Oscar Javier BenitezView profile
Assistant Professor
Dr. Oscar Javier Benitez serves as an Assistant Professor with dual appointments in the Department of Veterinary Sciences at Texas Tech University's Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources (Lubbock campus) and the School of Veterinary Medicine (Amarillo campus). His research program integrates epidemiology, cellular biology, immunology, and molecular techniques to address critical infectious disease challenges impacting cattle health, productivity, and welfare across the United States livestock industry. Education: Ph.D. from Michigan State University Postdoctoral Training at Texas Tech University Postdoctoral Training at Wayne State University Dr. Benitez's research focuses on three primary disease mechanisms: immune dysfunction in bovine leukemia virus infections, gastrointestinal health impacts of dietary xylo-oligosaccharides from sorghum stover in dairy calves, and liver abscess pathogenesis in cattle. He employs advanced methodologies including transcriptomic analyses, immune cell assays, epithelial cell culture systems, and molecular characterization of host-pathogen dynamics to develop cellular adhesion models that elucidate complex pathogen interactions and inform disease prevention strategies. Scientific Recognition: 2024 Outstanding Research Award from Davis College for excellence in veterinary science research As an active mentor, Dr. Benitez guides graduate students and serves on numerous doctoral and master's committees while leading multiple federally funded research projects. He teaches foundational graduate courses in pathophysiology and immunology with emphasis on translational research applications. His work operates within Texas Tech University's Institute for One Health Innovation framework, addressing interconnected animal, human, and environmental health challenges. Professional engagements include membership in the American Association of Bovine Practitioners, the Board of Veterinary Medicine (COMVEZCOL, Colombia), and collaborative networks focused on advancing sustainable livestock production systems through innovative cellular and molecular research approaches.








