Dr. Alexander Little serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology within McMaster University's Faculty of Science. His research bridges molecular mechanisms with ecological consequences across diverse animal systems. His primary research domains include: Animal physiological ecology and environmental stress responses Thyroid hormone signaling in thermal adaptation Epigenetic regulation of developmental plasticity Metabolic and cardiovascular adaptations in ectotherms Ecotoxicological impacts of environmental contaminants Over the past decade, his publication record demonstrates consistent focus on how environmental variation shapes physiological performance through molecular pathways. His work frequently examines thyroid hormone-mediated mechanisms linking environmental cues to epigenetic changes, particularly in thermal acclimation contexts. Recent articles highlight emerging concerns about climate change impacts on ectotherm physiology, with specific attention to sex-specific vulnerabilities and recovery dynamics following environmental stressors. Dr. Little actively contributes to academic training through courses including Environmental Physiology (BIOLOGY 728), Animal Physiology - Regulatory Systems (BIOLOGY 3UU3), and Cell Physiology (BIOLOGY 3P03).
Ružica Trailović is an Associate Professor at the Department of Animal Husbandry within the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Belgrade. She teaches a diverse range of courses including Clinical Pathology and Therapy of Hoofed Animals, Clinical Pathology and Therapy of Cats, Animal Husbandry, Cynology and Feline Science, Breeding and Care of Sports Horses, Sports Medicine, Breeding and Care of Dogs and Cats, Veterinary Genetics, and Biotechnology in Veterinary Medicine. Her educational background, while not explicitly detailed in the provided text, is evident from her extensive scholarly work and teaching responsibilities. She holds a doctorate (dr) and has achieved the rank of Associate Professor (vanredni profesor) at a prestigious Serbian academic institution. Professor Trailović's research focuses primarily on veterinary genetics and the conservation of autochthonous Balkan livestock breeds. Her work spans multiple species including sheep (particularly Zackel, Pramenka, and Karakachan breeds), horses (Yugoslav Trotters), dogs (Yugoslav Shepherds), goats, and donkeys. She has made significant contributions to understanding blood protein polymorphisms, genetic diversity, morphometric characteristics, and welfare assessment of traditional Balkan animal breeds. Her research methodology often combines classical animal husbandry approaches with modern genetic and biochemical analysis techniques. Her publication record shows a consistent research trajectory from the 1990s through 2020, with particular emphasis on preserving Balkan native livestock breeds through scientific documentation and genetic analysis. Her work demonstrates strong regional collaboration across Southeast Europe, particularly with researchers from Serbia, Kosovo, Macedonia, and other Balkan countries. Professor Trailović has co-authored numerous textbooks including 'Animal Husbandry - Farm and Social Animals' (2020), 'Animal Husbandry - Practical Guide' (multiple editions from 2007-2018), 'Horse Breeding and Equestrian Sports' (2009), and 'Diagnosis and Therapy of Horse Diseases' (2009), establishing herself as a leading authority in Serbian veterinary education. She has been actively involved in mentoring students through research projects, thesis supervision, and classroom instruction across multiple veterinary disciplines. Her teaching portfolio reflects comprehensive expertise spanning from basic animal husbandry to specialized clinical and genetic topics in veterinary medicine. Professor Trailović is part of a well-established research group at the University of Belgrade's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, collaborating extensively with colleagues including Mila Savić, Vladimir Dimitrijević, and Dragiša Trailović (possibly a relative given the shared surname), indicating a strong research tradition in animal genetics and breeding at this institution.
Wen Huang is an Associate Professor at the Michigan State University , affiliated with the BioMolecular Science Gateway Faculty and the Genetics & Genome Sciences Program . His research integrates genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics to study complex traits in Drosophila melanogaster and livestock species. Research Interests : Elucidating genetic architectures of quantitative traits Transposon dynamics and alternative splicing regulation Livestock genomics for agricultural improvement Publication Trends : Recent work focuses on genome-wide association studies (GWAS), telomere-to-telomere assemblies, and multi-omic analyses of gene regulation in pigs and Drosophila . Collaborative Initiatives : Co-leads large-scale projects like FarmGTEx and RT2T Consortium, aiming to improve functional annotation of animal genomes.
