Dr. McDaneld’s research is focused towards identification and development of genetic markers for economically important traits of cattle.  Markers will be identified by fine mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with functional genes and also identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in candidate genes linked to economic traits.  This research will result in valid markers that can be utilized by the cattle industry in commercial populations to improve marker assisted selection of animals for genetic merit of production traits.