Quantitative Geneticist

Job Description

The Quantitative Geneticist at URUS is responsible for producing industry-leading bovine genetics through innovative quantitative genetics analysis and technical expertise. This role involves development of innovative approaches to genetic advancement with hands-on data analysis and analytical tasks to support scientific and operational excellence with operational goals to deploy genomic and genetic selection tools within the PEAK breeding program.


Reporting to the Chief Science Officer of Acceligen, who leads the team in the Genetic Advancement and Trait Discovery as part of the Innovation group at URUS. The Quantitative Geneticist will ideally be based in Madison, WI.


RESPONSIBILITIES

Research and Development

• Support and develop proprietary genetic and phenotypic evaluations and/or indices using appropriate models and software.
• Utilize genomic data and/or machine learning to enhance prediction models.
• Collect, organize, and analyze large datasets using programming languages like R, Python, or Fortran
• Design and refine software pipelines that empower end-users to work independently.
• Use data-driven analysis to support project decision-making and breeding program optimization
• Identify opportunities for innovation by actively following scientific developments in genetics, translating them into practical applications for URUS.
• Ensure accuracy, reliability, and timely delivery of research outputs.

Strategic Communication and Planning

• Prepare materials for URUS internal and external education channels.
• Report on project status promptly and professionally.
• Contribute to long-term research and innovation strategies.
• Actively participate in team and cross-functional meetings.
• Attend scientific, technical, and commercial events to support knowledge exchange and visibility.

Technical and Operational Support

• Provide technical and operational support to URUS breeding programs to improve output and efficiency.
• Interpret genetic evaluation results and communicate upcoming changes.
• Monitor and troubleshoot trends in genetic rankings and performance data.
• Maintain up-to-date professional and technical expertise relevant to genetics and operations.
• Deploy genetic diversity management tools within the breeding program.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Ph.D. in Breeding and Genetics, Population Genetics, Quantitative Genetics, Plant Genetics, or a related field.
• Knowledge of dairy or beef cattle production preferred.
• Technical and Scientific Expertise
  
  • Demonstrated experience with genomic evaluation processes, including data ingestion and integration, genotype imputation, variance component estimation, and breeding value prediction.
  • Strong background in statistical analysis of large and complex datasets.
  • Knowledge of genome-wide association analysis (GWAS).
  • Familiarity with dairy or beef cattle production systems (preferred).
• Programming and Software Skills
  
  • Proficiency with genetic evaluation and statistical software such as ASReml, BLUPF90, Fortran, R, Python, and SQL.
  • Experience working in cloud environments, particularly Microsoft Azure and Azure Databricks
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent communication skills with fluency in English.
• Ability to build strong, effective relationships across teams and organizational levels.
• Skilled at engaging with stakeholders from entry-level employees to executive leadership.
• Strong interpersonal, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Effective time-management skills and the ability to balance multiple priorities.
• Intellectual curiosity with a commitment to continuous learning and identifying new opportunities.
• Willingness to travel occasionally.

About Us

As a holding company with cooperative and private ownership, URUS is a family of businesses at the heart of the dairy and beef industry - Alta Genetics, GENEX, Genetics Australia, Leachman Cattle, Jetstream, PEAK, SCCL, Trans Ova Genetics and VAS. Each organization has its unique identity, products, and services. These companies work globally to provide cutting-edge dairy and beef genetics, customized reproductive services to maximize conceptions, dairy management information to take producers to the frontline of progressive dairy farming, and an array of products and services to help bovines reach their full genetic potential. URUS has 9 brands in 17 retail countries and employs nearly 2,800 people globally.