Effect of Housing Systems on the Welfare of Laying Hens
Animal Behavior and Welfare Group
Department of Animal Science
Michigan State University
A postdoctoral training position (Research Associate in Animal Science) is available starting July 1, 2012, with the Animal Behavior and Welfare Group (ABWG) at Michigan State University to study the effects of housing systems on the welfare of laying hens.
The successful candidate will be involved in the development of data collection protocols, and management and analysis of data for projects focusing on understanding the response of laying hens to being housed in a variety of housing systems including conventional battery cages, enriched colony cages and several types of aviary systems. The AWBG team at MSU employs a range of strategies including direct observation, video and acoustic recording, and wireless sensor technology to collect information about laying hen behavior at the individual and flock level. In addition, the ABWG collaborates with colleagues in animal science and veterinary medicine to gather information on the production, health, and disease of hens as well as environmental quality in the various housing systems in order to create a complete picture of hen welfare. The post doc will be expected to assist with coordinating the team of researchers, including graduate and undergraduate students, working on the research projects. The post doc will assist the lab technician with issues concerning the planning, purchase, and maintenance of the ABWG lab and equipment involved in the projects.
In addition to the primary research responsibilities described above, the candidate will be able to participate in other ABWG and departmental activities including: assist with the collegiate animal welfare judging competition, assist with teaching of undergraduate and/or graduate courses, development of own research paradigms and grant writing.
Qualifications: Applicants must have completed a PhD degree in animal science or closely related field by the start of the position. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in animal behavior, welfare, and physiology/immunology as well as strong written and oral communication skills. Candidates should have experience with scientific research techniques in applied ethology in the lab and field and a thorough understanding of scientific methodology. The ideal candidate should be comfortable and interested in working with animals as well as with various types of technology and data processing software. Experience with laying hens and the poultry industry is preferred. Candidates should enjoy working in a dynamic research environment and be able to work across disciplines.
The position includes salary and health insurance benefits. Interested candidates should submit: 1) a letter stating interests and goals, 2) a current CV, 3) copies of PhD transcripts, and 4) contact information for three references. After review of these materials, select candidates will be invited to interview at MSU. Applications will be accepted until May 15, 2012 or until a suitable candidate is found. Please send application materials via email to Kathy Tatro (tatro@msu.edu) or by mail to Department of Animal Science, 1290 Anthony Hall, Michigan State University, East Lansing MI, 48824. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Janice Siegford (siegford@msu.edu).