By Blake Jackson
The University of Wisconsin-River Falls College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) has awarded five faculty research fellowships to advance dairy-focused studies through the Dairy Innovation Hub.
These projects align with the Hub’s four focus areas: land and water stewardship, human health and nutrition, animal welfare, and strengthening farm businesses and communities.
Supported by a $7.8 million annual investment from the state, the Hub connects UW-Madison, UW-Platteville, and UW-River Falls to sustain the global competitiveness of Wisconsin’s $52.8 billion dairy industry while promoting environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Since its launch in 2019, nearly 300 projects have been funded across the three campuses.
These fellowships provide temporary funding that allows faculty to concentrate on research while continuing to teach. The support covers project expenses and ensures researchers have the flexibility needed to pursue targeted studies.
Students also benefit by gaining hands-on experience through fieldwork, lab analysis, and exposure to advanced technologies.
Among the selected fellows, Karly Anderson, along with co-investigator Kurt Vogel, is studying humane stunning practices in dairy cattle. Their work examines how captive bolt placement impacts brain regions to ensure rapid unconsciousness, aiming to provide improved guidelines for farmers, veterinarians, and processors.
Assistant Professor Magdy Abdullah Eissa is developing an AI-based tool called “Farm GPT.” The system will integrate farm sensor data and turn it into practical insights. “Farm GPT” offers conversational guidance on herd health, helping farmers adopt more precise, proactive management practices.
Maria Jose Fuenzalida is focusing on subclinical mastitis in dairy cows. Using DNA-based methods, her research tracks how infections spread and respond to treatment, with the goals of improving milk quality and antibiotic use.
Mohammad Hasan Mobarok is analyzing how export market dependence affects dairy price stability, using economic models to identify risks and inform better financial planning.
Finally, Ashani Thilakarathne is investigating how long-term manure use influences trace metal accumulation in soil, crops, and water, helping guide sustainable nutrient management practices.
Photo Credit: university-of-wisconsin-river-falls
Categories: Wisconsin, Education, Livestock, Dairy Cattle