Job for Researchers: PhD Fellow in Precision Animal Husbandry and AI — ILVO, Belgium

About the Role

ILVO’s Technology and Food Science Unit is seeking a PhD Fellow in Precision Animal Husbandry and AI to contribute to a joint FWO project with Ghent University: “Optimizing the welfare of sows and piglets in free-farrowing pens using Precision Livestock Farming tools.” This four-year doctoral program bridges science and practice, focusing on developing and testing innovative monitoring tools that support the pig farming sector’s transition to more animal-friendly free-farrowing pens.

Responsibilities

• Investigate the behaviour, physiology, and space use of sows and piglets during farrowing, lactation, and weaning.
• Design and evaluate sensor-based monitoring tools (precision livestock farming) in experimental barns and on commercial farms.
• Measure animal responses, manage trials, and maintain direct contact with farmers.
• Analyse complex datasets, interpret results, and ensure reproducible, high‑quality outcomes.
• Contribute actively to research design, problem solving, and communication of findings to colleagues and industry stakeholders.

Requirements

Diploma and Experience

• Master’s degree in bioengineering, engineering, biological sciences, computer science, or an equivalent field (foreign diplomas must obtain equivalence recognition from NARIC Vlaanderen).
• Programming experience in Python or R.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.
• Hold a (provisional) Class B driver’s licence.
• Meet the generic conditions for a PhD doctoral grant as specified by ILVO.

Experience with sensor technology in livestock farming is a strong asset for a smooth start.

Personal Competences

• Analytical and critical – able to interpret complex data and assure result quality.
• Accurate and organised – works meticulously and delivers reproducible results.
• Independent and responsible – plans own work and actively monitors research progress.
• Proactive – takes initiative and contributes ideas on research design and solutions.
• Strong communication skills – conveys findings clearly to colleagues and industry.
• Flexible – switches easily between experiments, analyses, and partner collaboration.

What We Offer

Employment Conditions

• Full‑time, fixed‑term PhD scholarship initially for 1 year, extendable to 4 years upon favourable evaluation.
• Net grant: €2,855.57 per month for the first 2 years, €2,960.94 per month for the final 2 years (tax‑free, subject to social security contributions).
• The grant is funded by ILVO in close cooperation with a university.

Leave and Work‑Life Balance

• 35 vacation days per year (pro rata).
• No work between Christmas and New Year (office closed).
• Flexible working hours and hybrid work possibilities where the position allows.

Additional Benefits

• Hospitalisation insurance.
• Commuting allowance (bicycle or public transport).
• Meal vouchers (€8 per day).

How to Apply

Submit your application by Sunday 26 July 2026. Applications should include a motivation letter, CV, and relevant diplomas/transcripts. For further information, please contact:

• Jarissa Maselyne – Data analysis and precision livestock farming expert ( +32 477 80 66 51 / [email protected] )
• Caroline Buyst – HR specialist ( +32 9 272 25 12 / [email protected] )

Original vacancy