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.
Scholarship Overview
- Fully Funded, Partial Funding
- Estonian University of Life Sciences
- PhD
- Life Sciences
- International Students, Domestic Students
- Estonia
Degree Level
This opportunity is available for students applying for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree.
Available Subjects
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.
Benefits
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.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
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.
Application Procedure
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