David H. Townson

Dr. David H. Townson is a Professor of Reproductive Physiology at the University of Rhode Island (URI), specializing in the intersection of nutrient metabolism and reproductive systems in animals. He holds a Ph.D. in Dairy Science from The Ohio State University (1993) and has held academic positions at the University of New Hampshire and the University of Vermont. His research focuses on ovarian function, immune responses in reproductive tissues, and the role of O-GlcNAcylation in folliculogenesis and cancer.

Education highlights include:

• B.S. in Animal Husbandry, Michigan State University (1984)
• M.S. in Veterinary Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison (1988)
• Ph.D. in Dairy Science, The Ohio State University (1993)
• Postdoctoral training at the University of Michigan (Reproductive Sciences Program)

Research interests include:

• Metabolic regulation of ovarian function in dairy cows
• O-GlcNAcylation pathways in granulosa cells
• Immune-cell recruitment mechanisms in the ovary
• Role of chemokines in luteal function
• Endometrial cancer signaling pathways

Recent publications emphasize O-GlcNAcylation’s role in tumor biology and reproductive physiology, as well as immune interactions in the corpus luteum. His work combines systems physiology with molecular biology, using livestock, rodents, and cell culture models. Dr. Townson’s lab actively explores translational applications of metabolic signaling in reproductive health.