Postdoctoral Research Fellow in AI Camera Analytics for Aquaculture Welfare
Develop AI-driven welfare assessment tools for sustainable aquaculture using computer vision and behavioural science.
Best for:Best for postdoctoral researchers with expertise in fish welfare, video-based behavioural analysis, and AI/computer vision applied to biological data.
Overview
This postdoctoral position at the University of Stirling’s Institute of Aquaculture focuses on advancing AI camera analytics for monitoring fish and shrimp welfare in commercial aquaculture. The successful candidate will lead the validation of novel electrical stunning technologies and underwater camera systems for detecting welfare indicators, sea lice, and individual fish identification. The role involves designing behavioural studies, annotating video data, and collaborating with industry partners to deploy and refine AI/computer vision models. The project aligns with global sustainability goals (UN SDG 14) and aims to improve humane slaughter methods and precision monitoring in aquaculture. The postholder will contribute to high-impact publications and support research training within the team.
What you'll do
- Lead the development of behavioural welfare indicators from video footage of Pacific whiteleg shrimp, rainbow trout, and carp.
- Coordinate laboratory-based recording campaigns and human annotation of welfare states for AI model training.
- Collaborate with industry partners to specify, train, and evaluate AI/computer vision models for automated welfare assessment.
- Oversee field deployments of camera systems at commercial aquaculture sites for validation and testing.
- Support the development of underwater camera configurations for detecting sea lice, wounds, and individual fish identification in Atlantic salmon.
- Contribute to high-impact publications and disseminate research findings through academic journals and conference proceedings.
- Support the training and mentorship of research staff and students involved in related welfare and aquaculture technology projects.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., Animal Behaviour, Computer Science, Biology, or related field)
Language: English (proficiency sufficient for academic research and collaboration)
Instruction: English
Publications: Contribution to internationally excellent publications
- Proven experience in fish welfare and behaviour research, preferably with aquatic species.
- Practical skills in video-based behavioural analysis and annotation.
- Experience applying computer vision or machine learning methods to biological data.
- Proficiency in R or Python for data analysis.
- Experience designing and conducting laboratory-based animal behaviour studies.
- No explicit eligibility restrictions mentioned beyond PhD completion.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-18
Applicants must submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the role through the University of Stirling’s online application portal. Additional documents may be requested during the application process.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Proof of PhD completion (if not already submitted)
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