PhD Studentship in Epidemiology/ Animal/ Veterinary Science – risk factors and associations between pig production diseases
Reference Code: AG016
Closing Date: 31st January 2014
Details:
Name of the supervisors
Professor Ilias Kyriazakis, School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development
Sponsor
European Union
Duration of the award
Four year PhD â Start date: September 2014
Project description
Production diseases in pigs compromise health and welfare, generating inefficiencies which impact adversely on profitability, environmental footprint and product quality. The aim of this studentship is to develop understanding of the multi-factorial dimension of pig pathologies linked to the intensification of production and use it to develop effective control strategies to reduce impact.
The project will quantify risk and protective factors in pigs, regarding poor health, sow welfare and performance, neonatal and piglet mortality and lesions in pigs. Prior to doing this the current situation on health, welfare and performance in pigs across Europe will be assessed and the biosecurity and management practices related to poor health, welfare and performance in pig farms will be scored. The studentship is part of an EU-funded project; the student will work closely with epidemiologists and will assist in developing a standardized methodology to be used in diverse systems in nine countries.
Combining expertise in epidemiology, health, management and animal science, working closely with industry, this interdisciplinary project will equip the student with unique skills for a future career.
Value of the award and eligibility
The award is available only to UK and EU Nationals. It covers in full four years tuition and will pay a stipend of £13,726pa (2013/14 rate).
Person specification
The project is suitable for a student interested in the epidemiological basis of diseases, attracted to biological challenges and the opportunity to develop control strategies. The successful candidate will have a first-class or upper-second-class Honours degree in animal/veterinary science, biology or other relevant subject, and hold a Masterâs in epidemiology.
How to apply
You must apply through the Universityâs online postgraduate application form selecting âPhD School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development – Agriculture, Marketing & Food Marketingâ as the programme of study. Please insert the studentship/partnership reference number AG016. Only mandatory fields need to be completed (no personal statement or research proposal is required), a covering letter, CV and (if English is not your first language) a copy of your English language qualifications must be attached. The covering letter must state the title of the studentship, quote the reference number AG016 and state how your interests and experience relate to the project.
Please also send your covering letter and CV to Ilias Kyriazakis at: ilias.kyriazakis@ncl.ac.uk.
Further information
For further information, please contact:
Professor Ilias Kyriazakis
E-mail: ilias.kyriazakis@ncl.ac.uk