Summary The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is the United States Department of Agriculture's chief scientific research agency and one of the world's premiere scientific organizations. ARS Postdoctoral Research Associates are hired to supplement a lead scientist's research on agricultural problems of high national priority affecting American agriculture. This position is located in the Dairy Forage Research Unit in Madison, Wisconsin. **ANNOUNCEMENT IS OPEN UNTIL FILLED OR 11/26/2025 ** Responsibilities The incumbent will be part of a team of USDA-ARS, university, and industry collaborators who are examining the value of alfalfa in dairy cow rations. Specific research objectives for the incumbent include: 1) Evaluate the inclusion of alfalfa in the diets of high-producing dairy cows on performance, nutrient digestibility, and environmental impact. 2) Evaluate the impact alfalfa quality in the diets of high-producing lactating cows on production, nutrient digestibility, and nutrient excretion to the environment. 3) Compare these in vivo results with estimates of results predicted by in vitro laboratory analyses to better define forage quality. Requirements Conditions of Employment Qualifications A Ph.D. in Animal Science, Dairy Science or related science is required. Expertise and skill in developing and conducting ruminant nutrition feeding studies is required. A practical understanding of dairy farm production in the U.S. is desirable. The incumbent must show an ability to initiate and lead research projects, interpret results, and prepare refereed publications. In addition, the incumbent must have a proven ability in working with a team of scientists and leading initiatives on broad agricultural problems. Applicants must meet basic Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standard's requirements of the scientific discipline necessary to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position. The requirements for this position can be found in this link:https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0400/animal-science-series-0487/ Education This position has a positive education requirement. You must submit a copy of your academic transcripts OR a list of college courses with credit hours, dates completed, and grades received to verify education when applying for this position. If this information is not provided, your education may not be appropriately evaluated and you may lose consideration for this position. If you are selected for this position, you will have to provide an official copy of your transcripts prior to entering on duty. Application materials will not be returned. Additional Information This position may be eligible to telework up to four days per week, based upon the duties of the position. This position may also be eligible for flexible work arrangements as determined by agency policy and any applicable collective bargaining agreements.