Livestock perception of human voices – investigating the perception of human voice cues in goats
Project Description
Dr. McElligott’s research group is focussed on developing goats as a
model species for comparative cognition and welfare studies. Prof.
Semple’s research group has developed and used a range of methods to
explore animal emotions. Traditionally, animal
welfare research has focussed on identifying and preventing poor
welfare. However, preventing poor welfare is not the same as providing
animals with opportunities to experience positive welfare. Therefore
gaining a better understanding of the cognitive abilities
of goats and other livestock is critical for progress. This research
will investigate how goats perceive different cues provided by human
voices.
The project will include behavioural observations, as well as
cognitive and playback experiments. All data collection will be carried
at an animal sanctuary, using a large number of habituated animals.
Requirements
The successful candidate will need to be able to work
independently, and as part of a team. They will receive appropriate
training for the research, e.g. bioacoustics and other technology for
studying behaviour and physiology (e.g. heart rates). It is
extremely important that the successful candidate maintains our
excellent working relationship with the host animal sanctuary, including
promoting the work of this organisation through social and other media.
Applicants should have at least a 2.1 Honours degree (or
equivalent) in Zoology, Psychology or a related subject and a relevant
Masters degree. International students are required to provide evidence
of their proficiency in English language skills.
A full, clean driving license is required.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should visit the Roehampton Graduate School website for details of the application process: https://www.roehampton.ac.uk/graduate-school/funding/ and for further details including references and contact information.
Closing Date: Midday on November 14, 2018
Interviews are expected to be held in the week commencing November 26, 2018.
Funding Notes
This PhD is fully-funded by the University of Roehampton,
Department of Life Sciences and covers Home/EU fees, as well as an
annual stipend at current Research Council rates. In addition to the
time spent on their PhD project, full-time students funded
by the university shall be available for the equivalent of 6 hours of
additional work per week over 40 weeks per year. Where this involves the
student undertaking teaching or teaching-related work, the time for
preparation, marking and related administration
shall be included in those six hours maximum per week. NB International
applicants would need to be able to pay the difference between Home/EU
and Overseas fees for the duration of the programme.