PhD Opportunity in Denmark: Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cow Longevity Using AI-Camera Body Weight Data

Aarhus University (Graduate School of Technical Sciences) — Applications Open Until 4 January 2026

Aarhus University, Denmark — one of Europe’s leading institutions in livestock genetics — has re-advertised a fully funded PhD fellowship in the Quantitative Genetics & Genomics Programme, focusing on artificial intelligence, advanced phenotyping, and dairy cow longevity.

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Project Overview

This project uses the CowFIT 3D AI-camera system, which records body weight data from over 30,000 dairy cows, combined with the Danish Cattle Database to develop advanced breeding and management tools for sustainable dairy farming.

• Improve longevity and productive lifespan of dairy cows
• Model calving weight, maturity, and energy balance
• Advance genomic accuracy for traits such as longevity, Saved Feed, and functional traits
• Use AI, statistical modelling, and genetic software tools

Eligibility Criteria

• Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Animal Breeding/Genetics or related field
• Experience with R, SAS, Python, Unix Shell
• Knowledge of genetic software (DMU, F90, AIREML)
• Strong English writing and communication skills
• Experience with livestock datasets (advantage)

Place of Employment

Aarhus University, C.F. Møllers Allé 3, Building 1130, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.

Supervisors & Contact

Main Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Emre Karaman — emre@qgg.au.dk
Co-Supervisor: Postdoc Rasmus Bak Stephansen — rasmus.stephansen@qgg.au.dk
Application Queries: admission.gradschool.tech@au.dk

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: 4 January 2026 (23:59 CET)
• Preferred Start Date: 1 March 2026

Note: Applicants must upload the project description. You may copy the same description provided in the official advertisement and upload it as a PDF.