Mellissa Crosswhite is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences at Oklahoma State University, where she focuses on applied ruminant reproductive physiology, particularly in beef cattle and on-farm research. She holds a PhD in Animal Sciences from North Dakota State University (2017), an MS (2014), and a BS from the University of Florida (2012). Her teaching responsibilities include courses on livestock anatomy and physiology, animal growth, and professional development. She also advises undergraduate students and leads organizations such as Sigma Alpha and the Oklahoma Collegiate Cattlemen's Association. Her research explores reproductive success in livestock, with a focus on hormonal interventions and nutritional impacts during gestation. Recent work includes optimizing estrus synchronization protocols and studying the effects of trace minerals on pregnancy outcomes. She has secured funding from the USDA NCR-SARE for projects like the 'Effects of pre-breeding administration of injectable trace mineral supplements on subsequent reproductive performance in beef herds.' Teaching methodologies emphasize active learning and peer-led teams to enhance student engagement. Her scholarly contributions span 15+ peer-reviewed articles, focusing on topics like CIDR device efficacy, opioid pharmacology in veterinary contexts, and cultural intelligence in agricultural education.
Dr. Sarah Collins is a Professor in Musicology at the Conservatorium of Music, University of Western Australia (UWA). She also serves as Deputy Dean (HDR Supervision and Research Training) at UWA and holds roles including Chair of the UWA Animal Ethics Committee and Co-editor of Music & Letters (Oxford UP). Her research focuses on the intersections of music, aesthetics, and intellectual history, with notable expertise in modernism, cultural history, and political theory. Education: Collins holds a PhD in Cultural History and Musicology from the University of Queensland (2010), a Bachelor of Music (Hons) in Musicology and Performance (2006), and a Bachelor of Laws (2011), also from UQ. Research Interests: Her work examines music’s role in late-nineteenth and early-twentieth-century cultural and political contexts, including modernist ideologies, aesthetic liberalism, and the relationship between music and literature. Recent projects include an ARC-funded study on automated labor’s cultural history and collaborations with interdisciplinary groups like the UWA Tech & Policy Lab. Publications and Awards: Collins has authored acclaimed books such as Lateness and Modernism (2019) and edited volumes like Music and Victorian Liberalism (2019). She is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities and recipient of the prestigious Dent Medal (2024), McCredie Musicological Award (2019), and other honors. Teaching and Engagement: She teaches courses on contemporary debates in music, music and society, and sound studies. Public engagements include talks on AI, generative creativity, and music’s societal roles, featured in venues like the BBC Radio and WA Museum Boola Bardip.
Veronika Vicic is a Scholarly Teaching Fellow in Animal Science at Charles Sturt University, within the School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences. She is currently completing her PhD in Animal Sciences, focusing on the development of a sustainable supply chain for non-replacement male calves in the Australian dairy industry. Her work bridges animal production, welfare, meat science, and industry engagement. Bachelor of Animal Science (First Class Honours), Charles Sturt University (2014–2017) Doctorate of Philosophy (Animal Sciences), Charles Sturt University (in progress) Veronika's research centers on improving livestock system efficiency, particularly in beef and dairy integration. Her interests include dairy beef production, feedlot management, bovine respiratory disease (BRD), meat quality, and stakeholder engagement across the supply chain. She combines applied research with consumer and producer outreach to promote sustainable agricultural practices. Her recent publications highlight a strong focus on dairy beef supply chains, BRD diagnostics using molecular tools, and pathogen monitoring in feedlot environments. The research trends reflect a commitment to solving practical industry challenges through science-based, collaborative approaches that enhance animal welfare and economic viability. Scientific Awards: Communicate Your Research Finalist - Smartbeef (2017) Emerging Scientist Finalist - Dairy Research Foundation (2017) International Livestock Forum Scholarship Recipient (2017) Growing Young Leaders Program Recipient - Picture You in Agriculture (2020) National Council of Women NSW Australia Day Award (2022) Veronika is actively involved in mentoring and public engagement. She has supervised HDR students internally and participated in outreach programs such as the Growing Young Leaders Program. She has also been involved in grant-funded projects with industry partners like Meat and Livestock Australia. Her work emphasizes industry collaboration, knowledge transfer, and building trust between producers and consumers. She is engaged with several research teams and industry networks, including the Australian Lot Feeders Association and the Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation. Her activities include organizing and speaking at workshops, participating in public lectures, and contributing to media discussions on dairy beef and agricultural sustainability.
