Postdoc Spotlight: Adam Beard
September 19, 2025
Adam Beard is a postdoc in dairy science and the department of population medicine and diagnostic sciences from Courtland, Virginia. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and his research focuses on the effects of early life management and diet on dairy heifers. He is a recipient of a Postdoc Achievement Award for Excellence in Mentoring as part of Cornell’s celebration of National Postdoc Appreciation Week 2025.
What is your area of research, scholarship, or work and why is it important?
I am currently exploring the effects of early life management and diet on the health, growth, and reproductive development of dairy heifers. Young heifers are the future of a dairy farm but require a costly investment. Implementing research-based advancements in management will drive their health, development, and success in the milking herd.
What are the broader implications of this research, scholarship, or work?
Just 2% of the United States population are farmers and ranchers, who very nobly produce food for the country and the world. The goal of my career is to support their hard work with research and education related to dairy animal health and production.
What does receiving a Postdoc Achievement Award mean to you?
Being recognized for excellence in mentoring is such an honor to receive, especially knowing how many of my colleagues are also deserving of this award. The true reward is in seeing those that I have mentored achieve their goals and thrive in their next step.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy in your spare time?
In my spare time, I like to exercise, which also helps clear my mind. Recently, I have started coaching CrossFit classes at a local gym, which mirrors my passion for mentoring and teaching.
Why did you choose Cornell?
Cornell’s rich history of dairy science, paired with the opportunity to be mentored by my PI, Dr. Sabine Mann, were the deciding factors in choosing Cornell for my postdoc.
What is next for you?
I am exploring many different opportunities, each with the common thread of dairy science education.
Do you have any advice for current graduate students?
I would recommend that graduate students (and undergraduate students) explore specific job opportunities/postings early in their degree and use those as a guide for deciding what skills or experiences they should prioritize in their graduate training to be competitive candidates and successful in their careers.