Animal Science Department
Iowa State University
Ames IA, USA
A full time research based MS position (with stipend) is available for May 2011 to May 2012 at Iowa State University. Transportation of swine is an essential element to the multi-site pork production model that is currently used in the USA and the conditions under which pigs are handled and transported can have a direct impact on their well-being. For market pigs, the transportation process is a combination of novel experiences that can be perceived as stressful. If the pig in not able to cope with these stressors, producers will see increased losses through elevated mortality, morbidity and decreased product quality and increased waste and a reduction in production efficiency. The objective of this project will be to provide science based recommendations for bedding practices during market pig transport that help manage the internal environment of the transport trailer to prevent thermal stress. This study will provide the macro-details of the internal trailer environment and its impact on the pig by:
- Determine the proper use of bedding and weather boards/plugs in controlling the internal environment of the trailer so as to provide for the thermal comfort of the pig during cold temperatures.
- Determine if the use of bedding in moderate and warm temperatures is needed in handling areas and on trailers to prevent slips and falls.
The ultimate research goal is to develop industry recommendations for internal trailer environment management protocols that will optimize internal trailer temperature, maintain pig comfort and core body temperature and minimize transport losses.
The ideal candidate must have a strong academic performance (3.0 or above) in a biological discipline, such as animal behavior, animal science or veterinary science. Practical experience with pigs, willingness to travel and an interest in working in a multi-disciplinary research group is required. For further details about the project, contact Dr. Anna Johnson. For information about the graduate studies program in the Department of Animal Science and for application procedures (open until filled) please go to the web page at http://www.ans.iastate.edu/stud/prosp.grad/ and contact Donna Nelson at dlnelson@iastate.edu or by phone at (515) 294-2160 together with the title of the research project.
Anna Johnson
2356-F Kildee Hall
Ames
IA
50011-3150
USA
Phone: (515) 294-2098
E-mail: johnsona@iastate.edu