PhD Studentship Funding and Finance



Computational Behaviour Analysis in Livestock and its Applications to Disease Prediction and Prevention

Reference Code: CS043

Closing Date: 5th April 2013

Details:

Name of Supervisor
Dr Thomas Ploetz, School of Computing Science

Professor Ilias Kyriazakis, School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development

Sponsor
Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)

Duration of the Award
4-year integrated MRes/PhD Studentship (Autumn 2013)

Project Description
Computational analysis techniques will process behavioural data from healthy and sick animals with the objective of detecting abnormalities in their social interactions that are linked to health and welfare challenges. The project will focus on the development of a sensing infrastructure for monitoring animals, and of techniques for automatic analysis of the recorded behaviour data. It offers the opportunity to explore signal processing and data analysis techniques in an interesting and relevant domain.

The successful graduate will have gained expertise in computing science, veterinary science and animal behaviour, which will equip him/her with unique skills for a future career.

Value of the Award of Eligibility
Depending on BBSRC’s eligibility criteria, the student may be entitled to a full or a partial award. The former covers tuition fees at the UK/EU rate and an annual stipend of £13,590 (2012/13). A partial award covers fees at the UK/EU rate only.

Person Specification
This project is suitable for computer science students with interest in signal processing, computer vision, and machine learning with focus on real-world biological problems. The successful candidate will have a first or second-class Honours degree in Computing Science, Bioinformatics, Electrical Engineering, or any other relevant subject.

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How to Apply

To apply click on the apply button below.

You must apply via the University’s online postgraduate application form inserting reference CS043 and selecting ‘PhD Computer Science – Computing Science’ as the programme of study. Mandatory fields need to be completed (no personal statement or proposal are required). A covering letter, CV and (if English is not your first language) a copy of English language qualifications must be attached. The covering letter must state the title of the studentship, quote reference CS043 and state how your interests and experience relate to the project.

Shortlisted candidates will be called for interview on 15 April 2013. Please state your availability for interview and provide full daytime contact details.

Please also send your covering letter and CV to the Postgraduate Secretary by e-mail to cs.pg@ncl.ac.uk.

Further Information
Please direct informal enquiries to:
Dr Thomas Ploetz 
E-mail: thomas.ploetz@ncl.ac.uk

Or

Professor Ilias Kyriazakis 
E-mail: ilias.kyriazakis@ncl.ac.uk

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