Dr. Taylor Seay first graduated from The University of Tennessee Knoxville (UTK) with her bachelor’s degree in animal science (2016). Taylor became interested in research during her undergraduate program, which led to continuing at UTK for graduate school. She finished her Masters (2018) and PhD (2022) programs in the Animal Science department with a focus on reproductive physiology. Her research evaluated the bovine female reproductive tract microbiome, factors that influence the microbiome composition, and how the microbiome influences fertility outcomes. These research questions allowed Taylor to first utilize Omics techniques through 16S sequencing, transcriptomics, and metabolomics. Following completion of her doctorate program, she started her career as a Research Associate in the UT Institute of Agriculture’s Genomics Center for the Advancement of Agriculture. During this role, Taylor gained valuable experience in the use of numerous genomic techniques, across various biological sample types and species, for next generation sequencing including whole genome, single-cell RNA, and bulk-RNA sequencing.

Taylor’s hobbies include showing her Golden Retrievers and Shetland Sheepdogs with multiple achievements in various AKC sports across the country. As a native Tennessean and “VFL” Taylor also loves to attend UT sporting events with her husband and family.

Taylor is excited to accomplish the mission of the Omics Hub by utilizing her scientific knowledge, technical experience, and passion for agriculture to support UTIA faculty and students and their interdisciplinary research.

Please contact Taylor Seay via email (tault1@utk.edu) with any questions.