In June 2025, Dr. Lisa Jung from Stiftung Tierärztliche Hochschule in Hannover, Germany traveled to Ljubljana, Slovenia, for a Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) under the LIFT CA 21124 COST Action. Hosted by Prof. Manja Zupan Šemrov and her team at the Institute of Biotechnical Sciences, Lisa’s visit focused on the project “Good health as a prerequisite of positive welfare in domestic fowl (Gallus gallus domesticus).”
The main goal of the STSM was to finalize a joint scientific paper on positive welfare indicators in chickens. Lisa and Manja spent the first two days intensively editing and refining the manuscript, ensuring consistency in language and structure, while strengthening the scientific message. In-depth discussions helped improve the clarity and flow of the paper, especially the complex discussion section, which benefited greatly from face-to-face collaboration.
Working side by side in Ljubljana created a vibrant and creative atmosphere. Brainstorming sessions and real-time feedback made the editing process not only efficient but also inspiring. On the third day, Lisa visited the technical facilities at the institute, where she explored how the paper’s findings could be translated into practical methods. The exchange also sparked new ideas for adapting these methods in collaboration with the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover.
The visit didn’t just bring the publication closer to submission—it also laid the foundation for future collaboration. Lisa and Manja began drafting a joint research proposal under the ARIS–DFG Collaboration framework, within the Weave Lead Agency Initiative. This new project aims to test key welfare indicators from their paper in real farming conditions, both for poultry and pigs.
If funded, the project will offer PhD positions at both institutions and promote international collaboration among young researchers. For Lisa, the STSM was a valuable opportunity to deepen her understanding of positive welfare in poultry and to strengthen cross-border scientific ties.
