"Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term"

Position Summary

The Data-Driven Research & Innovation in Veterinary Epidemiology Lab (DRIVE lab) at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University is seeking applicants for a 12-month, 100%-time postdoctoral associate.

This position is intended for candidates with strong training in quantitative epidemiology, data analysis, and population-level disease research, who are interested in advancing management strategies and disease prevention and control in dairy cattle populations. Applicants with expertise in complementary disciplines (e.g., computer vision, AI applications, risk assessment, economics, or related areas) are strongly encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will work on projects primarily, but not exclusively, focused on udder health, biosecurity, influenza in cattle, and workforce development, integrating epidemiological methods with applied dairy systems research.

While in this role, you will:

• Conduct quantitative epidemiological analyses using diverse data sources, including field-collected biological samples, on-farm sensor data, artificial intelligence–derived outputs, and video-based analytics, to support disease surveillance and control.
• Lead and contribute to the preparation of manuscripts for publication in high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Support and mentor graduate students in data analysis, interpretation of results, and manuscript preparation.
• Contribute to the development of extramural grants and fellowship applications.
• Present research findings at scientific conferences.

The appointment is for 12 months with the possibility of renewal based on funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -epidemiology, veterinary medicine, public health, data science, statistics, economics, or a related field.

Minimum Requirements

• PhD in epidemiology, veterinary medicine, public health, data science, statistics, economics, or a related field.
• Strong quantitative and statistical skills.
• Experience with data analysis in R (or similar statistical software).
• Demonstrated publication record.
• Demonstrated interest in infectious disease prevention and control in livestock systems.

Required Application Materials

• Cover letter (one page max). The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
• CV
• University/college transcripts
• Names and contact information of three references.

Special Instructions

Review of applications will begin March 15, 2026, and continue the position is filled. Applications must be submitted electronically on the MSU Career’s website. Questions can be directed to Dr. Zelmar Rodriguez, at zelmar01@msu.edu.

Review of Applications Begins On

03/15/2026

Summary of Physical Demands

Frequent heavy lifting.

Summary of Health Risks

Works with animals and unfixed animal tissue.