UFGI faculty profile – alan ealy

Name:  Alan Ealy

Born:  Mercer, Pennsylvania

Position at UF:  Assistant Professor, Animal Sciences Department, CALS.

Job before this one:  Assistant Professor, Dairy and Animal Science Department, Penn State University, State College, Pa.

Current research interest, in layman’s terms:  The main focus of our research is to better understand how the placenta develops and acts as an endocrine organ in ruminant species, such as the cow and sheep. Currently, we are investigating the role of the uterus in regulating placental development and hormone
production in cattle and other ruminants. Also, we are interested in uncovering the molecular mechanisms that control the expression of interferon-tau, placental lactogen and other placental-specific genes in the cow. The overall goal of this work is to transfer information gained from our endocrine and molecular studies back to the animal in the hope that we will be able to improve pregnancy success in cattle.

Prior Research:  Previous research topics have included luteal function in dairy cattle, the effects of elevated temperature on embryonic development and the biological effects of interferon-tau isoforms.

Education:   B.S., 1987, Dairy Production, Penn State University.  M.S., 1990,
Animal Science, Michigan State University.  Ph.D., 1994, Animal Science, University of Florida.

Family: Wife (Sally), one child (Ellie; 3 years) and many pets.

When I'm not at work, I am:  Cleaning up after my wife’s horses or working on my tractor.

The best thing that I've done lately that no one knows about:  The lab may have come up with a way to generate binucleated bovine placental cells in vitro. 

Last non-work related book:  “Perception Point” by Dan Brown.

Last movie and your thoughts:  “Sahara.”  It had a good mix of action, suspense and humor.

Something always in your refrigerator:  Mountain Dew. I love the stuff.

People would be surprised to know that:  I began my collegiate career as an accounting major (two semesters).

Contact me at: ealy@animal.ufl.edu