Doctoral Studentship (PhD): Enhancing traceability, transparency and equine welfare in sport horse breeding using assisted reproductive techniques

Hartpury University and the World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses (WBFSH) are pleased to offer an exciting opportunity for a fees funded PhD project studying sport horse welfare during breeding using assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs). Building on previous projects, this work aims to apply a holistic approach working with WBFSH and industry stakeholders to to generate a profile of current practice in ART use across sport horse breeding, to understand cultural differences and influences underpinning ART use globally and to evaluate their implications to horse welfare. The results will inform good practice guidance and support future WBFSH education initiatives in this area.

The project will apply a mixed methods approach and would suit a student with an interest in equine welfare and breeding. The project will involve extensive industry consultation therefore the ideal candidate will be possess strong communication, relationship-building, and analytical skills and be confident working in new environments.

For more information and for an initial discussion please contact:
Prof Jane Williams jane.williams@hartpury.ac.uk.

PhD Studentship Selection Criteria:

Please demonstrate the following criteria in your CV and/or covering letter:

• Essential: Undergraduate degree and MSc in a field relating to the project.
• Essential: Strong communication, relationship-building, qualitative research and analytical skills.
• Desirable: Experience of working with others in a research setting and / or practical experience of the equine welfare or breeding sector.
• Desirable: Proficiency in an additional language/s and willingness to travel.

Candidates should also be aware of the following:

The normal expectation is that applicants will hold a 1^St or a Masters qualification from a UK university or a degree of comparable standing from a university outside the UK. The candidate’s degree relevant to the studentship should demonstrate their potential for practice-led research or alternative evidence of research aptitude.

Applicants whose first language is not English require a recognised English language qualification. The minimum entry requirement is GCSE English at grade C or above or IELTS score 7.0 or TOEFL score 600 (or demonstrable equivalent).

Applying for a PhD studentship

To apply for a PhD studentship, you must send the following documents RKE.Administrator@hartpury.ac.uk:

• A curriculum vitae (maximum 3 pages).
• Copies of academic transcripts.
• A covering letter outlining your suitability for the studentship.
• Your undergraduate or postgraduate dissertation or another relevant piece of research you have completed or contributed to.
• If English is not your first language, certification of English language qualification.

There will be a two-stage interview process.

Key Dates:

06/11/25 Midnight (UK time): Deadline for submission of applications

Week commencing 10/11/25: Stage 1 Interviews (online)*

20/11/25: Stage 2 Interviews at Hartpury*

28/11/25: Deadline for accepting studentship

January 2026: Studentship starts

*All applicants must ensure their availability on these dates.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.  All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks. 

Hartpury values a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

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