Gayathri (Gaya) Rajamanickam
Research Andrologist
What is your background?
Canada has been my second home for more than a decade now. I grew up and finished my Veterinary Sciences degree in India and moved to Canada to complete my Ph.D. in Reproductive Biology at the University of Calgary.
What are your personal responsibilities in your position?
In my current role, my responsibilities include working on dedicated research projects and sharing the knowledge gained from such projects with PEAK leadership and stakeholders. I also serve as a technical expert for staff in the production and quality control laboratories in Canada and provide technical support for PEAK and PEAK partners.
Why did you choose PEAK?
PEAK is a leader in the industry and I can see myself growing professionally in this position. I believe I can apply all the skills that I have acquired so far to this particular role and can’t really think of a better position than this one to grow along with the organization.
What motivates you to come to work each day?
As a researcher, I am motivated by creative research projects, teamwork, and success. The R&D team is a huge motivation to come to work every day as we consistently try to challenge the way things are done. We always end up brainstorming on how to do things better, and coming up with innovative solutions and it always leads to productive discussions. Success at a personal and organizational level is yet another factor that drives me to do a good job every day.
What is the most important thing to know about the PEAK R&D team and your role?
PEAK R&D is growing to be the point of contact for all the research and development activities in URUS. As an R&D team member, my goal is to support URUS’s long-term mission to build long-term relationships with beef and dairy producers by developing innovative products and services.
What are you most excited about in regard to the PEAK R&D team?
I am most excited about all the research projects that we have put in place for this year and really looking forward to the end results and implementation. I am also equally excited about collaborating and working towards something big— a common goal of providing superior genetics and high fertility semen.
What big question or challenge do you wish to solve in your career?
At some point, I would like to come up with a bull-side fertility predictor kit or a 3D-printed semen sorter device.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
Hanging out with my boys is my favorite pastime and exploring the endless opportunities and picturesque landscape that Alberta/Canada has to offer.
If you could have one item in your fridge at all times, what would it be and why?
Cheese is our family favorite. My boys love it.
