PhD Scholarship: Effects of Exercise and Hay on Pig Health, Welfare, and Gut-Brain Function Norwegian University of Life Sciences in Norway

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) is offering a 3-year PhD scholarship in the Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences. The project, FitPig, investigates whether daily physical activity and free access to hay can improve pig health, welfare, and gut-brain function. The research aims to identify reliable behavioral and physiological markers that signal good welfare and robust gut–brain health, with potential implications for science-based enrichment practices in the livestock industry.

The project is structured into four main parts: (1) examining how hay and physical activity affect behavior, social interactions, cognition, and welfare; (2) assessing the influence of hay and activity on physiological stress (cortisol), gut inflammation, and stomach ulcers; (3) studying effects on brain plasticity in regions linked to emotion and memory; and (4) integrating all data to understand how enrichment impacts the complex connections between brain, gut, and behavior.

The successful candidate will plan and conduct pig experiments, behavioral observations and tests, collect saliva samples for cortisol analysis, and perform statistical analysis. Collaboration with another PhD student at the School of Veterinary Science and the broader project team is expected. The candidate will process research data, publish findings in scientific journals, and complete mandatory PhD courses. Participation in seminars, workshops, and international conferences is encouraged.

Applicants must have a five-year master’s degree in animal science, biology, or a cand.med.vet. (veterinary) degree, with an ethology profile and preferably a master thesis in ethology. A strong academic background relevant to the position and proficiency in written and oral English are required. Experience with farm animals, ethology, animal welfare, data handling, statistical methods, behavioral observations, and animal behavior analyses will be emphasized. Candidates should be able to work independently and in teams, possess critical thinking skills, be motivated, structured, solution-oriented, and able to manage tasks and meet deadlines. Willingness to present at international conferences and publish papers is necessary, along with good communication and social skills.

The position offers a starting annual salary of NOK 550,800 and follows national guidelines for University and Technical College PhD scholars. The Faculty of Biosciences (BIOVIT) at NMBU is a leading center for research and teaching in biology and sustainable production and use of plants, livestock, and fish. BIOVIT is organized into seven research groups and offers bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs in relevant fields.

To apply, candidates must submit an online application via JobbNorge, including a motivation letter, complete CV, certified copies of academic diplomas and certificates, English translations if necessary, documentation of English proficiency, and names and contact details for two references. The application deadline is 8th May 2026. For further information, contact Professor Inger Lise Andersen at [email protected].

This opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about animal welfare, ethology, and interdisciplinary research in livestock health and behavior.