The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) is seeking a postdoctoral researcher with strong expertise in Precision Livestock Farming, sensor technologies, and data analysis for research focusing on automated health monitoring in dairy cows.

About the project

This postdoctoral position is part of a newly funded research project aimed at translating sensor‑based health monitoring into operational decision‑support tools for farmers, in close collaboration with an industry partner. The project focuses on automated rumen‑fill assessment using 3D imaging, computer vision, and predictive modelling.

The postdoc will further develop an existing rumen‑fill scoring algorithm into a functional prototype and pilot the technology for longitudinal monitoring of individual cows. The work includes designing and conducting an observational animal‑health study, with structured health checks performed together with veterinarians to link rumen‑fill dynamics to feed intake and early signs of disease. Based on these data, predictive models for early health warnings will be developed in collaboration with a statistician.

The research is conducted in a multidisciplinary team across several institutions. The position offers substantial autonomy, methodological development, project leadership, and collaboration with both academic and industrial partners.

The postdoc will be affiliated with the Unit of Epidemiology and is expected to contribute, on a limited basis, relevant expertise to other projects within the unit and participate in departmental activities such as seminars, events, and grant applications.

The postdoctoral researcher is expected to:

• conduct independent, high‑quality research within the scope of the project

• develop, validate, and refine predictive models and algorithms

• plan and carry out data collection at research facilities

• analyse and interpret sensor, 3D imaging, and health‑assessment data

• collaborate with academic and industrial partners

• publish research results in international peer‑reviewed journals

• communicate findings to academic and non‑academic audiences

Qualifications

To be eligible for the position, the applicant must:

• Hold a PhD awarded ideally no more than three years prior to the application deadline, or expect to complete a PhD before the start of employment (planned start date: 1 March 2026).

• Hold an MSc or equivalent degree in agricultural engineering, precision agriculture, data science, machine learning, automated systems, or a closely related field

• Have experience working with ruminants

• Have experience in precision agriculture and/or precision livestock farming

• Have experience working both within academia and industry, preferably within the agricultural sector

• Demonstrate strong skills in data analysis and in translating sensor data into actionable information for dairy production

• Demonstrate a high degree of autonomy, responsibility, and project-management ability

The following are considered strong merits:

• A strong publication record including high-impact/well-established journals

• Demonstrated ability to attract external research funding

• Experience with computer vision and 3D imaging.

• Experience with data engineering and setting up routines for data retrieval.

• Design a data collection framework, including sensor placement in a barn environment.

• Have strong oral and written communication skills in both Swedish and English

About us

At SLU University Animal Hospital (UDS), education, research and advanced animal care go hand in hand. We educate tomorrow's veterinarians and animal nurses and provide first-class care for companion animals, competition animals and production animals. 

We also disseminate knowledge to the general public. By combining established knowledge with the latest research results, we develop the animal care of the future.

Under one roof, we offer healthcare for horses, dogs, cats and other small animals. In addition to modern premises adapted to the business, we have advanced imaging diagnostics and a veterinary specialist laboratory. UDS's operations also include an outpatient clinic that travels to stables and farms to examine and treat horses and farm animals. In total, we have about 200 employees who provide qualified animal healthcare 24/7.

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/

Location:

Uppsala

Form of employment:

Fixed-term employment contract as a postdoctoral researcher 24 months with the possibility of extension.

Extent:

100%

Starting date:

1 March 2026, or according to agreement

Application:

Welcome to submit your application via the application button below no later than 27 February 2026.

The application should include:

• A cover letter describing research experience, motivation, and suitability for the position (maximum 1 page)

• An academic curriculum vitae including contact information, education, experience, publication and other merits.

• Copy of MSc (or equivalent) PhD degree certificate

• Names and contact details of two references

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden.

SLU has around 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 4,5 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.