply, please send a 1-2 page cover letter describing your background (particularly highlighting the characteristics given above) and interest in the position, a CV detailing your education and research experience, and contact information for at least two references. The CV should NOT contain your photograph. Applications will be accepted until August 1, 2024 and interviews will be conducted in August/September either via teleconference or in person if possible. We hope for the student to formally begin the position in November 2024 though the specific date is negotiable.