Open positions for internships or MSc projects 

No open position at the moment. 

 

 

 

 

Previous offers: 

Master's Student Internship in Equine Research

  • Duration: 4 - 6 months between July and December 2024
  • Location: Department of Biology, University of Turku, Finland
  • Supervisor: Océane Liehrmann https://oceane-liehrmann.webador.fr/

 

Project Overview: This internship offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the advancement of equine welfare assessment through the application of state-of-the-art infrared thermal imaging technology. Working under the guidance of researchers experts in their field, participants will investigate the intricate relationship between facial temperature variations and equine emotional states and pain perception. Through analysis of video data collected during experiments conducted on horses in 2023, interns will acquire invaluable skills in behavioral coding, data extraction from thermal imaging videos, and statistical analysis methods.

 

Profile Seeking: I am seeking for an enthusiastic student completing an MSc degree in behavioral ecology, ethology, or physiology. Previous experience with horses and knowledge of equine behaviors will be preferred. Proficiency in English is required, as the team is international. Basic knowledge of statistical analyses and R programming would be appreciated.

 

Place and Conditions of the Internship: The internship will be hosted at the University of Turku, Finland. Unfortunately, I am unable to provide financial assistance. Non Finnish applicants must  secure travel grants, research grants, or join with exchange program such as Erasmus to cover living expenses in Finland.

 

The Team and Supervision Support: Under the guidance of Dr. Océane Liehrmann and team leader Virpi Lummaa, you will be welcomed into the vibrant research environment of the Lummaa Lab ( https://lummaalab.utu.fi/ ). Engage in research group activities, weekly meetings, and collaborative discussions.

 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Code horse behavior using specialized software from experiments involving various emotional stimuli.
  • Extract and analyze heart rate variations and thermal imaging data.
  • Assist in statistical analyses to identify correlations between behavioral responses, heart rate, and facial temperature variation.

 

Requirements:

  • Currently enrolled in a Master's program in a relevant field (animal sciences, veterinary degree, physiology…).
  • If you are in a gap year, you must ensure to be associated with a university which will provide internship contract.
  • Funding source from Travel or research grant or possibility to benefit from exchange programs such as Erasmus

Benefits:

  • Hands-on experience in research using infrared thermal imaging
  • Training in behavioral coding software.
  • Insight into equine behavior and welfare research.
  • Mentorship from experienced researchers.
  • Potential for authorship on academic publications.

Application Process: To apply, please submit a cover letter outlining your interest in the project, relevant experience, and how your skills align with the requirements outlined above. Additionally, include a current CV highlighting your academic background and any research experience.

Deadline: June 10th followed by online interviews the next week.

For inquiries and to submit your application, please contact me through the contact form.

Testimonies from former students I supervised

Melissa Gagnière: "I had the opportunity to be supervised by Océane for my 7-months internship. We worked on the effect of owner’s familiarity on reindeer behaviours in Lapland. Océane was an amazing supervisor; she was very instructive and helpful. She taught me wonderfully (and patiently!) how to conduct scientific research and writing. I really enjoyed our time spent together! " 

MSc student internship 

Topic: Human-reindeer relationship 

dates: 02.2022-08.2022

Camille Cosnard: "Océane was the best supervisor I could have dreamed of ! She is kind and gives a lot of useful advices. This internship was my best experience, I learned a lot of things and I validated my Master thesis largely thanks to her help." 

MSc student internship 

Topic: Human-horse communication 

dates: 01.2022-06.2022

Alisa Viitanen: "It has been amazing to work with Océane. She is very supportive, gentle and understanding, and she makes you feel heard and appreciated. She is very good at teaching, always willing to help and helps you grow constantly" 

BSc and MSc student projects

Topic: Human-horse relationship

dates: 3.2021 – 2.2022 / 9.2022 - ongoing