Cyril Stephen is a Professor at the School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences at Charles Sturt University, Australia. He is an active researcher and registered supervisor, with a strong focus on animal reproduction, particularly in beef cattle, sheep, and horses. His work integrates veterinary science, agricultural systems, and reproductive physiology, with significant contributions to understanding the impact of phytoestrogens on fertility and developing innovative technologies like the remote calving alert device. Education: BVSc & AH (Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry) DVSc (Doctor of Veterinary Science) MANZCVS (Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists) DipACT (Diploma in Animal Clinical Techniques) His research interests center on theriogenology , phytoestrogen effects on livestock fertility , embryo development , and reproductive management in agricultural animals . He investigates how natural compounds in pasture legumes affect conception rates and reproductive outcomes in cattle and sheep, aiming to improve breeding efficiency and animal welfare. The analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on reproductive challenges in livestock, particularly the influence of environmental and nutritional factors such as phytoestrogens. His work also extends to technological innovations in monitoring calving and improving neonatal survival. A recurring theme is the integration of clinical veterinary practice with agricultural science to solve real-world farming problems. Scientific Contributions and Recognition: Active editorial board member of Clinical Theriogenology Peer reviewer for the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance Tier 1 Research Program Invited speaker at the International Symposium of the Indian Society for Study of Animal Reproduction (ISSAR) 2021 Featured in multiple media outlets including ABC Southern Queensland for public engagement on calf loss prevention Cyril Stephen supervises both Honours and higher degree research (HDR) students, contributing to the next generation of veterinary and agricultural scientists. He has been involved in grant review responsibilities and collaborative research projects, particularly in the area of fertility control and reproductive technology. His work is supported by institutional and external engagement, reflecting strong interdisciplinary collaboration. He is affiliated with the Gulbali Research Institute at Charles Sturt University, which focuses on agricultural, environmental, and veterinary research. His team works on projects ranging from basic reproductive physiology to applied technology development, including sensor-based monitoring systems for extensive beef systems. Future research directions likely include expanding fertility control methods, refining reproductive technologies, and enhancing pasture management strategies to mitigate phytoestrogen risks.
Prof. Dr. Turgut KIRMIZIBAYRAK is a full-time Professor at the Department of Animal Husbandry and Nutrition , Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Turkey. He holds a PhD in Animal Science from Istanbul University (1996) and a BSc in Veterinary Medicine from Yüzüncü Yıl University (1988). His academic career spans 1991–2025, including roles as Department Head (2018–2021) and Chair of the Field of Veterinary Animal Science (2016–present). Education : PhD in Animal Science (Istanbul University, 1996) BSc in Veterinary Medicine (Yüzüncü Yıl University, 1988) Research Interests focus on genetic characterization of native livestock , growth performance analysis , reproductive traits in poultry and bees , and carcass quality metrics . His work integrates biostatistics, molecular biology, and traditional animal husbandry practices. Recent Publications (2022–2024) highlight his expertise in microsatellite-based genetic studies (Zavot cattle), gender-specific growth modeling (geese, ducks), and phytomedical interventions (Ferula communis in rats). Collaborative projects with B. Boğa-Kuru and S. Karadağ emphasize regional agricultural sustainability. Professional Leadership includes heading the Veterinary Animal Science Field (2016–2024) and advising 5 doctoral theses. He has reviewed for journals like Kafkas University Veterinary Faculty Dergisi and TÜBİTAK , with 310 citations and an h-index of 10.
Dr. John Michael Gonzalez is a Professor in the Department of Animal and Dairy Science at the University of Georgia's College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences. He joined UGA in April 2019 with a 20% teaching and 80% research appointment after serving on the faculty at Kansas State University from June 2011 to March 2019. PhD in Animal Sciences from University of Florida (2008) MS in Animal Sciences from Sul Ross State University (2005) BS in Agricultural Economics from Texas A&M University (2002) Dr. Gonzalez's research program focuses on three main areas: cellular influencers of muscle growth related to meat quality (particularly muscle fiber size/type and collagen crosslinks); novel technologies for manipulating muscle growth through feed additives, management strategies, and breeding; and cellular mechanisms of muscle fatigue during livestock transportation. His work has significant implications for improving meat quality, animal welfare, and production efficiency. His recent publications (2023-2025) show a strong emphasis on nicotinamide riboside supplementation across various species, meat quality assessment, and participation in the National Beef Quality Audit. These works span beef, pork, and poultry production systems with a consistent focus on muscle biology and meat science applications. Student Career Success Influencer Award (2023) Student Career Success Influencer Award (2024) Dr. Gonzalez has secured substantial funding from diverse sources including USDA NIFA, Georgia Commodity Commission for Beef, Huvepharma, Genus PIC, and various industry partners. His research program includes multiple ongoing projects focused on nicotinamide riboside applications, heat stress impacts, vitamin D supplementation, and meat quality analysis. While specific lab details aren't provided in the text, his work involves extensive collaboration with other researchers across multiple institutions as evidenced by his numerous co-authored publications.
