Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct research on feeding strategies for dairy calves during weaning.
- Company: Harper Adams University is a leading institution in agriculture and food supply education.
- Benefits: Receive tuition coverage, a yearly stipend, and gain valuable research experience.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on animal welfare while working with top researchers in the field.
- Qualifications: Open to candidates with a relevant background in agriculture or animal science.
- Other info: Fixed-term studentship for 36 months starting October 2025.
The predicted salary is between 19237 - 20100 £ per year.
Feeding strategies to enhance the well-being of dairy calves during the weaning transition.
Location: Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB
Post Type: Full Time
Contract Type: Fixed Term - 36 Months
Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Friday 28 February 2025
Reference: RD-PHD-01-EB-MH-25
Director of Studies: Dr Emma Bleach, Agriculture and Environment Department, Harper Adams University, Edgmond, Shropshire.
Second Supervisors: Dr James McCaughern, Dr Gemma Charlton, Dr Joe Roberts.
Start Date: October 2025
The studentship covers the current Home Student (UK, Ireland, Isle of Man & Channel Isles) tuition fees plus a yearly stipend (for 2024/5 this was £19,237 per year) with an expected small increase each academic year (2025/6 to be confirmed).
International applicants would need to fund the difference between Home and Overseas fees (£11,382 for the 2025/26 academic year), with a proportion being paid in full before Visa documentation can be issued.
Project: Dairy calves are typically weaned from milk feeds onto solid, concentrate feeds at just 6 to 12 weeks of age. In this relatively short timeframe, their digestive system must develop from one designed to utilize just milk, to one that can effectively utilize solid feeds, to support continued growth and development after weaning. Recent research indicates that dairy farmers make the decision to wean their calves based on a target age, weight, or solid feed intake, with intakes approaching 2 kg per day considered necessary for a smooth weaning transition. The aim of this PhD project is to identify indicators of ‘readiness to wean’ in dairy-bred calves by examining growth, behavioral patterns, and metabolomic indicators associated with digestive system development. It seeks to facilitate a smooth weaning transition by investigating the relationship between pre-weaning solid feed intakes and these indicators. Additionally, the longer-term effects of early-life solid feed intakes on heifer growth and development will be evaluated.
Harper Adams University is one of the premier UK Higher Education institutions focused on the land-based and food supply chain sector. With around 2,800 undergraduate students, plus those completing postgraduate, research, and CPD programmes, Harper Adams University is the UK's largest single provider of higher education for these subjects. Harper Adams is consistently positioned highly in a range of national ratings, performance measures, and league tables. The University has been the highest performing modern university in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide for the last four years. In the 2020 guide, Harper Adams was named Modern University of the Year and runner-up University of the Year. In order to maintain and uphold the high standards of our research, we continue to undertake initiatives to ensure that integrity, ethics, and excellence are at the core of our research activities and fully embedded in our research culture.
Contact Detail:
Harper Adams University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Funded PhD Studentship: Feeding strategies to enhance the well-being of dairy calves during the[...]
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research on dairy calf nutrition and weaning strategies. This will not only help you understand the project better but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current or past PhD students at Harper Adams University, especially those in the Agriculture and Environment Department. They can provide insights into the application process and what to expect from the programme.
✨Tip Number 3
Attend relevant workshops or seminars related to animal nutrition and welfare. This will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the field when you apply.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions for your potential supervisors, Dr Emma Bleach and her team. Showing genuine interest in their work and the project can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Funded PhD Studentship: Feeding strategies to enhance the well-being of dairy calves during the[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the project's aims and objectives. Familiarise yourself with the specific feeding strategies and indicators of readiness to wean in dairy calves, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any relevant academic or research experience related to animal science, nutrition, or veterinary studies. Mention specific projects or coursework that align with the PhD focus.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that outlines your motivation for applying, your interest in dairy calf welfare, and how your background makes you a suitable candidate for this studentship. Be sure to connect your goals with the project's objectives.
Check Application Requirements: Ensure you have all necessary documents ready, including your CV, personal statement, and any academic transcripts. Pay attention to the closing date and submit your application through our website before the deadline.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harper Adams University
✨Understand the Research Project
Familiarise yourself with the specifics of the PhD project on dairy calf feeding strategies. Be prepared to discuss how your background and interests align with the research aims, particularly regarding weaning transitions and digestive system development.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Highlight any previous research or practical experience related to animal husbandry, nutrition, or veterinary science. Discuss specific projects or roles that demonstrate your skills and knowledge in these areas.
✨Prepare Questions for Your Supervisors
Think of insightful questions to ask Dr Emma Bleach and the other supervisors about their expectations, the research environment, and potential challenges in the project. This shows your genuine interest and engagement with the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Animal Welfare
Express your commitment to improving the well-being of dairy calves and your understanding of the ethical considerations involved in animal research. Share any relevant experiences that illustrate your dedication to this field.
