معرفی
Juan J. Villalba is a Professor and Associate Dean for Research at the Quinney College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Utah State University. His research focuses on ruminant nutrition, foraging behavior, and plant-herbivore interactions, particularly the role of phytochemical diversity in livestock health and sustainable agriculture.
- PhD, Range Science (Foraging Behavior), Utah State University, 1996
- MS, Plant Production, National Southern University, 1991
- BS, Biochemistry & Chemistry, National Southern University, 1985
Dr. Villalba’s work explores how plant secondary compounds like tannins influence livestock diet selection, self-medication against parasites, and adaptation to climate change. He has authored over 100 peer-reviewed articles and 6 book chapters, with recent studies on phytochemical foodscapes and sustainable grazing systems.
His research trends highlight interdisciplinary approaches in Animal Science, Ecology, and Climate-Resilient Agriculture, emphasizing the integration of Tannin-Containing Forages, Behavioral Nutrition, and Grazing Management. Awards include the 2023 Keynote at the International Symposium on Herbivore Nutrition and the 2016 Researcher of the Year at Utah State University.
- 2023 Keynote Speaker, International Symposium on Herbivore Nutrition
- 2020 President Oral Presentation, American Society of Animal Science
- 2017 Dr. Eduardo Urzaiz Rodriguez Chair Award, University of Yucatan
- 2016 Researcher of the Year, Quinney College of Natural Resources
- 2015 Paper of the Month, Journal of Animal Science
Dr. Villalba mentors PhD and MS students in projects related to plant-herbivore interactions, forage quality, and livestock behavior. He teaches courses like WILD 4340/6340 - Range Ruminant Nutrition and Management and WILD 7030 - Plant-Herbivore Interactions.
