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Behind the scenes with Ph.D. Candidate Fatima Muhammad
Research Roundup Fall 2025
Tell us about your background and what brought you to the University of Guelph!
I completed my Bachelor of Science (Honours) in behavioural neuroscience (’20) at Laurentian University in Sudbury. After relocating to southern Ontario, I shifted my focus towards research with animals. This then led me to pursue a Master of Science in equine physiology (’23) at the University of Guelph, whose strong reputation for hands-on animal research and industry engagement made it a natural fit! It was during this time that my interest in genetics and cattle research really developed, shaping the direction of my Ph.D.
I’m now part of the Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock (CGIL), working under the advisement of Angela Cánovas, and am entering my third year of doctoral studies.
What is your research focusing on, can you give us a summary?
My research focuses on animal breeding and genomics, examining feed efficiency and methane emissions as key traits of interest in dairy and beef cattle. I analyze transcriptome expression patterns to capture both the inherent molecular profiles of the animals and their dynamic responses to external factors, such as diet.
What is the end goal of your research?
The end goal of my research is to provide insights and tools that can support livestock selection and management. Ultimately, my work aims to identify potential markers that could inform breeding strategies to improve both productivity and environmental sustainability in the industry.
Is there anything else about your research that you would like to share?
Definitely! What I find most exciting and unique about my work is that it involves samples from animals that are also being monitored for performance traits like feed intake and growth. When this information is integrated with genomic and transcriptomic data, it not only highlights the genes and pathways involved but also strengthens the connection between molecular signals and real-world traits.
The comprehensiveness of this approach will provide a deeper insight into the biological processes behind differences in feed efficiency and methane emissions, offering a more grounded perspective on these complex yet crucial traits.
What is your goal after completing this degree?
My goal is to lead a research group in academia, though I’m also interested in opportunities in industry, focusing on projects that uncover molecular insights into important traits and furthering selection programs.
What are your funding sources for this project?
My project is funded in part by the Resilient Dairy Genome Project, the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance, and Beef Farmers of Ontario, with additional support provided through OAC awards.
Is there anyone else working with you on this project?
Absolutely! So many people contribute to this project. Visiting Ph.D. and undergraduate summer students have helped with sample collection, and our postdoctoral fellow, Victoria Asselstine, provides ongoing support and guidance. I’ve also worked closely with members of Dr. Michael Steele’s lab during several trials, including Titouan Chapelain, Lucia Pisoni, Kayleigh Klein, and Walmir Silva.
Also, a key part of keeping the work at the Ontario Beef Research Centre in Elora running smoothly is thanks to Timothy Caldwell whose oversight is invaluable to this research.
