PhD Student in GHG and Microbiology in Cattle

Grad Student Position Details

Project Title
PhD Student in GHG and Microbiology in Cattle

Degree Program
MA

Supervisor
Carolyn Fitzsimmons, Glesie da Sila, Leluo Guan

Professorial Rank
Associate Professor, Assistant Professor, Professor

Department
Agricultural, Food & Nutritional Science

Project Start Date
10/31/2023

Project Description

Are you passionate about agricultural sustainability and interested in making a significant impact on global food systems? Join our dynamic and innovative research team as a PhD student! We are currently seeking a highly motivated individual to conduct cutting-edge research in the following areas: methane emissions from cattle, beef production, and fecal microbiota.

About Us: We are a leading research institution dedicated to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and addressing key challenges in the livestock industry. Our multidisciplinary team combines expertise in animal science, genetics, microbiology, and environmental sciences to develop practical solutions that promote both environmental stewardship and efficient beef production. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with renowned experts in the field and contribute to ground-breaking research with real-world implications.

Positions: The PhD Student has the opportunity to investigate relationships between grazing systems and genetic potential for enteric methane and/or residual feed intake, with cattle production traits and actual methane emissions from cattle. The research will also include investigation of fecal microbial profiles as a proxy for enteric methane measurements.  Your research will involve conducting on-farm experiments, analyzing large integrated datasets, and employing advanced statistical models. Through your work, you will contribute to the development of sustainable livestock production systems and help address the environmental impact of cattle farming. Your research will also contribute to the development of precision breeding strategies and improved livestock management practices.

Requirements:

  • A master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., animal science, microbiology, environmental sciences, agricultural engineering)
  • Strong background knowledge and research experience in one or more of the mentioned areas (methane emissions, beef production, fecal microbiota)
  • Proficiency in data analysis and statistical modeling techniques
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment
  • Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
  • Demonstrated publication record or potential for high-quality research output

Benefits:

  • Exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in sustainable agriculture
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities, equipment, and resources
  • Collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment
  • Competitive stipend and funding support for conference attendance
  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
  • Potential for collaboration with industry partners and international research networks

To Apply: Interested candidates should submit the following documents to [email address]:

  1. Curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant academic and research experiences
  2. Statement of purpose outlining your research interests and motivation for pursuing a PhD in the specified area
  3. Contact information for two academic or professional references

Please specify the position you are applying for (PhD Student in Agricultural Research) in the subject line of your email. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled.

Join our team and become part of a research community committed to addressing critical challenges in agriculture while shaping a sustainable future. We look forward to receiving your application!

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Keywords
GHG, methane, cattle, microbiology, Guan, Fitzsimmons da Silva

Contact Email
cfitzsim@ualberta.ca

Other contact information
lguan@ualberta.ca
gleise@ualberta.ca

Project Website

Stipend Amount/year
$ 27,000.00