Jamie Courter

Jamie Courter is an Assistant Professor and State Beef Extension Specialist in the Division of Animal Sciences at the University of Missouri's College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR). Their research focuses on beef cattle genetics, animal behavior, and genomic applications in livestock production. They hold a Ph.D. in Animal Breeding and Genetics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, an M.S. from South Dakota State University, and a B.S. from North Carolina State University.

Research interests include optimizing beef cattle genetics through genomic tools, understanding cattle temperament and its physiological correlates, and improving livestock management practices. Dr. Courter emphasizes the development of reliable behavioral assessment methods and the application of genomic selection to enhance breed composition in composite animals.

Recent work explores how repeated handling influences cattle behavior and stress responses, with findings indicating significant acclimation effects when using individualized confinement. They are actively involved in training programs to standardize temperament evaluations and reduce observer bias in livestock assessments.

Current efforts include accepting graduate students for research in animal health, beef production systems, and genomic technologies. Their lab is located in the Animal Sciences Research Center, focusing on translating genetic insights into practical industry solutions.