Website Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences SLU
Job description
Project Introduction
This postdoctoral position is part of a newly funded research project aimed at translating sensor-based health monitoring technology into practical decision-support tools for farmers, in close collaboration with industry partners. The project focuses on using 3D imaging, computer vision, and predictive modeling to enable automated rumen fill assessment.
The postdoc will further develop existing rumen fill scoring algorithms into a functional prototype and pilot the technology for long-term monitoring in individual dairy cows. The work includes designing and conducting observational animal health studies, performing structured health checks together with veterinarians, and linking rumen fill dynamics to feed intake and early disease indicators. Based on these data, predictive models for early health warnings will be developed in collaboration with statisticians.
The research is conducted in a multi-disciplinary team across several institutions. The position offers considerable autonomy, opportunities for method development and project leadership, as well as collaboration with both academia and industry.
The postdoc will be affiliated with the Unit of Epidemiology and is expected to contribute relevant expertise to other projects within the unit to a limited extent, and participate in unit activities such as seminars, events, and grant applications.
Expected responsibilities of the postdoctoral researcher:
– Independently conduct high-quality research within the project scope
– Develop, validate and optimize predictive models and algorithms
– Plan and perform data collection at research facilities
– Analyze and interpret sensor, 3D imaging, and health assessment data
– Collaborate with academic and industrial project partners
– Publish research findings in international peer-reviewed journals
– Communicate research findings to academic and non-academic audiences
offer requirements
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
– Hold a doctoral degree, preferably obtained no more than three years before the application deadline, or expected to complete the doctoral degree before taking up the position (planned starting date: March 1, 2026).
– Have a master’s or equivalent degree in agricultural engineering, precision agriculture, data science, machine learning, automation systems, or closely related fields.
– Have work experience related to ruminants.
– Have experience in precision agriculture and/or precision livestock farming.
– Have work experience in both academia and industry (preferably in the agricultural sector).
– Demonstrate strong data analysis skills and the ability to translate sensor data into operationally relevant information for dairy cow production.
– Show a high degree of independence, responsibility, and project management ability.
The following are considered strong merits:
– Strong publication record, including high-impact / well-known journals
– Demonstrated ability to attract external research funding
– Experience in computer vision and 3D imaging
– Experience in data engineering and establishing data pipelines
– Design of data collection frameworks, including deployment of sensors in barn environments
– Proficiency in spoken and written Swedish and English
offer benefits
At SLU University Animal Hospital (UDS), education, research, and advanced animal care are closely integrated. We train future veterinarians and animal nurses, and provide top-class care for companion animals, sport animals, and production animals. We also disseminate knowledge to the public. By combining established knowledge with the latest research results, we develop future animal care.
We provide medical services for horses, dogs, cats, and other small animals under one roof. In addition to modern premises adapted to the business, we have advanced diagnostic imaging and specialist veterinary laboratories. UDS also includes ambulatory clinics, on-site visits to stables and farms for examination and treatment of horses and farm animals. In total, about 200 employees provide professional animal medical services 24/7.
– Employment form: Fixed-term postdoctoral contract, 24 months, with possible extension
– Working hours: 100% full-time
For more information about benefits and working environment at SLU, please visit: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/