Recipient Organization
UNIV OF WISCONSIN
21 N PARK ST STE 6401
MADISON,WI 53715-1218
Performing Department
(N/A)
Non Technical Summary
The University of Wisconsin-Madison's Department of Animal & Dairy Sciences (ADS) proposes to establish a National Needs Fellowship (NNF) program to develop underrepresented minority students for leadership in Animal Production. This program seeks to diversify the field by incorporating a range of perspectives into Animal Science through targeted recruitment strategies, including website advertising, email campaigns, referrals, national and local events, and collaborations with underrepresented minority programs.The NNF program will support the training of three Ph.D. students, focusing on core competencies in reproductive physiology, endocrinology, immunology, and statistics. Central to the program is Experiential Learning, providing fellows with industry experience and career connections. The ADS department's strategic location and extensive industry connections enhance the fellows' learning experience, offering insights into leading dairy operations and companies specializing in reproductive technology, genetics, and nutrition.This innovative program blends traditional academic training with practical industry experience, preparing fellows for careers in research, extension, industry, and teaching.By leveraging our resources and connections, the program ensures that graduates are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and network to excel and lead in the dairy industry. The NNF program is designed as a powerful incubator for developing the industry's future leaders, setting them on a successful career path in Animal Production. The program aims to achieve two main goals: 1) Equip underrepresented minority students with evidence-based training in animal physiology and 2) Enhance their professional development through leadership, science communication, and networking opportunities. The NNF program is designed to ensure that graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, extension, industry, and teaching, thus contributing significantly to the TESA area of Animal Production.
Animal Health Component
35%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
35%
Applied
35%
Developmental
30%
Goals / Objectives
The Department of Animal & Dairy Sciences seeks to establish a National Needs Fellowship (NNF) program designed to equip underrepresented minority students with the specialized skills necessary to excel in industry leadership positions within critical shortage areas of the Animal and Dairy Science workforce, specifically aligned with the TESA area in Animal Production.The program's objectives are to:1) Provide cutting-edge training in Animal Physiology to underrepresented minority students through evidence-based platforms2) Foster leadership and science communication skills while facilitating robust networking opportunities to prepare fellows for successful careers post-graduation. By securing partnerships with key industry leaders, we will offer NNF fellows exclusive internship opportunities that provide invaluable hands-on experience. Additionally, the program includes targeted networking events with industry professionals and the Dairy Innovation Hub, offering fellows unparalleled access to industry connections and insights. These initiatives are uniquely tailored to bridge the gap between academic training and industry requirements, distinguishing this NNF program as a premier incubator for the next generation of animal and dairy science leaders.
Project Methods
Experiential learning: Hands-on research projects will be required for all NNF Fellows of this proposal. They will develop their research component focused on one of the core competencies related to the mentor's area of research and will be involved in the design, execution, data analysis, and interpretation of the results with the support of their mentor and committee.Professional development Fellows will be offered networking opportunities with various industry and government partners (please refer to collaborative arrangements). This aspect is the most distinguishing aspect of the NNF program from the traditional ADS PhD program. The strategic location of the ADS department facilitates direct engagement with world-class dairy operations and a range of dairy companies specializing in reproductive technology, genetics, and nutrition.Professional InternshipAs part of the program requirements, students will be expected to complete a 3-month internship at one of the supporting companies. For Ph.D. students, it will occur the semester after the completion of their qualifying examination. The internship program serves multiple purposes, including fostering connections with potential recruiters, providing industry experience, and offering training in professional and interpersonal skills, leadership, and management. Additionally, the Dairy Innovation Hub, presents further professional development opportunities for program fellows. These include networking with industry stakeholders, developing communication and leadership skills, and creating avenues for interaction with potential recruiters.