Postdoctoral Researcher in Genotype-by-Environment Interactions in Beef Cattle in University of Calgary – Canada

Summary

The University of Calgary, in collaboration with the Canadian Angus Association, is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher for a 1.5-year appointment, with potential for renewal. The position focuses on Genotype-by-Environment Interactions in Beef Cattle, aiming to develop Precision GEPDs. The successful candidate will integrate various data types, including genomic, phenotypic, and environmental data, using advanced statistical and machine-learning methods. The role involves leading data analysis, interpretation, and communication of project outputs, as well as contributing to knowledge translation and scientific publications. The salary is $60,000 CAD per annum plus health benefits. Applicants should hold a PhD in a relevant field and have strong quantitative and analytical skills. Applications, including a cover letter, CV, and referee contact information, should be submitted via email.

Key Facts

Department	Reproduction and Early Life Laboratory of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Position Type	Postdoctoral Researcher
Discipline	Animal Science
Research Area	Genotype-by-Environment Interactions in Beef Cattle
Degree Required	PhD in a relevant graduate degree or equivalent doctoral-level training in animal science, animal breeding and genetics, biostatistics, epidemiology, or bioinformatics
Experience	Demonstrated experience working with large, complex, or linked datasets, strong quantitative and analytical skills, familiarity with mixed models, genetic evaluation, reaction-norm models, or machine-learning methods. Knowledge of livestock production systems with beef-cattle production experience is an asset.
Salary	$60000 CAD per annum plus University of Calgary Plan C health benefits
Contract Duration	Initial appointment of 1.5 years (18 months) with renewal contingent on funding and performance
Language	English
Required Documents	Cover letter (1-2 pages), Curriculum vitae including a full list of publications, Contact information including email addresses for two referees
Employer Address	University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, CANADA
Employer Contact	[email protected]

About the Project

This project aims to quantify genotype-by-environment (GxE) interactions in Angus cattle to develop Precision Genomic-Enhanced Expected Progeny Differences (GEPDs). These Precision GEPDs will account for environmental and management conditions, improving the predictive value of GEPDs across different production environments. The research involves integrating genomic, phenotypic, environmental, spatial, and producer-reported management data for economically important Angus traits. Advanced statistical methods, including reaction-norm models, mixed models, machine learning, and AI-enabled approaches, will be used to identify factors altering genetic expression. The ultimate goal is to develop a producer-facing dashboard that translates conventional GEPDs into GxE-adjusted predictions for individual production settings across Canada.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to data curation, integration, quality control, analysis, interpretation, and communication of project outputs
• Collaborate and communicate within an interdisciplinary research group
• Contribute to knowledge translation, scientific presentations, and peer-reviewed manuscripts
• Coordinate activities with trainees, researchers, and research staff

Required Skills

• PhD in animal science, animal breeding and genetics, biostatistics, epidemiology, bioinformatics, or a closely related discipline
• Demonstrated experience working with large, complex, and/or linked datasets (animal production, pedigree, genomic, health, environmental, spatial, or farm-management data)
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including experience with statistical modeling in R, Python, SAS, or similar software
• Familiarity with mixed models, genetic evaluation, reaction-norm models, machine-learning methods, or related quantitative approaches
• Ability to develop expertise in quantitative methods
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound scientific judgment, solve problems creatively, and manage multiple priorities
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and respectfully in a multidisciplinary team
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English

Who Should Apply

This position is suitable for individuals with a PhD in animal science, animal breeding and genetics, biostatistics, epidemiology, bioinformatics, or a closely related discipline. Ideal candidates will have demonstrated experience with large, complex datasets, strong quantitative and analytical skills, and familiarity with statistical modeling, mixed models, and machine learning. Experience with livestock production systems, particularly beef cattle, is an asset. The role requires independent work, creative problem-solving, and effective collaboration within a multidisciplinary team.

Benefits

• A collaborative, well-funded, industry-connected research program focusing on Canadian beef systems
• Training and mentorship in quantitative genetics, GxE modeling, machine learning, geospatial analysis, and decision-support-tool development
• Opportunities to interact with industry leaders, producers, and scientists across Canada
• Support for publications, conference presentations, fellowship applications, and career development
• A stimulating multidisciplinary environment with academic and industry collaborators
• University of Calgary Plan C health benefits

About the Employer

The University of Calgary is described as Canada's entrepreneurial university, a top research institution, and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, it has 36,000 students and emphasizes an innovative learning environment rich in research, hands-on experiences, and entrepreneurial thinking. It is a leader in creating start-ups. The university is committed to an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy, ii' taa' poh' to' p, aiming for a culturally competent campus that supports Indigenous Peoples and incorporates Indigenous perspectives. It is also an equitable and inclusive employer, committed to diversity and removing barriers for underrepresented groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the appointment?

The initial appointment is for 1.5 years (18 months), with renewal contingent on funding and performance.

What is the salary for this position?

The salary is $60,000 CAD per annum, plus University of Calgary Plan C health benefits.

What degree is required for this position?

A PhD in animal science, animal breeding and genetics, biostatistics, epidemiology, bioinformatics, or a closely related discipline is required.

Can remote work be negotiated?

Remote work within Canada may be negotiable depending on project needs.

What documents are required for the application?

Applicants must submit a cover letter (1-2 pages), a curriculum vitae including a full list of publications, and contact information (including email addresses) for two referees.

Who should I contact for application submission?

Applications should be submitted as a single PDF to [email protected] with the subject line 'Postdoc Application Your Name'.