Estonian University of Life Sciences Funded PhD Position 2026/2027 in Animal Science and Grazing Systems Research

The Estonian University of Life Sciences is inviting applications for a funded PhD position for the 2026/2027 academic year. The doctoral research opportunity is based at the Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences and offers candidates the chance to work on an interdisciplinary project focused on livestock feeding behaviour, pasture biomass dynamics, and precision grazing technologies.

The project will be supervised under the Chair of Animal Nutrition and presents an excellent opportunity for students interested in animal science, ecology, agronomy, and technology-supported agricultural research.

Selected candidates will receive funding for the PhD program, including:

• Funded doctoral research position
• Supervision by experienced academic researchers
• Access to advanced monitoring technologies
• Opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research
• Training in data-driven livestock management methods
• Research experience in Estonia

This funded position provides an excellent platform for building expertise in precision livestock farming and sustainable grazing systems.

This opportunity is available for students applying for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree.

PhD Project Title

Evaluation of Feeding Behaviour and Biomass Dynamics in Estonian Grazing Pastures Using Integrated GPS, Drone Imaging and Grass Analysis Approaches

This innovative research project aims to understand how livestock behaviour interacts with pasture biomass quality and availability in northern temperate grazing systems, particularly in Estonia.

Research Areas

The funded PhD position covers interdisciplinary research in:

• Animal Science
• Veterinary Medicine
• Ecology
• Environmental Science
• Agronomy
• Precision Agriculture
• Livestock Nutrition
• Remote Sensing Technologies

Research Project Overview

Grassland ecosystems are essential for:

• Livestock production
• Biodiversity conservation
• Carbon cycling

However, grazing systems are strongly affected by:

• Grazing pressure
• Climate variability
• Management practices

This PhD project seeks to fill existing research gaps by integrating:

• Drone-based multispectral imaging
• GPS livestock tracking
• Laboratory grass composition analysis

Using these tools, the research will investigate:

• Pasture biomass availability
• Grass nutritional quality
• Feeding behaviour of livestock
• Spatial grazing patterns
• Animal performance outcomes

The results are expected to improve understanding of sustainable grazing management in northern pasture ecosystems.

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

Applicants should have an academic background in:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Science
• Ecology
• Environmental Science
• Agronomy
• Related disciplines

Ideal candidates should also have:

• Interest in data-driven agricultural research
• Motivation for interdisciplinary research
• Interest in animal welfare and precision livestock technologies

Candidates who are completing their current degree may apply, provided the final degree is completed before the PhD begins.

Applicants must submit their applications through the designated portals:

For Estonian Applicants:

Apply via SAIS between 1–15 June 2026

For International Applicants:

Apply via DreamApply between 1 April – 1 June 2026

Applicants are encouraged to prepare all academic documents before the deadlines.

Required Documents

Although exact requirements may vary, applicants typically need:

• Academic transcripts
• Degree certificates
• CV or resume
• Research motivation statement
• Proof of academic qualifications
• Other documents requested by the university portal

Why Apply for This PhD?

This PhD position is an excellent opportunity for students who want to:

• Conduct funded doctoral research in Europe
• Work on sustainable livestock systems
• Gain expertise in precision agriculture tools
• Use advanced technologies like drones and GPS monitoring
• Build an academic career in animal welfare and environmental science

The interdisciplinary nature of the project also offers valuable experience at the intersection of animal behaviour, ecology, and digital agriculture.

Further information for applicants is available:

• in Estonian: https://www.emu.ee/doktoriope

• in English: https://www.emu.ee/en/doctoral-studies-phd

Contact Information

For further information, interested applicants may contact:

Francesca Carnovale
Junior Professor in Animal Welfare
Chair of Animal Nutrition
Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences
Estonian University of Life Sciences
Tartu, Estonia

Email: [email protected]