This Ph.D. research assistantship in the Department of Poultry Science at the University of Arkansas focuses on poultry behavior and welfare, specifically addressing the behavioral and welfare impacts of heat stress on broiler breeders and breeder ducks. The successful candidate will conduct research in the Center for Food Animal Wellbeing under Dr. Shawna Weimer and collaborate with Dr. Greg Fraley at Purdue University.

Qualifications:

• M.S. in Poultry/Animal Science, Neurobiology, Psychology, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong interest in poultry welfare research.
• Experience in behavioral and physiological lab techniques.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across labs and institutions.
• Exceptional candidates with a B.S. degree may be considered for an M.S. assistantship.

Research Topics/Area:

• Behavioral and welfare implications of heat stress on poultry.
• Investigation into fear, stress reactivity, and cognition in broilers and breeder ducks under cyclic heat stress.
• Evaluation of welfare indicators, including behavioral observations, affective state tests, and physiological assays.

Project Details:

The research examines the effects of cyclic heat stress on broilers and ducks, focusing on offspring behavior and welfare outcomes. Collaborative work with Dr. Greg Fraley’s lab at Purdue University includes examining epigenetic and neurobiological effects of heat stress, with opportunities to work on neuroendocrine protocols in his lab.

Funding:

The assistantship includes a tuition remission and stipend.

Apply:

Submit the following materials:

• 1-page statement of interest
• CV
• Publications or examples of scientific writing
• Contact information for three academic/professional references

Contact: Dr. Shawna Weimer via sweimer@uark.edu

About PI/Dr./Professor:

Dr. Shawna Weimer leads research on poultry welfare and behavior within the Center for Food Animal Wellbeing. The assistantship will also involve collaboration with Dr. Greg Fraley at Purdue University, focusing on neurobiological aspects of poultry welfare.

Application Deadline:

May 1, 2024

About University:

The University of Arkansas is recognized for its Poultry Science Department and its Center for Food Animal Wellbeing, providing a robust environment for animal welfare research.

About the Location:

Fayetteville, Arkansas, is known for its supportive academic community and access to a diverse agricultural industry, enhancing research and professional opportunities in animal science and poultry welfare.