Postdoctoral Research Associate (tamus)

Job Description

Agency

Department

Job Description: The Postdoctoral Research Associate will play a crucial role in implementing and evaluating innovative feeding management strategies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and optimizing feed utilization in grazing beef cattle. The project involves the deployment of advanced precision livestock farming technologies to monitor grazing behavior, forage intake, and gaseous exchange (e.g., methane, CO2) across diverse grazing conditions. The post-doc will also assist in the development and deployment of a decision-support tool for producers and NRCS personnel, facilitating the adoption of climate-smart feeding practices.

Job Responsibilities: Collaborate closely with the multidisciplinary project team within the Department of Animal Science, focusing on the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data from on-farm trials conducted across Texas. These trials will assess the environmental and economic impacts of various feeding management strategies, including feed additives, targeted supplementation, and refined grazing management. This position will have the opportunity to contribute to the development of educational outreach materials, mentor undergraduate and graduate students, and participate in grant writing.

Major duties: Coordinate and conduct on-farm trials involving the measurement, monitoring, reporting, and validation (MMRV) of methane emissions using C-Lock GreenFeed Emission Monitoring™ and other precision farming technologies. Driving to up to 12 ranches in the State of Texas. Design and implement studies to evaluate the impact of feeding management strategies on GHG emissions and resource utilization in grazing beef cattle. Assist in the development and deployment of a decision-support tool (DST) tailored for NRCS personnel and producers to enhance the adoption of climate-smart practices. Analyze data, review relevant literature, write manuscripts, and contribute to project reports. Engage with producers and stakeholders to facilitate data collection and the implementation of feeding strategies. Support the training of Climate-Smart Ambassadors, graduate students, and NRCS personnel through tailored educational programs.

Required Education and Experience:

A PhD in ruminant nutrition, animal science, or closely related field.

Preferred Education and Experience:

Experience in ruminant nutrition, rumen microbiology, precision livestock farming techniques, and statistical analysis. Experience with sensor technologies such as the C-Lock GreenFeed and SmartFeed systems.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Strong computational skills, including experience with modern programming languages and data analytics. Excellent communication skills and a demonstrated publication record. Ability to multi-task and work both independently and cooperatively with others. Strong organizational skills and a proactive work ethic.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Ability to effectively communicate with stakeholders, including ranchers and farmers. Ability to travel as needed for on-farm trials.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.