The EU-LI-PHE network is pleased to share an open PhD opportunity at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna within the Precision Livestock Farming (PLF Hub), focusing on the use of artificial intelligence and computer vision to improve animal health and welfare.
The position is for a University Assistant (Pre-Doc) / PhD student working on “Computer vision for automated detection of damaging behaviour in pigs”. The project will investigate advanced computer vision approaches for precision livestock phenotyping, with a particular focus on the early detection of abnormal behaviour in weaned piglets. The successful candidate will work on individual animal identification, tracking and behaviour recognition, as well as methods for improving the robustness of computer vision models, including the generation of synthetic datasets. The position also involves scientific publication and presentation of research findings at national and international conferences.
The position is open to candidates holding a Master’s degree or equivalent in veterinary medicine, agricultural sciences, computer science, data science, bioengineering, engineering, or a related field. Experience or knowledge in programming and data analysis, deep learning, computer vision, synthetic data, behavioural data analysis, or biological sensor technologies would be an advantage. An interest in animal health, welfare and production is also desirable. Applicants should have a good command of English (B2).
Vetmeduni highlights opportunities for professional development, a diversity- and family-friendly working culture, childcare facilities, and other staff benefits. The university also particularly welcomes applications from qualified female candidates and from people with disabilities.
Applications should be submitted by email to bewerbungen@vetmeduni.ac.at, quoting reference number 2026/0120. Applicants should include the relevant degree certificates and transcripts of records.
For further information, please contact Maciej Oczak, PhD, at maciej.oczak@vetmeduni.ac.at or visit the Precision Livestock Farming Hub website.
We encourage members of the EU-LI-PHE community with relevant backgrounds and interests to consider this opportunity and share it with colleagues and early-career researchers who may be interested.
More information can be found in the job post here.
