Ryan Cox

Ryan Cox is an Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Science at the University of Minnesota, affiliated with the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences. His work bridges meat science, food safety, and animal production systems. He is associated with the Meat Science Laboratory and Beef Extension programs, contributing to both academic and practical advancements in animal product utilization.

Dr. Cox holds a Ph.D. in Animal and Food Sciences from the University of Kentucky (2008), an M.S. in Animal Science from Auburn University (2004), and a B.S. in Animal Science from the same institution (2002). His educational background laid the foundation for his expertise in meat quality and safety.

His research focuses on value-added animal product processing and safety, feeding biofuel by-products to livestock and their impact on meat quality, pre-harvest effects on consumer perception of meat quality, and innovative processed meat technologies. These interests align with sustainable and consumer-responsive food systems.

Though specific recent publications are not listed in the provided text, his broad research portfolio spans meat science, food technology, and animal nutrition, indicating consistent contributions to applied agricultural science.

• Annual Honored Guest and Lecturer, Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors Annual Convention, 2011
• Gamma Sigma Delta Agriculture Honor Society, Inducted Spring, 2007
• American Meat Science Association, Graduate Student Poster Competition, 2004
• Auburn University Meat Science Association, Scholarship Recipient, 2003 and 2004
• Auburn University Meat Science Association, Golden Cleaver Award, 2002
• Auburn University Meat Science Association, Outstanding Graduate Student Award, 2002

Dr. Cox contributes to academic training as a guest lecturer in multiple courses, including ANSC 1511, ANSC 2012, ANSC 4099, ANSC 4601, ANSC 8211, CVM 6796, FScN 4332, and FScN 8331. While formal advisees are not listed, his teaching and laboratory involvement suggest mentorship of students in meat science and animal production. He has been supported by extension and research initiatives, particularly through Beef Extension and the Meat Science Laboratory.

He is actively involved in the Meat Science Laboratory and collaborates with Beef Extension, indicating strong ties to both research and outreach in animal agriculture. These roles support technology transfer to industry stakeholders and the development of safe, high-quality meat products.