PhD in Applied Ecology – Horse Welfare & Behaviour – Inland Norway University

Key details

• Host institution: Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences
• Location: Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Høyvangvegen 40, Ridabu, Norway
• Application deadline: June 30, 2026

Funding

Not funded by a EU programme

Funding level (from listing): partial or not via EU framework — confirm on the official call.

How to apply

• Apply by email to [email protected] (subject line and attachments per the official instructions).
• Full vacancy text and updates: Euraxess listing.

About the position

Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences (INN) invites applications for a PhD candidate position in applied ecology, focusing on horse welfare and behaviour.

About the position

A full-time (100%) PhD position is available at the Faculty of Applied Ecology, Agricultural Sciences and Biotechnology. The position is financed by INN, runs for 3 years, and starts in August 2026. The candidate will be enrolled in INN’s PhD program in applied ecology and biotechnology, with the workplace at Campus Blæstad.

About the project

This position is part of the project “Welfare and Behaviours of Young Competition Horses in Different Summer Management Systems,” funded by The Horse Research Foundation (Stiftelsen Hästforskning). The research focuses on yearling stallions of the Norwegian Swedish Coldblooded trotter managed in three different systems: mountain pastures, lowland pastures, and stabled horses with access to paddocks or small grazing areas. Over two summer grazing seasons, at least 10 horses per system will be monitored.

The aim is to compare time budgets for welfare-related behaviours such as grazing, resting, and social interactions. Horses will also be assessed for stress levels and body development. The PhD student will use data from GPS collars and triaxial accelerometers, combined with video analysis and machine learning, to quantify horse behaviour. Stress evaluation will involve analysing cortisol concentrations in faecal samples collected at multiple points during the grazing season. Weight and body condition will be monitored using measuring tapes and Body Condition Scores (BCS).

The goal is to provide horse owners with knowledge about horse development and welfare under different environmental conditions, enabling informed choices based on animal welfare criteria.

The main supervisor will be Associate Professor Morten Tofastrud. Co-supervisors will be Associate Professor Mari Reiten and Professors Barbara Zimmermann and Morten Tryland (all at INN).

Qualifications

• Applicants must qualify for admission to INN’s PhD program in Applied Ecology. Those who already hold a PhD will not be considered.
• Applicants who have submitted their master’s thesis for evaluation before the deadline are eligible, but final documentation must be provided before employment is offered.
• A minimum master’s degree (120 credits, §3 master’s in the Norwegian system) or equivalent in agricultural sciences, biology, ecology, veterinary sciences, or a related field is required.
• A strong academic background is required: the average grade should normally be B or better from the master’s program (120 credits) or equivalent. Applicants with weaker grades must document ability to complete a doctoral degree.
• For education approved with pass/fail grades, admission is assessed individually.
• Applicants with education from abroad may contact NOKUT for approval, or a similar assessment will be made during the application process.

Desired attributes

• Experience handling and statistically analysing large datasets and spatial data.
• Excellent data programming skills in R software.
• Passion for research and willingness to communicate with scientists and the public.
• Good teamwork and communication skills.
• Documented peer-reviewed scientific publications or other writing experience is preferred.

Language proficiency

Applicants must be proficient in written and oral English. Non-native English speakers must document English competence through an approved test (TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE), or Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)).

Evaluation criteria

Candidates will be assessed based on educational background, experience, personal suitability, motivation, and other eligibility requirements. Emphasis will be placed on the quality of the project description, documented independent research or development work, and experience relevant to the project.

How to apply

Apply via Jobbnorge. Your application must include:

• Application letter with a brief account of research interests and motivation.
• CV detailing relevant educational background and experience (registered in Jobbnorge’s form).
• Copies of academic diplomas and transcripts (certified English translation required unless documents are in Norwegian).
• List of publications.
• Names and contact information for two referees.
• Any other documentation you wish to be considered.

Attachments must be uploaded as separate files. If attachments exceed 30 MB, compress them before upload. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure all attachments are uploaded. Documents submitted after the deadline will not be considered. If you are awaiting final master’s documentation, submit your thesis and transcript.

We offer

• An exciting and challenging position at a developing institution.
• An ambitious and highly international environment.
• A challenging project with opportunities for personal and scientific development.
• An independent and flexible work setting.
• Daily contact with inspiring skilled colleagues.
• A campus surrounded by agricultural landscapes, forests, and mountains with outdoor recreation opportunities.
• The position is paid at paygrade LT 54 (Government Salary Scale, position code 1017).
• Membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension, with good pension and insurance schemes.

General information

For further details, contact Morten Tofastrud: [email protected].

INN values inclusion and diversity. We encourage applicants with disabilities, gaps in their CV, or immigrant background to apply. Relevant adaptations will be provided. Information about applicants may be made public even if the applicant has requested anonymity.

INN University has around 15,000 students and 1,450 employees across campuses in Lillehammer, Hamar, Elverum, Rena, Evenstad, and Blæstad. Campus Blæstad is located on a farm eight kilometres from Hamar city centre, offering a balance of urban life and outdoor activities.