Agricultural scientist / agricultural economist

At the Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), we strive to advance sustainable livestock farming in a globalized world. Our research focuses on enhancing resource efficiency while addressing both local and global environmental and climate impacts. We prioritize animal welfare, health, and the safety of food derived from livestock. FBN is renowned for its innovative and multidisciplinary approach supported by a modern research infrastructure and international collaboration. Settled on a green, natural campus just a short drive from the vibrant coastal city of Rostock, FBN offers an inspiring setting for impactful research dedicated to a sustainable future in agriculture.

The working group Animal Behaviour & Welfare in the Competence Area Behaviour and Welfare is filling - subject to the final grant approval - a

PhD student position (m/f/d)

The position will start on May 1st, 2025 for a fixed term of 48 months. If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the payment will be in accordance with the collective agreement for the federal states (TV-L), pay grade E 13 TV-L (65%)

What you can expect:

Research and own qualification (doctorate) as part of the joint project “Digital applications for autonomous herd and pasture management of cattle (AutoPasture)“. In an interdisciplinary research team, sustainable solutions that meet animal welfare requirements are being developed to automate the grazing of cattle. In the project, you will analyse the behaviour of cattle in response to artificial and biotic predator simulations. Specific anomalies in behaviour will be automatically detected and recommendations for action derived. Technologies such as GPS, 3D acceleration sensors, camera technology and drones will be used.

Your Qualifications:

• Master degree in agricultural sciences, biology, veterinary medicine or bioinformatics
• Experience with or willingness to learn the above-mentioned technologies
• Knowledge in the field of experimental design and statistical data analysis (R)
• High motivation to work with cattle in the field
• Knowledge of cattle farming and behaviour is desirable but not required
• Good knowledge of written and spoken German and English
• Class B driving licence and willingness to travel
• Commitment and ability to work in a team

What we offer:

• Multifaceted and challenging research tasks in a performance‐oriented and family‐friendly environment
• Modern equipment and integration in an industry related network as a doctoral student
• Employment conditions according to the „Tarifvertrag für den öffentlichen Dienst der Länder (TV-L)“
• Assistance with formal issues while settling into the new living environment

The FBN is an internationally-oriented research institute performing basic and applied research on the biology of farmed animals. As equal opportunities and diversity are important components of our HR policy, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. The project offers the opportunity to network with other national players in the field of agroforestry.

For informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Jan Langbein (langbein@fbn-dummerstorf.de; Tel.: +49-(0)38208-68 814).

We look forward to your application.

Please send applications (single pdf-file preferred), including a motivation letter, detailed CV, copies of diplomas and certificates, and the contact information of references to: personal@fbn-dummerstorf.de.

Please quote the job number 2025-01 in your application.

Finally, it should be noted that we are not allowed to reimburse application or travel expenses in connection with the application. By submitting your application, you consent to the processing of your personal data for the purpose of the application procedure.

For more information about the FBN, please visit us online:

www.fbn-dummerstorf.de

Our job advertisements are always directed at all people capable of working, regardless of age, gender, origin, sexual orientation, disability, religion and ideology, etc. Applicants are exclusively selected based on their qualifications. Errors in the given information and spelling reserved.