Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The Abuelo Laboratory (www.abuelolab.com), housed within the College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University, is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to join its research team. The lab’s research program centers on improving immune function in periparturient dairy cattle and neonatal calves through an integrated approach that combines mechanistic studies using cells and tissues with epidemiological investigations. This work is supported by funding from federal and state agencies, as well as industry partners.

The successful candidate will primarily contribute to research projects focused on transition dairy cattle and newborn calves. Responsibilities will include handling cattle and collecting biological samples, as well as conducting BSL-2 laboratory research employing microbiological, molecular biology, chromatographic, and immunological techniques.

The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon continued funding.

While in this role, you will:

• Conduct independent and collaborative research
• Supervise graduate and undergraduate students in both laboratory and field settings
• Prepare manuscripts for publication
• Participate in the development of grant proposals related to cattle immunobiology

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. Visit the Pure Michigan© website https://www.michigan.org/ for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

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.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or related field

Minimum Requirements

• PhD in Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or related field.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Driver's license

Desired Qualifications

• DVM
• Demonstrated self-motivation with strong organizational, time-management, and project management skills.
• Proficiency in the use of statistical analysis software for biological or epidemiological data.
• Proven ability to contribute productively to collaborative research teams, with experience in report preparation and peer-reviewed manuscript writing.
• Exceptional attention to detail, coupled with the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, meet deadlines, uphold high ethical research standards, receive and apply constructive feedback, and work effectively in a team-oriented environment
• Prior experience with microbiological, molecular biology, and/or immunological laboratory techniques.
• Strong intellectual curiosity and a demonstrated willingness to learn, ask questions, and proactively contribute ideas to improve laboratory research and operations.

Required Application Materials

• CV
• Cover letter detailing the applicant’s research interests and career developmental goals.
• Names and contact information of three (3) references.

Special Instructions

You might contact Dr. Angel Abuelo (abuelo@msu.edu) if you have any questions. Applications from BIPOC and LGBTQ candidates are encouraged. The Abuelo Lab is committed to building a team that represents multiple backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The position is open until filled. Applications must be submitted electronically using the MSU online portal.

Review of Applications Begins On

02/16/2026

Summary of Health Risks

• Works with animals and unfixed animal tissue.

Website

https://cvm.msu.edu/lcs

Department Statement

The Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences (LCS) is educating the next generation of veterinary professionals, conducting research that improves the lives of animals and humans, and providing the finest clinical services available.

Our diverse faculty focuses on areas ranging from dairy, food animal, and specialized equine services to intensive research and student training. They work closely with students pursuing DVM degrees, veterinarians in internship and residency programs, and MS and PhD students. Learning to better understand, diagnose, and treat disease takes place in some of the most advanced facilities and laboratories. Faculty and students work together to find new solutions and put them into practice for a better world.

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.