Application of breath analysis for animal performance monitoring

Title: Doctoral Studentship (PhD)

Application Closing Date: Sunday 26^th June 2022

Location: Hartpury University, Gloucestershire.

Stipend: £16,062 per annum

Contract Type: Full Time (3 years)

Area of Research:

Application of breath analysis for animal performance monitoring

The aim of this project is to apply breath analysis technology from human science to monitor animal health, performance and welfare. The University of West of England (UWE) are at the forefront of global breath research having published the first compendium of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) making up the human volatilome. This project is a collaboration between Hartpury University and UWE to trial gas sensors for use breathalysing cattle and horses at Hartpury. Hartpury has about 250 cows and 250 horses on site. This research will explore approaches for breath sampling in animals and variability in breath compounds associated with animal health and performance, and how these can be used to improve welfare. Compared to human breath analysis there have been limited studies undertaken on animals to date. The work would suit a student with an interest in the use of technology for monitoring animals and animal welfare. The objectives of the work are to:

1. To review existing technology and approaches used to measure breath compounds
2. To test sampling approaches across animals
3. To monitor changes in breath components and explore associations with health, wellbeing and physiological state

For more information and for an initial discussion please contact Dr Ben De Lacy Costello [Email Address Removed] or Prof. Matt Bell [Email Address Removed]

Description of studentship:

Hartpury University and UWE are pleased to be offering six fully funded studentships to start on 19th September 2022. This studentship will be predominately based at Hartpury University but will also require attendance at UWE Bristol. Students will be based in Hartpury’s Animal and Agriculture Research Centre. This is a unique and exciting opportunity to become part of vibrant postgraduate community in an idyllic rural setting, with world leading facilities and undertaking impactful cutting-edge research. The University of the West of England is the awarding body for this degree.

Studentships comprise tuition fees at UK home rates and a stipend of GBP £16,062 per annum tenable for 3 years; for international students, studentships comprise international tuition fees and a reduced stipend of GBP £8,031 per annum for 3 years. Alongside their research projects, successful candidates will be asked (as a condition of their stipend) to deliver up to 7 hours per week teaching or research support within the University. 

PhD Studentship Selection Criteria:

The following criteria will be taken into account when considering applications:

• The strength of your professional and academic profile, as demonstrated through previous study and/or professional experience
• The quality, invention and viability of ideas relating to the research project you are applying for
• The contribution you are able to make to the Hartpury and UWE research communities and universities, in terms of both research and teaching

Candidates should also be aware of the following:

The normal expectation is that applicants will hold at least a 2:1 or a Masters qualification from a UK university or a degree of comparable standing from a university outside the UK. The candidate’s degree relevant to the studentship should demonstrate their potential for practice-led research or alternative evidence of research aptitude.

Applicants whose first language is not English require a recognised English language qualification. The minimum entry requirement is GCSE English at grade C or above or IELTS score 7.0 or TOEFL score 600 (or demonstrable equivalent).

Applying for a PhD studentship

To apply for a PhD studentship you must send the following documents to [Email Address Removed]:

• A curriculum vitae (maximum 3 pages)
• Copies of academic transcripts
• A covering letter outlining your suitability for the studentship
• A recent piece of critical writing you have completed (max 3000 words)
• If English is not your first language, certification of English language qualification

Applications that do not arrive by Midnight (UK time) on Sunday 26^th June 2022 will not be considered.

If your application is selected. You will be invited for interview on Monday 4^th July 2022. All applicants must ensure their availability on this date.

Key dates

26^th June 2022: Deadline for submission of applications

30^th June 2022: Interview invitations sent to shortlisted candidates*

4^th July 2022: Interviews at Hartpury*

8^th July 2022: Studentships announced

15^th July 2022: Deadline for accepting studentship

19^th September 2022: Studentship begins

* Please note that by submitting an application you are confirming your availability to attend an interview on Monday 4^th July 2022

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All  

successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks. 

Hartpury values a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.