A PhD degree involves specialist study, postgraduate training and original and independent research on a specific topic under the supervision of academic members of staff in the school. Additional supervisors consisting of at least one other experienced member of staff (up to a maximum of three staff members) will also be carried out in the school or in collaboration with industrial partners, other university departments in Nottingham or other universities and private or publicly funded research institutes. In some cases students will spend time at international academic establishments or research institutes. Students undertaking the three year PhD complete a structured training programme in the first year of study. Progression through the period of study is closely monitored through regular meetings with the students' supervisory committee and by reviews with an international progress committee in years one and two. The aim of the Population Health group is to develop outstanding health and welfare in domestic animals with a current emphasis on endemic diseases of dairy cattle. The group’s activities include fundamental and applied research, undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, clinical disease investigations and knowledge transfer to the veterinary profession and farming industry. Current research interests include epidemiological approaches to controlling mastitis using Bayesian approaches to modelling and prediction (Green), investigation and control of lameness (Huxley, Green), the use of biotechnology such as pedometers and global positioning (Green, Huxley) and the effects of nutrition on health and production (Kendall, Green, Huxley).