A Sustainable, Efficient, Profitable Beef Production Future
Opportunity:  Auburn University’s Animal Sciences Department is searching for six exceptionally  qualified  Master’s  degree  prospects  to  participate  in  a  novel professional  development  program  (USDA  NIFA grant  (#2021-38420-34060)  that pushes the envelope on innovation in preparing graduates to meet future food-animal production workforce needs. A multidisciplinary team of scientists have created  a  program  framework  that  prepares  graduates  with  interdisciplinary knowledge and experience to develop creative solutions to critical challenges to the industry. Through content and experiential modules, students will be cross-trained in disciplinary arenas of regenerative forage-based systems, meat sciences, food safety, Ag STEM & consumer/Industry  communication,  growth  and  development, nutrition,  genetics and reproduction. Students will become equipped with leadership, design and systems thinking,  discovery and  translational research experience to develop creative solutions to critical challenges to the industry. There will be a particular focus on beef cattle  production  systems  which  are  environmentally sustainable  and enhances profitability.
Expectations include participation in a programmatic cohort Community of Practice, advanced portfolio of professional development, peer reviewed publications and presentations related to their research; grant proposal development and submission; and professional development. These positions are twelve-month full fellowships that will average 20 hours per week. Some evening and weekend commitments as well as learning tours, Extension activities and brief hands-on learning experiences with industry, corporate partners and AU Research and Extension Centers and animal facilities can be anticipated. 

About Auburn University. Located in East Central Alabama, Auburn University with its R1 and Land Grant status has developed into one of the largest universities in the South, positioned in the educational forefront to assist with the changing needs of today while living with a respect for the traditions and spirit that are Auburn. We have  about   31,764  students  including  6,385  graduate  students.  For formation   visit   our   website   at   https://agriculture.auburn.edu/research/ansc/.

Prior to matriculation, applicants must be accepted by the AU Graduate School. Preferred characteristics include the following: U.S. citizenship, strong undergraduate academic credentials, demonstrated work with animals, involvement in research, effective written and speaking communication skills and career goals. 

Application Process: interested applicants should send a current resume/CV, letter of intent including basis and preferred research interest areas, unofficial copy of transcripts, and contact information for three references to Dr. Don Mulvaney, NNF Program Director (Anim_Sciences_NNF21@auburn.edu). Review of applicants will begin in spring 2023, including zoom interview and continue until positions are filled. Selected students will be offered a competitive fellowship stipend and qualify for tuition waiver for up to 24 mo with satisfactory standing and progress toward degree completion. Students interested in one of the specific research program areas affiliated with the NNF program are encouraged to contact area reps: Breeding /Genetics, Dr. W. Diniz (wzd0027@auburn.edu); Nutrition/Forage Nutrition, Dr. B. Smith (wbs0001@), K. Mullenix (mullemk@), Dr. W. Greene (greenlw@), Dr. L. Dillard (dillasa@); Growth Biology, Dr. T. Brandebourg (tdb0006@; Meat Sciences, Dr. J. Sawyer (jts0109@), Dr. A. Belk (adb0097@) and Dr. D. Mulvaney (Ag Communications;mulvadr@); Reproduction, Dr. P. Dyce (pwd0003@); For general information about Graduate Admissions, contact our graduate program coordinator Dr. Paul Dyce (pwd0003@auburn.edu or ANSC department chair, Dr. Wayne Greene (greenlw@auburn.edu).