Sow Welfare & Behavior Research Associate

University of Pennsylvania; Kennett Square (Chester County); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Pennsylvania’s Department of Clinical Studies – New Bolton Center seeks a Research Associate to advance non-invasive, automated approaches to sow welfare assessment. The role involves on-farm experiments, data collection with advanced sensors, and collaborative work with experts in behavior, engineering, and data science.

You will execute controlled behavioral tests, implement computer vision systems, and analyze large datasets to inform housing improvements, while mentoring

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field (animal behavior, welfare, or science).
• Experience with animal behavioral research.
• Strong analytical and statistical skills.
• Proficiency in R or similar tools.
• Ability to work independently and on farms.

Responsibilities

• Design, coordinate, and conduct controlled behavioral experiments.
• Manage and execute on-farm research trials, including animal handling and monitoring.
• Implement and support computer vision systems for automated behavioral tracking.
• Collect and process biological samples (e.g., salivary cortisol).
• Conduct biomarker assays on these biological samples.
• Conduct behavioral assays such as open field and novel object tests.
• Process and analyze large datasets using statistical tools.
• Contribute to publications and reports.
• Train and mentor students.

Skills

Animal behavior research

Statistical analysis

R programming

Independent work

Farm work

Education

PhD in animal science/behavior/welfare

Tools

R

Job description

University of Pennsylvania’s Department of Clinical Studies – New Bolton Center seeks a Research Associate to advance non-invasive, automated approaches to sow welfare assessment. The role involves on-farm experiments, data collection with advanced sensors, and collaborative work with experts in behavior, engineering, and data science.

You will execute controlled behavioral tests, implement computer vision systems, and analyze large datasets to inform housing improvements, while mentoring