YOUR TASKS

• Development of white box machine learning methods, i.e. methods for learning explainable models that can be interpreted and understood by human experts
• Our aim is to develop methods that are able to learn models from farm data for classifying situations and status of animals automatically; e.g., researchers at Vetmeduni Vienna will be provided with the methods developed here to optimize parturition management in cows and pigs

PhD candidates for the Doctoral Program on Precision Livestock Farming (https://www.vetmeduni.ac.at/plf-doc): The doctoral program ‘PLFDoc - Precision Livestock Farming’ (PLFDoc) is a collaborative project involving the TU Wien, the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria (Campus Hagenberg), and the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna. This interdisciplinary training program offers five PhD candidates the opportunity to work as a team on contributing to a more sustainable agriculture with improved livestock farming. The research focus consists of applied basic research, particularly in the application of methods of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) as well as image and video analysis (Computer Vision, CV), to be used for monitoring livestock.

YOUR PROFILE

• Master or equivalent degree in computer science, data science or engineering
• Fluent English in writing, reading and speaking (Level B1)
• Interest in data analysis, programming, animal behaviour, welfare and health
• Knowledge in computer programming (e.g. C++, Python, Java, MATLAB, R)
• Ability to conduct research relatively independently
• Experience with deep learning frameworks would be a plus
• Scientific publications would be a plus

To help us make an informed decision, we require two letters of recommendation as part of the application process. Each recommendation letter should be provided by someone who can speak to your skills, experience, character, and work performance. References may include former managers, colleagues, professors, or professional contacts.

ABOUT US

As the most research-intensive university of applied sciences in Austria, with nearly 6000 students in over 70 degree programs, we teach and research with a strong practical orientation and the highest quality.Thus, we have been providing top education for the next generation for more than 25 years and invest in the future of Upper Austria with great pleasure. At the Hagenberg Campus, we are driving the digital revolution forward and score points with an impressive "Silicon Valley" in the middle of the beautiful Mühlviertel region. Our university offers the ideal environment for forward-looking and innovative research projects. With an excellent order volume of about 40 million Euros, more than 500 projects are being carried out with a total of 630 partners from business and society. The Upper Austrian University of Applied Sciences is a place for people with curiosity and spirit of discovery. Shape the future together with us! #AllAboutYourCareer

The FH Upper Austria stands for equal opportunities and diversity. With this in mind, we specifically invite all to apply. For this position, we offer a gross monthly salary (on a full-time basis, 14x per year) starting at EUR 3.200 (depending on eligible prior service). This position is limited for 4 years.