PhD: Welfare and behaviour implications of virtual fencing

Project Title: CSIRO iPhD scholarship: Welfare and behaviour implications of virtual fencing in northern beef cow-calf systems

4 years, Full-time appointment

Multiple locations including Darwin/ Brisbane/ Alice Springs/ Sydney

Domestic Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend

$47,000/year

About the Opportunity:

While virtual fencing technology has proven effective in managing grazing and land use when all animals wear neckbands, its application in cow-calf systems is limited, as calves cannot wear neckbands before weaning due to their rapid growth, the high labour demands for fitting, and mismothering risk if cows and calves are disturbed. However, for most northern Australian beef properties, grazing areas are large, cow-calf systems are common, and calves remain with their mothers until weaning, presenting challenges for implementation of the technology in these systems. Research on how non-fenced calves influence cow behaviour, fence efficacy and welfare for both cow and calf is lacking, creating uncertainty for northern beef producers considering tech adoption. Furthermore, the lack of peer-reviewed evidence on welfare impacts in cow-calf systems could lead to regulatory restrictions on virtual fencing in these contexts. This project therefore addresses the challenges of implementing virtual fencing in northern Australian cow-calf systems. This research is significant as it will provide some of the first peer-reviewed evidence on the efficacy and welfare implications of virtual fencing in cow-calf systems. Understanding its impact on cow and calf behaviour will help determine whether the technology can be adopted in northern Australia. The findings will inform best practices, support regulatory decision-making, and offer insights for producers seeking sustainable land management solutions. By addressing knowledge gaps, this project has the potential to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve environmental outcomes in northern Australian beef production.

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About You:

• Australian/New Zealand citizen or Australian permanent resident
• A research background (Honours or Masters) in agriculture, animal science, veterinary science or similar
• Hold an Australian driving license or the capacity to obtain one
• Would ideally be based or willing to relocate to Darwin or Katherine, other locations possible by negotiation

Desirable Criteria:

• Cattle handling skills

How to Apply:

• A curriculum vitae, including a list of any peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and relevant work and/or research experience
• A brief statement not exceeding 500-words in length that explains why you are interested in this research project/area

If you are interested in this opportunity, please send an expression of interest and a CV to Professor Beth Penrose at For more information, please contact Beth on

Note: The supervisor will invite applicants who pass the expression of interest stage to submit scholarship applications before closing date. Please do not submit any applications unless you are invited by the supervisor.

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