Postdoc - Dairy Metabolic Physiology

About the Job

Dr. Isaac Salfer's lab in the Department of Animal Science at the University of Minnesota is looking to hire a highly motivated individual to serve as a postdoctoral research associate focused on the interaction of circadian biology and metabolic physiology in dairy cows. The focus of this position is to investigate the impact of individual nutrients on the regulation of circadian rhythms in the liver of cows, and how changes in those rhythms result in meaningful changes in nutrient utilization, energy partitioning, and health of the animal.

The Salfer lab focuses on improving our understanding of the biology of dairy cows to develop applied strategies to improve feed utilization of dairy cows. We utilize a variety of research approaches including indirect calorimetry, marker-based approaches, cell culture, in vitro batch and continuous culture fermentation, immunoassays (e.g. ELISAs), metabolomics, and molecular biology approaches (e.g. qPCR, 16S sequencing, transcriptomics, proteomics). The laboratory has access to the University of Minnesota Genomics center, which is a global leader in molecular biological approaches with the capability to perform state-of-the-art approaches such as single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics.

Within the lab, this individual will have the ability to develop their own professional skills, advance their knowledge of novel research techniques, and continue to grow as an independent scientist. Members of the Salfer lab are also given opportunities to interact with dairy farmers, nutritionists, and extension specialists to develop skills and knowledge related to practical dairy farm consulting and develop a professional network within the field.

It is expected that an individual hired in this position will be actively involved in all aspects of the lab activities including reviewing literature, refining experimental designs, animal care and handling, travel for research purposes, collecting samples, conducting experiments, preparing interpretation and summaries of results, participating in conferences, preparing manuscripts, sharing lab management duties, participating in lab meetings, and being a good departmental citizen.

100% in person. This is a 100% time, 1-year appointment with the possibility of extension if funding becomes available.

• Leading in vivo experiments with dairy cows focused on circadian biology and nutrition
• Completion of liver and adipose tissue biopsies from dairy cows
• RNA and phosphoprotein extraction for transcriptomics and phosphoproteomics
• Quantitative PCR, Western Blots, and other laboratory techniques as needed for the projects
• Bioinformatics of transcriptomic and phosphoproteomic data with support from UMN Genomics Center
• Leading in vitro cell culture experiments with liver and adipose tissue
• Participate in lab management responsibilities
• Assist with training undergraduate and graduate students in research techniques
• Prepare results summaries to share with collaborators and prepare manuscripts of research results

• PhD in Animal Science, Biology, or related field
• Prior experience in cell culture, cellular and molecular biology techniques
• Previous experience working with large animals (preferably cattle) in a research setting
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team

College Overview

The College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) is composed of 27 programs: 14 undergraduate and 13 graduate programs in disciplines involving food, agricultural, and natural resource sciences. CFANS also has 10 research and outreach centers across Minnesota, plus the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the Bell Museum, and dozens of interdisciplinary centers that span the college, the university, and the globe.

Undergraduate enrollment in the college is about 2000 students. CFANS students are well-prepared for a diverse, multicultural workforce through the college's emphasis on experiential, interdisciplinary, and intercultural learning; internships; and global perspectives.

At CFANS, we aim to inspire minds, nourish people, and enhance the natural environment, and we believe that's only possible if everyone feels seen, heard and respected. Our College embraces equity and diversity and prioritizes purpose-driven scientific discovery in order for us to build a better tomorrow, together. We align with the University of Minnesota in providing equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Department Overview

The Department of Animal Science in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences (CFANS) is located on the scenic St. Paul campus. The Animal Science major, with an enrollment of around 400 students, is divided into five…