Postdoctoral Researcher (Animal Science & Nutrition)

Prairie View A&M University • Prairie View, TX

9d • Onsite

About The Position

The postdoctoral researcher will undertake research at the International Goat Research Center. The primary objective of the research project is to identify the most efficient goats for meat production by assessing residual feed intake (RFI), feed conversion efficiency, and specific biomarkers. These biomarkers play a crucial role in regulating animal growth, feed intake, and rumen fermentation. The research will utilize the GrowSafe Feeding System and GreenFeed gas analyzer instrument. Additionally, the lab's long-term goals include exploring the synergistic effects of natural feed additives, such as hemp biomass products, which have the potential to reduce the environmental impact of goats by lowering methane emissions. Methane emissions of goats will be measured using GreenFeed. The candidate will also engage in studies aimed at developing feeding strategies for spent hemp biomass (SHB), translating fundamental goat research into practical applications for goat production. Therefore, a solid understanding of both basic and applied animal science, as well as ruminant nutrition, is essential for this position. This position is funded by a grant or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of grant or restricted funding. The salary is determined in accordance with the University’s compensation structure and will be commensurate with the candidates’ education and experience, within the assigned salary range for this position.

Requirements

• A PhD in Animal Nutrition, Animal Science, and Animal Physiology or related fields
• No prior experience required.
• Research experience in animal feeding trials using automated feeding systems such as GrowSafe Technology.
• Skill of using the GreenFeed Chamber gas analyzer on small ruminant animals.
• Experience in analyzing feed efficiency, including Residual Feed Intake in small ruminant.
• Publications in peer-reviewed journals (Journal of Animal Science, Journal of Dairy Science, and Small Ruminant Research).

Nice To Haves

• Skills in blood sample and biomarker collection and analysis.
• In vivo experiment in a confined system.
• Strong skills in statistical software relevant to animal data.
• Ration formulation and diet preparation for experiments.
• Laboratory work on feed nutrient analysis, blood, and feces.
• Skill in gas analysis (methane, Carbon dioxide from animal burping collected from GreeFeed and feces).

Responsibilities

• Collect feed samples, body weights, body condition scores, and blood samples; assess biochemical properties; conduct feed analysis and related data collection.
• Design experiments and conduct feeding trials using goats.
• Provide day-to-day animal husbandry during experimental trials.
• Extract feeding behavior data, including bunk visits, feeding rate, and feeding duration.
• Conduct statistical data analysis using current software and develop programming to calculate residual feed intake.
• Prepare manuscripts, research reports, and publications.
• Train and supervise technicians and undergraduate students.
• Participates in college-wide events and professional developments.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree