Equine PhD – Bristol Veterinary School
Epidemiological analyses of longevity of career in jumping horses
This is an exciting opportunity to undertake a PhD in equine epidemiology. The group you would join has worked with the FEI for a number of years using data-driven analysis to inform policy changes aimed at maximizing the welfare of the sport horse. This latest work has been initiated following concern regarding the duration of top-level jumping horses’ careers. The research will identify factors associated with career longevity, with a particular focus on competition intensity. We will work closely with the FEI to ensure that, where appropriate, the results of our analyses directly impact the welfare of this population of horses.
We intend to investigate firstly how severely any impact of competition intensity affects career longevity of horses at different ages in different levels of competition. Once a clear measure of the outcome of interest has been identified we will go on to identify exactly which factors (including competition intensity) contribute to the risk of shortened career length and then identify (with the FEI) regulatory changes aimed at prolonging career length.
We will use the more than 3-million FEI jumping results (2009-2023) to create different measures of career intensity. These will include, for example the number of competitions entered, and number of rounds completed (at different levels) in defined periods of time. In addition, all other available variables related to the horse and athlete will be included in multivariable regression models to account for their impact on the outcomes of interest. An opportunity to explore AI or Bayesian techniques to investigate these data will also be available, if deemed of use once the initial analyses are conducted. These secondary analyses would focus on determining the predictive ability of models with a view to the early identification of horses more likely to have shortened jumping careers.
You will gain research experience with a focus on applied epidemiological methods of statistical analysis. You will be trained in data exploration, manipulation and analysis, initially using different types of regression analysis to inform model development, dependent on the form of the outcome variable. You will either use ‘R’ or STATA for analyses and some understanding of the use of one of these software packages would be desirable, but not essential. Training in both/either will be provided.
In addition, there is a vast array of generic and transferable skills training available to all post-graduate students through the Bristol Doctoral College. Some understanding of the FEI and/or the sports horse industry would also be of benefit.
This project is well suited for a PhD training in an area of epidemiological research specifically aimed at having an impact ‘on the ground’. You will be supervised by an experienced supervisory team with complementary skill sets. The 3.5-year PhD is generously funded by the FEI and a private bequest to Bristol Veterinary School.
How to apply:
Further details and application information:
Epidemiological analyses of longevity of career in jumping horses <https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/epidemiological-analyses-of-longevity-of-career-in-jumping-horses/?p181455> on FindAPhD.com
Closing date 17th February 2025
Start date: From 1st May 2025
Enquiries:
Tim.Parkin@bristol.ac.uk