Dairy Metabolism Group

Meet the Team 

Barry Bradford

I grew on a seedstock beef operation in Iowa before getting my first experience with dairy cattle during my BS program at Iowa State University. I definitely caught the research bug and also learned how incredible dairy cows are, which motivated me to pursue my doctorate at Michigan State. I then spent 13 years on faculty at Kansas State University before returning to MSU in 2020. I still love the challenge of trying to answer complex questions, especially when answers can impact the world around us. Outside of work, I spend much of my time winning as many athletic competitions against my kids as possible, before all hope is lost.

Laman Mamedova

I earned a PhD in Biochemistry and continue to use molecular biology tools to study metabolic physiology. I conducted research in several countries and worked at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Kansas State University before strong wind brought me here to pure Michigan and join MSU in 2020. In my role as Senior Research Scientist, I help develop and validate new assays, conduct cell culture experiments, and mentor students in my dream lab. When my trusty tie-dye lab coat fails to work its magic and an experiment turns south, I work out my frustrations at the fitness center or take a walk on Red Cider River Trail.

Lynn Olthof

I am from Ferrysburg, MI and found my passion for the dairy industry while growing up on my grandparent’s dairy farm and participating in 4H and FFA. I came to Michigan State in 2017 and completed the IAT Dairy Management program before transferring into the Agribusiness Management bachelor’s degree program at MSU. Throughout my time at MSU, she was a member of the MSU Dairy Club, the MSU Dairy Judging Team, and was on the 2021 National Champion Dairy Challenge Team. I am now the Vita Plus Dairy Nutrition and Management Fellowship student within our lab where my research focuses on modeling the most profitable ways for Michigan dairy farms to grow in order to capitalize on economies of scale while being more sustainable within the industry.

Paiton McDonald

While I am originally a Wisconsinite, I grew up in North Carolina before following the call to attend Iowa State University. I finished my BS in agricultural biochemistry and international agriculture in 2022 before moving to Michigan to start my PhD program in the Bradford Lab. My research interests are to investigate the mechanisms driving nutritional modulation of the immune system in cow’s and how that translates to neonatal calves. Outside of the lab, I enjoy reading, volunteering with kiddos, and going on walks and eating ice cream with friends.

Haylee Reisinger

I grew up in central Pennsylvania and earned my BS in biology from Penn State University (We Are!). At Penn State, I became fascinated by the dairy cow, which led me here to the Bradford Lab to pursue my master's degree. My research interests include using nutritional interventions to support immune function during times of stress. I love to spend my free time enjoying the outdoors. You will probably find me on a hike or biking, and when I'm not doing those things, I most likely have my nose in a book.

Oscar Reyes

I was born in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, and from a young age, I was drawn to the world of plants and animals. I pursued my passion academically and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Agronomy from Zamorano, Honduras, in 2022. During my time there, I gained hands-on experience in various aspects of agriculture, though I found myself particularly drawn to cattle. Following graduation, I completed a one-year internship at Cornell University, focusing on dairy cattle management technology. This experience was invaluable, but my true passion for nutrition led me to pursue a Master’s Degree at the Bradford Lab. My research now centers on how nutritional interventions can enhance immune function during periods of increased pressure. Outside of work, you’ll likely find me lifting weights or going for a walk. I also enjoy a good cup of coffee and a book from time to time.

Katie Hebdon

Originally from Nampa, Idaho, I have always had a deep-rooted passion for animal agriculture. I grew up working with beef cattle and learned about the dairy industry from my grandparents on our family operation in Iowa. Throughout high school, I was active in 4-H and FFA, which further fueled my interest in agriculture and inspired me to continue my education at the University of Idaho. There, I earned a B.S. in Animal Science: Dairy Production and Agricultural Economics, along with a certificate in Commodity Risk Management. My desire to expand my knowledge and gain more hands-on experience in applied nutrition research led me to join the Bradford Lab. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors—whether fly fishing, hiking, skiing, or working with cows.

Trina VanAtta

I'm a part-time outreach specialist in the Bradford Lab supporting the Dairy Extension team.  I have a bachelor’s degree in plant sciences from Cornell University and a master’s degree in agriculture from Colorado State University. Prior to working in the Dairy Metabolism Group, I worked in the MSU Plant and Soils department evaluating new potato varieties. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, doing home renovation projects, and taking my therapy dog Scooter to visit local nursing homes.