Job Description

The Research Assistant/Associate Professor is responsible for conducting applied research on beef cattle production systems, with a focus on nutrition, reproduction, genetics, management and/or other relevant fields. The Research Assistant/Associate Professor is a joint appointment between the Cooperative Agriculture Research Center (CARC, 75%) and Cooperative Extension Programs (CEP, 25%) in the College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources. The position requires a PhD in Animal Science, or a related field, and at least six years of experience in beef cattle research. Research Assistant/Associate Professor will work closely with researchers, industry partners, and extension agents to design, implement, and disseminate research projects that address the needs and challenges of the beef cattle industry. Opportunities also exist in teaching a beef cattle production course with a laboratory.

This position is funded by a grant or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of grant or restricted funding.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and lead an independent, extramurally funded, nationally/internationally recognized research program in the field of beef cattle nutrition, reproduction, stress physiology, and/or livestock production management, such including but not limited to grazing, receiving, backgrounding cattle management, nutrient utilization, reproductive physiology, and beef cattle system sustainability.
• Evaluate the economic, environmental, and social impacts of different beef cattle production systems, and identify opportunities for improving sustainability and profitability.
• Communicate research findings to stakeholders, producers, processors, or consumers through publications, presentations, and workshops, as well as present research at national and international meetings and conferences and publish research findings in peer reviewed journals.
• Participate and assist in college-wide events, activities, committees and perform other duties as deemed necessary.

Required Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. Animal Science or related discipline.
• Six years of related experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• May supervise.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet applications.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, analytical, interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Technical competence in Beef Cattle Management and the ability to apply this knowledge to the solution of problems.
• Knowledge of current practices and standard care in cattle management.
• Knowledge of a variety of teaching methods to provide effective learning experiences.
• Ability to work independently while adhering to established plans, programs, and protocols.