Darrin Boss

Dr. Darrin Boss is a Research Professor and Associate Director at the Montana Agricultural Experiment Station (MAES), serving as Assistant Dean for Research and Superintendent of the Northern Ag Research Center (NARC). He holds roles in both research administration and field operations, focusing on agricultural science with expertise in ruminant nutrition, beef cattle systems, and cover crop utilization.

• Education:
  • Ph.D. in Plant Sciences from Montana State University (2008)
  • M.S. in Plant Sciences from Montana State University (1994)
  • B.S. in Agricultural Sciences from Ohio State University (1992)
  • B.S. in Animal Sciences from Ohio State University (1990)

His research interests center on optimizing beef cattle production through ruminant nutrition, evaluating cover crops in semi-arid agricultural systems, and understanding environmental interactions affecting livestock. His work bridges applied field research with microbiological and genetic analyses. Recent studies explore climate impacts on cattle performance, microbial responses to cover crops, and genetic efficiency in livestock.

Dr. Boss leads major grants from USDA-NIFA’s Western SARE program, focusing on sustainable agricultural practices. He actively serves on committees including the Western Section American Society of Animal Science, Havre Lions Scholarship Committee, and preservation initiatives like the Fort Assinniboine National Registry project.

• Awards:
  • 2024 Provost Lecture Award (Montana State University)
  • 2019 Montana Preservation Award

He oversees NARC’s field operations and organizes annual agricultural outreach events such as the NARC Ag Appreciation Banquet, fostering community engagement in agricultural research.