• Job Description

  Req#: 34549

  Description

  This internship offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of agriculture and cutting-edge biotechnology. As an intern with Dairy Farmers of America, you’ll be part of a groundbreaking initiative that uses cow breath samples to determine pregnancy — an innovation that has the potential to transform dairy farm reproduction practices and improve efficiency for farmers on a global scale. You’ll gain hands-on experience on real dairy farms, collecting and processing samples, managing data, and maintaining specialized equipment. Most importantly, you’ll be an integral participant in discussions about the technology, and serve as a bridge between product developers and the dairy farmers utilizing this emerging technology. You will leave this internship with valuable experience, professional connections, and a deeper understanding of how science and technology drive progress in agriculture.

  Location: this internship will be based remotely and will require frequent travel to dairy farms. The preferred candidate will live in Colorado or the surrounding area/states.

  MAIN DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Utilizing breath-sensing technology:
    • Plan the collection of a multitude of individual cow breath samples from dairy farms
    • Collect and process cow breath samples on farms and upload data to the cloud
    • Collect all pertinent cow data required at collection and again within 2-3 months
    • Initiate and maintain contact with farmers so any additional data can be requested if needed
  • Conduct preparatory work for breath sampling technique, including the management and maintenance of research equipment
  • Contribute to conversations involving future technology planning and development
  • Maintain accurate records of sampling and ensure activities are compliant with ethics approvals
  • Other tasks as directed

  Qualifications

  Qualifications:
  
  

  • Currently enrolled in a degree in Veterinary Science, Agriculture, Biotechnology or similar equivalent degree
    
    

  Experience and skills:

  • Cattle handling experience is essential
  • Understanding of basic animal behavior and welfare
  • Understanding of basic animal reproduction and livestock production systems
  • Demonstrated ability to undertake research and project management work under broad direction only, exercise initiative in undertaking responsibilities
  • An interest in biotechnology and sensor technology
  • Demonstrated high level organization, communication, interpersonal skills including experience working with farmers and farm staff
  • Demonstrated high level oral and written communication skills, including the ability to maintain accurate records and the preparation of reports
  • Demonstrated interpersonal skills, including the ability to work both collaboratively in a team and autonomously when required
  • Demonstrated ability to work autonomously with little direct supervision

  An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans

• About the company

  Dairy Farmers of America Inc. is a national milk marketing cooperative in the United States.

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