Research Associate, Research Scientist

Research Associate-Fixed Term

Michigan State University Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences (LCS) invites applications for a talented postdoctoral researcher to join our dynamic animal science and artificial intelligence team. The candidate will develop novel algorithms that advance the use of computer vision in precision livestock farming (PLF) and improve animal welfare.

The proposed study will use metrics collected on research and commercial farms to determine a non-invasive method using thermal cameras and animal-based behaviors to reflect the animal's thermal neutral zone (TNZ). The project will provide updated standards for managing animal comfort and reflect an adjustment to the TNZ of breeding swine (sows, gilts, and boars). Adapting new standards will ensure that animal well-being is optimal, the on-farm energy use is maximized, and work to differentiate Michigan products for the consumer.

The candidate will work within the Department of Large Animal Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University (MSU) and collaborate with MSU-Extension and University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL). The candidate is expected to have training and experience in animal science, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and computer vision and a strong publication history. The candidate will translate collected data derived from sow farms with annotated datasets to determine the changes in the thermal regulatory responses of sows in open gestation pens during 3 seasons.

The candidate is expected to publish research results in high-impact journals, present findings at producer and science conferences, and write grants based on the research results.

One of the key goals of the project is to foster collaboration and attract contributions from the computer vision community and farmers through the release of video-based datasets. Your involvement is crucial to the success of this initiative.

While in this role, you will:

The preferred start date is June 1, 2025, and the appointment is for 12 months, as this project is state funded until May 31, 2026.

Michigan State University is located on one of the nation's largest and most beautiful campuses. The University has a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and is home to a diverse international community of dedicated students and scholars, athletes and artists, scientists, teachers and leaders. East Lansing's collegiate atmosphere is complimented by low cost of living with convenient access to neighboring cultural centers such as Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, Detroit, and Chicago.

East Lansing and surrounding communities provide excellent public-school systems. In addition, Michigan, the Great Lakes State, with its numerous inland lakes and rivers, state and national parks, national lake shores, world-class golf courses, and four seasons offers a broad variety of outdoor recreational activities.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
The mission of the college is to be inclusive as we learn, discover, heal and protect. We, as a college, aim to identify, attract, and retain talented students, faculty, and staff reflective of the diversity of the populations in our state, the nation, and the world. Our academic, scholarly, and service roles, considered separately and collectively, form the foundation of an inclusive culture that is committed to respecting, nurturing, and advancing all individuals.

CVM Core Value of Diversity:
We are committed to promoting the principles of equal opportunity and multiculturalism where all individuals are valued, respected, provided opportunity to flourish and open doors in their pursuit of excellence. We encourage and welcome our community to share ideas with us surrounding opportunities to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. The College's vision is to be the destination for teaching, innovation, care, and service.

Six goals, backed by specific strategies, guide our organization as we move forward. Read more at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). to learn about the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine's goals, strategies and progress.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Doctorate
-PhD or Equivalent

• PhD or equivalent degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Science, Biosystems…