PhD Optimizing feed structure optimal and health of pigs and broilers

Organisation/Company KU LEUVEN Research Field Agricultural sciences » Zootechnics Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Final date to receive applications 6 Feb 2026 - 23:59 (UTC) Country Belgium Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Offer Starting Date 4 May 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Reference Number BAP-2026-32 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

During this doctoral research project, we aim to promote animal health and welfare without negatively impacting the growth performance by optimizing feed structure (particle size and distribution, and fiber fractions) of pigs and broiler diets. Furthermore, we aim to evaluate Near-Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIRS) as an inline method for determining feed structure in pellets, with the aim of achieving faster and more accurate analysis during feed production.

In the first year, the focus will be on gaining insight into the impact of feed technology on feed structure. This will be done in the new feed pilot atVO In the second and third years, the effects of feed structure on health and growth performance will be investigated. For this purpose, farm and slaughter house visits will be planned, with accompanying sampling and analysis of feed structure, scoring of gastrointestinal health, and evaluation of animal welfare.

Besides, pig and a broiler trials will be conducted at ILVO to further test the optimal feed structure. Intestinal health will be further investigated using macroscopic examination of the gastrointestinal tract, intestinal morphology and microbiota analysis. The potential of NIRS as a rapid analysis method within the feed line will be explored during both the farm visits and the planned animal trials.

We offer a 4-year PhD research position in a stimulating international work environment at one of the top-ranked universities in Europe. KU Leuven is a research-intensive, internationally-oriented university that conducts both fundamental and applied scientific research with a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and international excellence. You will be embedded in an experienced, dynamic and multi-disciplinary team, and will have the opportunity to work on innovative approaches with access to state‑of‑the-art facilities.

As part of your doctoral program at the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering (FBIW), you will have the possibility to engage in diverse training, educational and career development activities. You will be based in Leuven (KU Leuven) and in Merelbeke‑Melle (ILVO). Flexibility is thus highly important in being present in the location where needed for the research. For more information please contact Prof.

dr. Nadia Everaert, tel.: , mail:

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (have obtained distinction) preceded by a Bachelor’s degree, in bioscience engineering (animal or nutritional science, agricultural science), biology, veterinary science, biochemistry, or a related discipline.

They should demonstrate:

• A strong interest in poultry and pig feed evaluation, animal nutrition and gastrointestinal physiology
• An interest in sustainable livestock production
• Good analytical, problem-solving, and organisational skills
• Ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary and international research environment
• Willingness to perform animal trials
• Strong written and spoken English communication skills

These points are considered a plus:

• Being fluent in Dutch or willingness to learn Dutch
• First-hand lab experience
• Competence in data handling and statistical analysis (e.g. R, SAS, or similar tools)
• Having a driver licence