At a Glance
- Tasks: Explore digital technologies in animal health and welfare through innovative research.
- Company: University of Nottingham's School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, renowned for world-class research.
- Benefits: Fully funded studentship with access to industry links and training in welfare science.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on animal welfare and human-animal interactions using cutting-edge digital tools.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2.1 undergraduate degree or 2.2 degree plus Master's in relevant fields.
- Other info: Join a dynamic research group with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
Area: Veterinary Medicine & Science
Location: UK Other
Closing Date: Friday 27 March 2026
Reference: MED2048
Principal supervisor: Charlotte Doidge
Other supervisors: Jasmeet Kaler, Jorge Vazquez Diosdado, Alexandra Lang
Background: Research at the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science includes established world class research groups. 85% of our research is classed as "world-leading" (4*) or "internationally excellent" (3*) and our research collaborations and networks extend nationally and internationally. Research undertaken at the School is relevant to both Veterinary Medicine and Science, One Health, and Comparative and Human Medicine.
Project description: Digital technologies are increasingly used to support animal health and welfare, yet their success depends on how farmers, animals, and systems interact. This PhD will explore the use of the Epiherd digital platform through a One Welfare and human-animal-computer interaction lens, examining how digital tools shape farmer-cow relationships, perceptions of care, and welfare-related decisions. The project will investigate how farmers engage with technology in real-world settings, how digital insights influence decision-making, and how the technology affects human and animal experiences on dairy farms. It will also explore associations between technology use and herd-level outcomes such as health, welfare, and responsible medicine use.
The student will use a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews, behavioural and social science perspectives, user-centred or participatory design methods, and quantitative analysis of farm data. The goal is to understand how digital dairy technologies can be designed and implemented to support mutual wellbeing across the human-animal-technology system.
The PhD is based within the Ruminant Population Health group at the University of Nottingham’s School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, with access to the Centre for Dairy Science Innovation (CDSI), strong industry links, and training in welfare science, digital innovation, and mixed-methods research. This project is ideal for candidates interested in animal welfare, human-animal interaction, digital technologies, and interdisciplinary approaches to livestock care.
Further information and Application: Applicants should have a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree or a minimum of a 2.2 degree and a Master’s degree in Agriculture, Animal Science, Veterinary Science, Psychology, User Experience, Social science or similar subjects. Informal enquiries may be addressed to the principal supervisor: Charlotte Doidge charlotte.doidge@nottingham.ac.uk Candidates should apply online and include a CV. When completing the online application form, please select the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, then PhD Veterinary Medicine and Science (36m) and, once submitted, send your student ID number to SV-PG-VET@exmail.nottingham.ac.uk. Any queries regarding the application process should be addressed to SV-PG-VET@exmail.nottingham.ac.uk.
Start Date: 1st July 2026
Closing date: 27th March 2026
Eligibility for Funding: This is a fully funded studentship open to UK nationals. Fee status will be assessed upon application.
PhD in Veterinary Digital Health & One Health in Nottingham employer: University Of Nottingham
Contact Detail:
University Of Nottingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD in Veterinary Digital Health & One Health in Nottingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the veterinary and digital health fields on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, attend webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in veterinary digital health. Familiarise yourself with the Epiherd platform and think about how you can contribute to the project. We want to see your passion and knowledge shine through when you chat with potential supervisors!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently. We’re here to support you, so don’t hesitate to reach out for feedback on your responses.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and enthusiasm for the PhD project. We’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
We think you need these skills to ace PhD in Veterinary Digital Health & One Health in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the PhD project. We want to see how your background in animal science, digital technologies, or social science can contribute to our research.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this project and how your interests in animal welfare and human-animal interaction make you a great fit for our team.
Follow Application Instructions: When applying, be sure to follow the instructions carefully. Select the right programme and send your student ID number as requested. We appreciate attention to detail!
Reach Out with Questions: If you have any queries about the application process or the project itself, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at SV-PG-VET@exmail.nottingham.ac.uk. We're here to help you through the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at University Of Nottingham
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the specifics of the project and the research groups at the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science. Familiarise yourself with the Epiherd digital platform and how it relates to One Health and animal welfare. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Prepare for Mixed-Methods Discussion
Since the project involves a mixed-methods approach, be ready to discuss both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Think about how you would apply these methods in real-world settings, especially regarding farmer-cow interactions and technology use.
✨Showcase Your Interdisciplinary Skills
Highlight any experience or knowledge you have in areas like animal science, psychology, or user experience. Be prepared to explain how these disciplines can contribute to the success of the project and enhance the human-animal-technology relationship.
✨Engage with the Supervisors
Don’t hesitate to ask insightful questions during the interview. Engage with the principal supervisor and other panel members about their research interests and how they align with yours. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and willingness to collaborate.