Gerald Borgia is a Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Maryland's College of Computer, Mathematical and Natural Sciences, with affiliations at the Brain and Behavior Institute. His office is located in the Biology-Psychology Building (4239). He earned his Ph.D. in 1978 from the University of Michigan, specializing in the evolution of mate choice, social structure, and sociobiology. Borgia leads the Borgia Lab, which studies the evolution of mate choice and male display in nonresource-based mating systems, using bowerbirds as a model system. His research focuses on sexual selection, lek mating systems, complex male displays, female mate choice strategies, threat reduction in courtship, and the co-option of display traits. The lab maintains a long-term field site at Wallaby Creek in Australia for studying satin bowerbirds. Analysis of Borgia's recent publications shows consistent themes in sexual selection and animal communication. His work demonstrates increasing sophistication in experimental approaches, including robotic females, chemical manipulation of bowers, and cognitive testing. Recent articles focus on the role of cognitive ability in mating success, chemical signaling through bower paint, dynamic adjustment of male displays, and the relationship between aerobic capacity and sexual performance. Borgia actively advises graduate students and maintains a substantial research team. He recruits field assistants for Australian fieldwork and laboratory volunteers for video analysis. His NSF-funded research supports graduate students working on diverse projects including mate searching, juvenile display development, male-female signaling dynamics, and aerobic capacity studies. The lab collaborates with molecular systematists at the Smithsonian Institution and National Zoo.
Scott A. Shaffer is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at San José State University , specializing in the physiological ecology of vertebrate animals with particular emphasis on birds and mammals. His research integrates advanced biologging technologies with traditional ecological methods to understand animal behavior and energy dynamics in marine environments. PhD in Biology (2000), University of California, Santa Cruz MSc in Marine Sciences (1996), University of California, Santa Cruz BSc in Biology (1993), San Diego State University Shaffer's work focuses on bioenergetics and movement ecology of marine vertebrates, utilizing the doubly labeled water technique to measure field metabolic rates and water flux. He has pioneered the application of microprocessor-based data logging tags to track animal behavior and physiology in remote environments, contributing to understanding how species like albatrosses and seals interact with their marine habitats. His publication record (1997-2009) demonstrates expertise in: Seabird migration patterns (2006: shearwaters across Pacific) Physiological constraints on foraging (2008: albatross energy budgets) Endocrine regulation of behavior (2007: corticosterone in seabirds) Tracking technology validation (2005: geolocation methods) Comparative movement analysis (2003: albatross foraging strategies) Flight and diving mechanics (2000: albatross wind utilization) Shaffer has been instrumental in developing standardized approaches for marine mammal behavior studies (2006) and investigating physiological tradeoffs in long-lived species like the wandering albatross (2006: hormonal aging studies). His work bridges physiological measurements with broader ecological questions about resource use and conservation in marine systems.
Rachel Allavena is a Professor and Deputy Head of School at the School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland . She specializes in veterinary pathology and comparative medicine , developing cancer immunotherapies using pet dogs with natural cancer as models for human oncology. Her work bridges veterinary and human medicine, focusing on translational research . She also leads forensic pathology investigations for Racing Queensland , Queensland Police , and RSPCA Queensland , advocating for animal cruelty prevention . PhD in Comparative Medicine (Cornell University) Postgraduate Diploma in Veterinary Anatomic Pathology (University of Guelph) Bachelor of Veterinary Biology and Honours (University of Queensland) Her research spans comparative oncology (including canine brain cancer, lymphoma, melanoma, osteosarcoma ), koala conservation (co-developer of KoalaBASE database), and envenomation studies . She has trained ACVP board-certified pathologists and developed drug safety testing protocols in the UK pharmaceutical sector. Her immunotherapy trials have achieved 20% cure rates in terminal canine cancer patients. 2015 - Faculty of Science Teaching Excellence Award 2021 - UQ Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning As a media expert , she has featured in international outlets and delivered a TEDx talk on canine cancer therapy. She actively supervises PhD/MPhil students in projects like Canine Osteosarcoma Immunotherapy and Feline GI Lymphomas . Her team explores biometallic implants and forensic pathology applications.
