Dave Seymour Email & Phone Number

I find that there are very few things more satisfying than finding the solution to a problem, which definitely played a major role in my decision to pursue my PhD. In my current position as a research scientist, it’s what I get to do almost every day – whether it’s designing and executing animal trials, analyzing raw data, or working with my team to find the best way to effectively communicate our findings.My time in my undergraduate degree fostered my passion for dairy cattle nutrition. During my M.Sc., I was introduced to the concept of mathematical modelling of biological systems, and this got me to thinking how the concept of ‘big data’ could be applied in agricultural systems. These interests coalesced during my PhD where I had the opportunity to work on the Efficient Dairy Genome Project, which looked at opportunities for improving feed efficiency in dairy cattle while reducing the environmental impact of dairy production through the mitigation of methane emissions. During this time, I had the chance to delve deeper into the biological underpinnings of energy use in dairy cattle, as well as how host genetics and rumen microbial metabolism play a role in the digestion of feed, all while honing my data analytical skills in SAS.After joining the Ruminant Research Centre at Trouw Nutrition, my two main areas of focus became the application of prebiotics in the ruminant hindgut, and the applications of big data concepts to determine factors associated with dairy cattle health and productivity. In addition, I support my team wherever I can, whether coordinating on-farm activities for research projects or helping with statistical analyses.I was heavily involved in student recruitment during my time at the University of Guelph, and was fortunate enough to have some truly fantastic mentors. Now that I have moved on to the next phase of my career, I strive to give back to the Guelph campus community by helping students develop both academically and professionally, as well connecting individuals with opportunities that are right for them.

Listed skills include Student Council, Poultry, Planning, and Science.

• 

  Research Scientist - Ruminant Nutrition

  Trouw Nutrition

  Guelph, On, Ca