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About

J. Rushen is a prominent animal science researcher whose work has made significant contributions to dairy cattle management, with a particular focus on the adoption and impact of automatic milking systems (AMS) in the Canadian dairy industry. Rushen's research explores how milking technology transitions affect farm operations, animal welfare, milk production, and producer quality of life — bridging the gap between technological innovation and real-world agricultural practice. Among Rushen's most influential contributions is a series of national survey-based studies examining Canadian dairy producers' experiences with transitioning to milking robots. These investigations revealed the wide variability in labour savings, milk yield changes, and milk quality outcomes reported by producers, offering invaluable practical guidance for farmers considering AMS adoption. A 2018 study garnered 91 citations, reflecting its substantial influence on the field, while related work on farm management perceptions and cow health accumulated 76 citations. Rushen's research on cow training challenges and producer wellbeing during transitions (49 citations) further highlights a holistic approach to dairy systems research. With a body of work spanning automated milking traffic management to producer-centred perspectives, Rushen has meaningfully shaped how researchers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers understand the complexities of modernising dairy farming operations.