Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

Michigan State University Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences (LCS) invites applications for a talented postdoctoral researcher to join our dynamic team focused on impact of antimicrobial usage on antimicrobial resistance is available in the Antimicrobial Stewardship & Dairy Health Management Laboratory of Dr. Pamela Ruegg.

Our laboratory group studies antimicrobial stewardship and dairy health management practices that contribute to reduced need for antimicrobial treatments with emphasis on practices that improve udder health. Research projects emphasize cutting edge laboratory and statistical methods to address practical problems and align with One Health principles. The candidate will be focused on applied research that evaluates the impact of antimicrobial treatments on fecal microbiota of dairy cows and novel strategies to reduce risks of selection for resistance elements when antimicrobial therapy is needed. We work as a collaborative team who are focused on understanding how to improve and optimize antimicrobial stewardship on dairy farms.

The successful candidate will assist in designing and implementing research projects related to the impact of antimicrobial usage on the fecal microbiota of dairy cows. This individual will help mentor graduate students and will be expected to participate in laboratory meetings.

While in this role, you will: 

• Coordinate and perform and field studies that may include laboratory work.
• Prepare manuscripts for high impact scientific journals.
• Present scientific research at national and international scientific meetings.

The appointment is for 12 months, with the possibility of renewal based on funding.

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.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The mission of the college is to be inclusive as we learn, discover, heal and protect. We, as a college, aim to identify, attract, and retain talented students, faculty, and staff reflective of the diversity of the populations in our state, the nation, and the world. Our academic, scholarly, and service roles, considered separately and collectively, form the foundation of an inclusive culture that is committed to respecting, nurturing, and advancing all individuals.

CVM Core Value of Diversity: We are committed to promoting the principles of equal opportunity and multiculturalism where all individuals are valued, respected, provided opportunity to flourish and open doors in their pursuit of excellence. We encourage and welcome our community to share ideas with us surrounding opportunities to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. The College's vision is to be the destination for teaching, innovation, care, and service. Six goals, backed by specific strategies, guide our organization as we move forward. Read more at https://cvm.msu.edu/about/strategic-planning-2021-26 to learn about the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine's goals, strategies and progress.

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 -DVM or equivalent and PhD or equivalent.

Minimum Requirements

• Must have a DVM (or equivalent) and a PhD (or equivalent) with a strong background in molecular techniques and experience in performing experiments with dairy cows.

Desired Qualifications

• Ability to perform milk microbiological studies.

Required Application Materials

• CV
• Cover Letter: should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position. 
• Contact information for three (3) references.

Special Instructions

For questions, please contact the search committee chair, Dr. Pamela Ruegg (plruegg@msu.edu) Position is open until filled, review of applications begins on July 8, 2025. Applicants must submit their application through the MSU Careers portal.

Review of Applications Begins On

07/08/2025

Summary of Physical Demands

• Heavy lifting/carrying

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.