Postdoctoral Position - Pasture Based Dairy Project W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, Michigan State University
Application Deadline: December 1, 2007 Primary Responsibility: To develop and implement a pasture-based dairy research facility at the Kellogg Biological Station (KBS) and initiate research and/or outreach activities that support and utilize this project. Position description: We seek a postdoctoral associate to work with the KBS Pasture-based Dairy management team to develop and design the pastures as a part of a research infrastructure that integrates animal production, ecology and food systems. Depending on interests and expertise, there will be opportunities to initiate research in any of the four focal research areas to be established at this facility (see below). They will also be expected to participate in planning and delivering outreach activities associated with the development of this project, including the use of novel technologies for milking (robotic milking). The postdoc will work closely with the Pasture-based ExecutiveTeam [KL Gross (KBS), K Plaut (ANS), M Hamm (CARRS) and D Buhler (MAES)], the project manager, KBS facilities manager and appropriate administrative offices at MSU to establish these facilities. Applicants must have a PhD in animal science, agronomy, or sustainable agriculture or related field. Experience in working with pasture-based dairy systems and engaging with outreach activities required. Strong written and verbal communication skills are also required. Availability and Location: This position is Full time (100%, annual year) and available immediately and is based Michigan State University's Kellogg Biological Station (www.kbs.msu.edu), Michigan's largest agricultural experiment station located in SW Michigan. KBS hosts the NSF LTER site in field crop agriculture and a newly-funded DOE funded Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center. Appointment will initially be for one year, but is renewable for up to 2 years depending on interest and performance. Salary commensurate with experience ($38-40K).This position reports directly to Dr. Katherine L Gross, KBS Director. Applications should be submitted as a single pdf file and include a statement of interest, cv, and names and contact information for 3 professional references. For further information, contact Dr. Katherine L Gross <mailto:([EMAIL PROTECTED]).>([EMAIL PROTECTED]). Application review will begin 1 November 2007; apply to<mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> [EMAIL PROTECTED] Proposed Research Focus Areas and Example Research Questions 1) Pasture production: a. What combinations of species and grazing practices influence the quality and composition of pastures? b. How does water/irrigation/precipitation influence sustainability of pasture production? Nutrient losses? Animal production? c. How do other species (weeds, birds, mammals, insects, microbes etc) respond to variation in grazing practices and pasture composition? 2) Nutrient management/cycling in grazed pastures a. How are nutrients used throughout the whole system by animals fed grain and grass, the LFL and LTER and what are the byproducts of the system? b. How do other non-nutrient components such as carbon dioxide and ammonia get utilized in the system? 3) Animal health and welfare a. How does a grazing system affect the longevity, health and behavior of animals? b. Do grazing systems influence the transmission of diseases (epizootic and other)? c. What traits (genetic) influence the production, health and welfare of animals in grazed systems? 4) Economic, Social and Food System a. How does food quality (milk, cheese, and other) change when animals are raised under different systems? b. What ecosystem services (indirect and direct) are provided by a pasture-based dairy system? c. What supply chains are affected (or will affect) the marketing of pasture-based dairy products? What are impediments or enablers of these types of systems playing a significant role in the overall food system? Jenny Smith, Secretary to Dr. Katherine L. Gross W.K. Kellogg Biological Station 3700 E. Gull Lake Drive, Hickory Corners, MI 49060 E-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Phone: 269/671-2354 FAX: 269/671-2351
