Research

My research focus is in animal breeding and genetics, specifically looking at the use of genomic selection in crossbred beef cattle populations and its realistic application to the producer. I also have interests in association of genes, interactions, and system approaches to identifying gene networks of beef cattle production traits as well as their application to enhancing genetic predictions. I have experience in computer programming languages and software (e.g., R, SAS, ASReml, some Perl and Unix), as well as molecular genetic lab work and a statistical genetics background. Recently, I have also incorporated research interests in sheep and goats based on industry needs. My career goal is to be a professional that is knowledgeable in her field, discovers and contributes relevant research, and effectively conveys and teaches her expertise to future scientists, livestock producers, and consumers.

Active Data Collection Research Projects:

  • Hulsman Hanna, L.L. (Co-PI) and K. Swanson (Co-PI), Z. Carlson , C. Dahlen, K. Maddock-Carlin, R. Maddock, and G. Stokka. Impact of frame size, efficiency, and longevity in the commercial beef cow herd. Project Duration: 2014 - Present. 10+ years. Initial data collection commenced fall of 2014.

  • Hulsman Hanna, L.L. (PI). Impact of peer mentoring in an undergraduate animal breeding and genetics courses. Project Duration: November 2016 - Present.

Research Projects in Publication Phase:

  • Hulsman Hanna, L.L. (PI), D.G. Riley, C. Dahlen, B. Neville, and S. Wagner. Evaluation of methods to measure temperament in cattle and their impacts on genetic associations and predictions. Project Duration: October 2014 - December 2017. This project coincides with Hatch ND01758 objectives and goals.

  • Hulsman Hanna, L.L. (Co-PI), K.A. Vonnahme (Co-PI), D.G. Riley, J.B. Taylor. Evaluation of litter size and lambs impacts on longevity of range ewes. Project Duration: January 2016 - September 2020.

Current and Past Hatch Projects:

  • Hulsman Hanna, L.L. (Co-PI), K. Swanson (Co-PI), Z. Carlson, C. Dahlen, K. Maddock-Carlin, R. Maddock, G. Ottmar, G. Stokka. Characterizing relationships of frame size, efficiency, and longevity in the commercial beef cow herd. Hatch ND01796. Project Duration: November 2021 - September 2026.

  • Hulsman Hanna, L.L. (Co-PI), K. Swanson (Co-PI), K.A. Vonnahme (Co-PI), C. Dahlen, J. Dhuyvetter, R. Maddock, G. Stokka, and K.A. Ringwall. Impact of frame size, efficiency, and longevity in the commercial beef cow herd. Hatch ND01759. Project Duration: October 2016 - September 2021.

  • Hulsman Hanna, L.L. (PI). Investigation of selection criteria to improve breeding decisions in livestock. Hatch ND01758. Project Duration: November 2014 - September 2019.

Previous Research:

  • Dissertation: Investigation of genomic estimated breeding values and association methodologies using Bayesian inference in a Nellore-Angus crossbred population for two traits. 2010 - 2013. Texas A&M University, College Station, TX.

  • Hulsman Hanna, L.L., M.R.S. Fortes, A. Reverter, R.K. Miller, J.O. Sanders, A.D. Herring, C.A. Gill, and D.G. Riley. Comparison and genetic characterization of beef sensory traits in a Nellore-Angus crossbred population utilizing Bayesian inference and whole system approaches. 2011-2012. Collaboration of Texas A&M University and CSIRO Livestock Industries, Queensland, Australia.

  • Thesis: Identification of loci interacting with Melanocortin-1 Receptor to modify black coat color in an F2 Nellore-Angus population. 2008 - 2010. Texas A&M University, College Station, TX.

  • Hulsman Hanna, L.L., C.R. Boldt, M.A. Wegenhoft, C.A. Abbey, and C.A. Gill. Investigation of imprinting status for candidate genes of disposition on bovine chromosome 8. 2008 - 2009. Texas A&M University, College Station, TX.

Previous Software or Package Development: