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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to research sustainable livestock systems and shape future food agendas.
- Company: University of Reading, a leader in innovative agricultural research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, collaborative environment, and opportunities for impactful research.
- Other info: Engage with diverse partners and contribute to high-quality publications.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in sustainability transitions within the agri-food sector.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field with experience in livestock systems and sustainability research.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Join a dynamic research team at the University of Reading as a Postdoctoral Researcher in Livestock Systems, contributing to a Horizon 2020 research initiative focused on sustainability transitions in European livestock systems. This full-time, fixed-term role (until 31 August 2026) is embedded within the PATHWAYS project, which brings together interdisciplinary expertise to evaluate and guide sustainable food and agriculture futures.
The post offers an exceptional opportunity to synthesise results from model-based sustainability assessments (such as life‑cycle assessments, spatial analysis, and scenario modelling) to identify optimal pathways for future livestock systems and contribute to shaping forward‑looking research agendas. Critical contributions include integrating and interpreting existing research outputs, designing stakeholder and scientific workshops, producing project deliverables and peer‑reviewed publications, and engaging with a diverse range of partners across the agri‑food sector in Europe. Applicants will be part of a collaborative team that values inclusive research co‑creation with farmers, supply‑chain actors, NGOs, policymakers and citizens.
Eligibility Criteria
A successful candidate will hold a PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline within the natural or social sciences with a clear focus on food, agriculture or sustainability, and will demonstrate research experience pertinent to livestock systems.
Expertise, Skills
- Essential skills include strong analytical and organisational capability for synthesising complex quantitative assessments, designing and facilitating structured methods (such as workshops or interviews), and contributing to high-quality research outputs.
- Experience of working with multidisciplinary teams, conducting structured stakeholder engagements and contributing to publications and presentations is expected.
- Additional desirable skills include familiarity with qualitative analysis software, LCA tools, coding languages (such as R or Python) and the ability to work independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary environment.
Salary Details
The role offers a competitive salary in the range of £36,636 to £46,049 per year, commensurate with experience.
Application Deadline
Applications were invited to be submitted by 31 January 2026 at 23:59 GMT.
Postdoctoral Researcher in Livestock Systems – Postdoctoral Researcher in Livestock Systems in England employer: RFCSR
Contact Detail:
RFCSR Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Researcher in Livestock Systems – Postdoctoral Researcher in Livestock Systems in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the University of Reading or the PATHWAYS project. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that postdoc position.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your research experience and any relevant projects. When you get the chance to meet with potential collaborators or interviewers, this will help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t wait for job postings to come to you. Keep an eye on the University of Reading’s website and other platforms for opportunities. If you see something that fits, apply directly through our site to make sure your application gets noticed.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by understanding the project’s goals and challenges. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in sustainable livestock systems. This way, you can engage in meaningful discussions and show how your expertise aligns with their vision.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Researcher in Livestock Systems – Postdoctoral Researcher in Livestock Systems in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Postdoctoral Researcher in Livestock Systems. Highlight your relevant experience in sustainability, livestock systems, and any interdisciplinary work you've done. We want to see how your background fits with our PATHWAYS project!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our team. Be specific about your skills in analytical methods and stakeholder engagement, and don’t forget to mention any experience with workshops or publications!
Showcase Your Research Experience: In your application, emphasise your research experience related to livestock systems and sustainability. Include any relevant projects, methodologies, or tools you've used, especially if they align with model-based assessments or qualitative analysis software. We love seeing concrete examples!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved!
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and how it relates to livestock systems. Be prepared to discuss your PhD work and any relevant projects, especially those that align with sustainability transitions. This will show your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Prepare for Interdisciplinary Questions
Since this role involves working with diverse teams, expect questions about collaboration and communication. Think of examples where you've successfully worked with people from different backgrounds or disciplines, and be ready to share how you facilitated discussions or workshops.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Highlight your experience with quantitative assessments and tools like LCA or coding languages. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve used these skills to solve problems or contribute to research outputs. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the analytical demands of the role.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t just answer questions; engage with your interviewers. Ask them about their current projects or challenges they face in the PATHWAYS project. This shows your interest in the team and the work, and it can lead to a more dynamic conversation.