Postdoctoral Research Associate in Agricultural Robotics and Animal Health

Unviersity of Liverpool - The Academy; Liverpool City Region; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead microbiological research on dairy cattle health. The role involves conducting laboratory experiments, field sampling, and data analysis. Candidates should hold a PhD in microbiology and possess strong laboratory skills, with a commitment to sustainability and animal welfare. This innovative project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to livestock health and environmental sustainability.

Qualifications

• A PhD in microbiology, veterinary microbiology, or a closely related field.
• Proven experience in microbiological laboratory techniques, including bacterial culture and molecular methods like PCR.
• A track record of publication and strong scientific writing skills.
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• A willingness to travel to commercial farms for sampling and data collection.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in vitro bacterial culture experiments to determine how temperature and humidity affect growth.
• Perform on-farm environmental sampling and teat-end swabbing.
• Evaluate the relationship between cubicle hygiene, teat cleanliness, and overall milk quality.
• Analyse data and contribute to publications and presentations.
• Collaborate with engineers and veterinarians on the AG ARC effectiveness.

Skills

Microbiological laboratory techniques

Bacterial culture

Molecular methods like PCR

Scientific writing

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in microbiology or related field

Degree in Veterinary Medicine

Job description

Overview

This is an exciting opportunity to join a cutting-edge, multidisciplinary project at the intersection of microbiology, animal health, and agricultural robotics. In a collaboration between the University of Liverpool and AG Products Ltd., you will play a key role in evaluating the impact of a novel autonomous robotic bedding unit (AG ARC) on dairy cattle health.

This project aims to reduce environmental mastitis in dairy herds by improving cubicle hygiene through intelligent, sensor-driven automation. By contributing to this research, you'll be at the forefront of precision livestock farming, helping to enhance animal welfare, reduce antibiotic use, and support a more sustainable dairy industry. You will work alongside Dr. Joe Neary and Professor Rob Smith, leaders in livestock health research with an excellent track record of mentoring early career researchers.

The Role

As the Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will lead the microbiological aspects of the project. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Conducting in vitro bacterial culture experiments to determine how temperature and humidity affect the growth of mastitis-causing pathogens.
• Performing on-farm environmental sampling of dairy cubicles and teat-end swabbing to gather real-world data.
• Evaluating the relationship between cubicle hygiene, teat cleanliness, and overall milk quality.
• Analysing data and contributing to the writing of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
• Collaborating closely with our project partners, including engineers and veterinarians, to assess the effectiveness of the AG ARC machine.

About You

This position is ideally suited to a microbiologist with strong laboratory skills and an interest in applied animal health research.

Essential Criteria

• A PhD in microbiology, veterinary microbiology, or a closely related field.
• Proven experience in microbiological laboratory techniques, including bacterial culture and molecular methods like PCR.
• A track record of publication and strong scientific writing skills.
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• A willingness to travel to commercial farms for sampling and data collection.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience working with livestock, particularly dairy cattle.
• A degree in Veterinary Medicine (MRCVS or equivalent).
• Familiarity with environmental sampling techniques and milk quality assessment.

If you are still awaiting your PhD to be awarded you will be appointed at Grade 6, spine point 30. Upon written confirmation that you have been awarded your PhD, your salary will be increased to Grade 7, spine point 31.

Commitment to Diversity

The University of Liverpool is committed to enhancing workforce diversity. We actively seek to attract, develop, and retain colleagues with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all genders/gender identities, Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, individuals living with a disability, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.