David L. Harmon

David L. Harmon, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences at the University of Kentucky’s Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. He joined UK in 1991 and specializes in ruminant nutrition with a focus on beef cattle, addressing challenges like fescue toxicosis and digestive efficiency.

Research Interests:

• Investigating physiological impacts of fescue toxicosis on cattle
• Improving digestive efficiency in ruminants fed grain-based diets
• Developing sustainable feeding strategies for Kentucky cattle producers

Scientific Awards:

• 2024-25 University Research Professor (University of Kentucky Board of Trustees)

Contributions: Harmon’s research has supported training for over 50 students and generated $7 million in grants. His work focuses on solving agricultural challenges in Kentucky, particularly those affecting cattle producers’ profitability through improved nutrition and toxin mitigation strategies.