2x Scientific Project Assistant(Pre-Doc) PhD student working on “Innovative birth management in cattle and pigs with a focus on computer vision”

This is Vetmeduni Vienna

The Vetmeduni teaches, undertakes research and offers services designed to guarantee the health of animals in Austria. We view our work as our contribution to ensuring human health and the health of our animal companions as well as to the production of healthy food.

About the Job

The TU Wien, University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria (Campus Hagenberg) and Vetmeduni have launched an interdisciplinary Doctoral School on Precision Livestock Farming (“PLFDoc”), funded by the Austrian Science Foundation (FWF). PLFDoc will focus on application-oriented basic research, in particular on new methods of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) and Computer Vision technologies for health and welfare monitoring in livestock. The successful candidate will work in an interdisciplinary team as part of PLFDoc. Additional information on the Doctoral School can be found at: www.vetmeduni.ac.at/plf-doc

The PhD thesis focus on the development of computer vision algorithms for calving prediction, furthermore development of a novel farrowing management procedure based on automated prediction and monitoring with computer vision. The study will be focused on automated detection of relevant behaviours. Datasets used in the project were recorded on research farms but will also be supplemented with synthetically generated datasets e.g. with Unreal Engine 5. Additionally, the study aims to evaluate the impact of application of developed computer vision based management strategy on cattle and pigs’ welfare, health and productivity.

Required selection criteria

• Master or equivalent degree in veterinary medicine, agricultural sciences, computer science, data science, bioengineering or engineering from international renowned institutions of higher education in any of the research field of the Doctoral School
• Fluent English in writing, reading and speaking (Level B2)
• Knowledge in data analysis and programming

Desirable selection criteria

• Affinity with livestock, preferably in animal handling
• Interest in animal health, welfare and production
• Knowledge in behavioural data analysis
• Experience with sensor use in biology
• Knowledge in computer programming (e.g. C, C++, Python, Java, Matlab, R)
• Ability to conduct research relatively independently
• Experience with deep learning frameworks would be a plus
• Scientific publications would be a plus
• Experience with video game engines and synthetic data e.g. Unreal Engine 5 would be a plus

We offer

• Top university: the Vetmeduni is one of the leading academic institutions in Europe to offer education in and undertake research on veterinary medicine
• Stable employer
• Attractive campus
• Opportunities for further training, both personal and in connection with your career
• Preventive and medical health care
• Diversity- and family-friendly culture
• Childcare facilities, both in term time and during holidays
• Many attractive fringe benefits
• Staff events

Salary and conditions

The minimum salaries at universities are governed by a collective bargaining agreement. At the level given above, the minimum salary amounts to EUR 3,277.30 gross per month (based on full-time employment).

Grade: B1 Pre-Doc 
Level of employment: 30 hours per week
Duration of contract: 3 years 
Place of employment: Vetfarm” and Campus Vetmeduni, Vienna

About the application

For submitting your application please visit www.vetmeduni.ac.at/en/jobs/scientific-positions Please do not forget to include the reference number, or we shall not be able to assign your application to the correct position.
Documents to be submitted for admission will include

• Letter of motivation
• Relevant certificates and diploma supplements of previous studies 
• At least 2 letters of recommendation
• Curriculumvitae

In accordance with § 41 of the 2002 Universities Act, the Vetmeduni is striving to increase the proportion of female staff members, particularly in leadership positions, and to achieve a balanced ratio of men and women on its staff, especially the scientific staff, and would thus welcome applications from qualified females. If women are underrepresented (below 50%), female candidates who are as well qualified as the most appropriate male candidates will be given preference, provided that there is no reason to prefer a particular males candidate.

There is no cost for applying for the position. However, candidates have no rights to reimbursement of any travel and accommodation costs that may arise in connection with their applications.

Further information
Dr. Michael Iwersen
michael.iwersen@vetmeduni.ac.at
+43 2672 82335 - 32
www.vetmeduni.ac.at
www.vetmeduni.ac.at/plf-doc