Dr. Laura Hernandez, Professor of lactation physiology in the department of Animal & Dairy Sciences and affiliate professor in obstetrics and gynecology was one of nine professors to receive a prestigious Vilas Faculty Mid-Career Investigator Award, recognizing research and teaching excellence. The award provides flexible research funding for three years.
Dr. Hernandez’s research focuses on autocrine/paracrine factors that regulate milk synthesis and secretion, particularly during the transition periods of pregnancy to lactation and lactation to the dry period. The goal of Dr. Hernandez’s research is to elucidate novel methods for improving the ability of dairy cattle to maximize their lactation potential, either by improving the transition to lactation and/or alleviating dry period issues.
The Vilas awards are supported by the estate of professor, U.S. Senator and UW Regent William F. Vilas (1840-1908).