Josh McCann

Dr. Josh McCann is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he has served since 2016. His work integrates nutritional science with molecular biology to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of feedlot cattle operations.

Education:

• B.S. in Animal and Food Science, Texas Tech University
• M.S. in Animal Science, Texas A&M University
• Ph.D., University of Illinois

Research Interests:

Dr. McCann’s research explores how nutrition influences metabolism and performance in feedlot cattle. By examining the interplay among diet, the rumen microbiome, and gastrointestinal epithelium, he seeks to translate fundamental discoveries into practical improvements for cattle feeding operations. His laboratory employs both classical ruminant nutrition techniques and cutting-edge high-throughput molecular technologies.

Current investigations focus on:

• Determining precise rumen-degradable protein requirements for growing cattle
• Analyzing feed-intake patterns during the finishing phase
• Identifying factors that predispose cattle to ruminal acidosis
• Elucidating microbial interactions within the rumen ecosystem

Advising & Grants:

No specific students or funded projects have been listed in the provided materials.

Laboratory & Teams:

While the text does not describe laboratory facilities or research groups, it is clear that Dr. McCann leads an active research program within the Department of Animal Sciences that integrates nutritional studies with molecular approaches.