Physiology
In the reproductive physiology area, research projects include investigations of gamete and embryo development, fertility markers in fresh and frozen livestock semen, interaction of nutrition and puberty onset in heifers, use of ultrasonography to improve management of pregnancy in livestock, estrus and ovulation synchronization programs for livestock management and the effect of extensive management systems on the reproductive efficiency of dairy cattle.
In the lactation area, research projects focus on the investigation of the interaction of mastitis on reproduction and the effect of diet on breast tissue function.
Students in physiology use a variety of animal models including cattle, swine, mice, goats, horses, domestic cats and exotic cats in their research.
Students can select to major in Animal Science and focus their coursework and research project in the physiology area. Alternatively, students can choose to pursue a major in Animal Science with a co-major in Physiology. In this case, both the major and co-major programs will be designated on the student’s graduate transcript.
Interested in learning more about Physiology? Visit the Interdisciplinary Physiology Graduate Program website.