CHARACTERIZING RESILIENCE IN YOUNG PIGS: IMPACTS OF WEANING ON EPIGENETIC MODIFICATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH BEHAVIORAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL STRESS PHENOTYPES

The primary goal of this project is to train the PD in an integrative approach to animal genetics research. To do so the PD will complete research characterizingresilience in young pigs and predoctoral training under the mentorship of multidisciplinary faculty. The research has two specific aims (1) Characterize stress resilient (SR) and stress vulnerable (SV) phenotypes in pigs at weaning, determined by stress biomarkers and a behavioral proxy for aggression, and estimate effects on future stress response and behavior; and (2) Elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of stress regulation associated with the resilient phenotype. At the end of this predoctoral fellowship the PD will have 1) completed training in generation and analysis of transcriptomic and epigenetic data, 2) mentored undergraduates in the process of hypothesis development and testing, 3) produced and disseminated research results at both national and international conferences within her field; and 4) gained training in scientific writing as demonstrated through successful publication of at least one manuscript.