Department of Clinical Sciences

We are looking for a PhD veterinarian to work on a research project about subcutaneous inflammation (cellulitis) in chickens. Cellulitis is caused by infection with Escherichia coli bacteria. A contributing factor to the infection is likely skin damage that occurs during the later part of the rearing period. The disease causes mortality on farms and culling at slaughter and likely has a negative impact on the welfare of the chickens. Cellulitis is one of the most common causes of culling, and its prevalence varies between different farms.

About the job

The purpose of the project is to investigate the occurrence of different types of skin injuries in chickens both during the rearing period and at slaughter, as well as to find out how and when these skin injuries occur. The project also includes a field study where chicken flocks will be vaccinated against E. coli to evaluate the effect against cellulitis. The tasks include clinical examination of chickens on farms and assessment of skin injuries after slaughter. The project involves data handling and statistical analysis to investigate and evaluate whether vaccination can reduce the incidence of cellulitis. Additionally, it includes writing scientific peer-reviewed articles for publication in international scientific journals and developing own research proposals. Project funding is available for three years at a scope of 50%.

Your background

A doctoral degree in veterinary medicine is required for the position. Experience working independently with clinical examination, pathology, epidemiology, and statistics is an advantage. Knowledge and experience in poultry medicine is desirable but not a requirement. A driving license, good language skills (Swedish and English), and an interest in knowledge communication are requested since parts of the project will be conducted on farms in collaboration with breeders. We also value that the applicant has experience in planning and developing research independently and in groups.

Selection among qualified applicants is primarily based on a written application that includes a cover letter, CV, publication list, and personal references. In the case of equally qualified applicants, candidates will be assessed through an interview, where personal qualities will be given great importance.

About us

The Department of Clinical Sciences is responsible for undergraduate education, research, and doctoral education in the fields of veterinary medicine, animal care, and pet science. The department's activities mainly concern our common Swedish domesticated animal species with a focus on anesthesiology, imaging diagnostics, animal care, epidemiology, laboratory animal medicine, surgery, clinical chemistry, medicine, and pet reproduction. The subject of pig and poultry medicine includes diagnostics, medical and surgical treatment, and disease prevention at the individual and herd level.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/ (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/)

Location:

Uppsala

Employment type:

Permanent position. SLU may apply a probationary period.

Scope:

50%

Start date:

By agreement.

Application:

Welcome with your application via the application button below by 2025-04-04.

Union contact persons:

https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/ (https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/)

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) plays a key role in the development of sustainable living, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interactions between humans, animals, and ecosystems, and responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Main locations are Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but activities are also conducted at research stations, experimental parks, and educational sites throughout the country.

SLU has over 3000 employees, 5000 students and doctoral candidates, and a turnover of over three billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campuses. We strive for an equal and inclusive working environment where open conversations between people with different experiences lay the foundation for scientific rigor, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply for the current position.