Undergraduate Research Assistant

The student will participate in ongoing research studies in the Lactation Physiology Lab (PI Dr. Amy Skibiel, Department of Animal, Veterinary, and Food Sciences) involving both animal and lab work. The student will be involved in two main projects, 1) assessing impacts of poor air quality on dairy cattle health and performance and 2) investigating cellular mechanisms involved in stress effects on lactation performance and passive immune transfer. Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, animal husbandry, biological sample collection, record keeping, performing lab assays, and data collation. Through this work study opportunity, students will gain hands-on experience working with research animals (cattle, rodents), strengthen critical thinking skills, learn how to apply the scientific method in research, gain troubleshooting skills, and bolster laboratory technical skills. Prior research experience is preferred, but not required. Qualified candidates must have a strong work ethic and interpersonal skills, a positive attitude, experience using basic office software, such as Microsoft Word and Excel, and ability to work independently as well as with others.