E. Albert Reece, MD, PhD, MBA, is a Professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences. He serves as the CARTI Endowed Professor and Director of the Center for Advanced Research Training and Innovation (CARTI), and is a Senior Scientist at the Center for Birth Defects Research. Dr. Reece is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and previously served as Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs and Dean of the School of Medicine. His educational background includes: Bachelor of Science (Magna Cum Laude) from Long Island University MD from New York University School of Medicine PhD in Biochemistry from the University of the West Indies MBA from Temple University Residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Columbia University Medical Center Postdoctoral Fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine at Yale University School of Medicine Dr. Reece's research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of diabetes-induced birth defects , particularly examining cytoarchitectural changes at the cellular level and biochemical alterations including membrane lipid depletion and oxidative stress. His laboratory employs rat and mouse models to investigate apoptotic pathways, JNK signaling, and protein kinase C isoforms in diabetic embryopathy, with emphasis on developing preventive interventions through vitamin and lipid therapies. His work bridges basic science with clinical applications in prenatal diagnosis and fetal therapy. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent trajectory toward molecular mechanistic understanding of diabetic embryopathy, with increasing focus on oxidative stress signaling, specific apoptotic pathways, and genetic factors. His research demonstrates the progression from clinical observations of birth defect patterns to detailed cellular and molecular investigations, culminating in targeted therapeutic strategies. The interdisciplinary nature spans obstetrics, biochemistry, developmental biology, and molecular pharmacology. Scientific recognition includes: Distinguished Leadership Award (2009) Berson Medical Alumni Achievement Award in Health Sciences (2010) Distinguished Service Award from Loma Linda University (2010) Election to the National Academy of Medicine Dr. Reece has directed NIH-funded multi-million dollar research programs and served on influential committees including the FDA, NIH, Institute of Medicine, and March of Dimes Scientific Advisory Committee on Prematurity. His leadership extended to chairing the Association of American Medical Colleges Council of Deans and developing the ANGELS telemedicine system for rural obstetrical care. He has mentored numerous faculty and established performance-based incentive models for academic medicine. He directs the Center for Advanced Research Training and Innovation (CARTI), fostering interdisciplinary research in maternal-fetal health, and co-founded embryofetoscopy techniques for early prenatal diagnosis and potential fetal therapy. His laboratory group maintains active investigations into diabetes-induced embryopathy mechanisms while translating findings into clinical practice.
Dr. Edyta Rzewucka-Wójcik serves as a Researcher in the Department of Ruminant Sciences at the Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Szczecin, and contributes to the Molecular Biology Laboratory. Holding a Doctor of Engineering degree, she specializes in ruminant production systems and genetic analysis. Her research focuses on: Genetic markers in livestock breeding Carcass quality evaluation Milk protein polymorphisms Reproductive management under varying housing conditions Meat performance traits in cattle crossbreeds BSE susceptibility genotyping Publications from 2002-2005 reveal consistent expertise in integrating molecular biology with practical animal husbandry, particularly in West Pomeranian dairy farms and beef production systems. Her work bridges genetic research with on-farm applications to improve livestock productivity. Scientific awards: None documented in source materials. Research funding: Committee for Scientific Research Promotional Grant: Analysis of meat performance traits in Charolais/Simmental crossbreeds incorporating LEP, GDF-8, and PRNP genetic markers She actively collaborates within the Molecular Biology Laboratory research team, focusing on animal biotechnology applications for ruminant production systems and contributing to the university's partnership with the Polish Society of Animal Production.
Wendy Wall is the Avalon Professor of the Humanities and Charles Deering McCormick Professor of Teaching Excellence in the Department of English at Northwestern University’s Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences. Her research spans early modern literature and culture, with focuses on gender/sexuality studies, women’s writing, poetry, food studies, theater, and digital humanities. She co-created The Pulter Project , an open-access critical edition of 17th-century poet Hester Pulter’s work, and authored influential books like Recipes for Thought and Staging Domesticity . Education: PhD in English from the University of Pennsylvania Her research integrates material culture, textual editing, and interdisciplinary approaches. Recent work explores Hester Pulter’s poetry and the intersections of domestic labor, gender, and early modern identity. Professor Wall’s public humanities initiatives include teaching at Stateville Prison and collaborating with Chicago’s cultural institutions. Her scholarship has earned prestigious awards, including the MLA’s James Russell Lowell Prize nomination and the Charles Deering McCormick Professorship. She co-edited Renaissance Drama (1997–2005) and teaches courses on global Shakespeare, Renaissance poetry, and contemporary fiction. Key Themes: Domesticity, authorship, print culture, digital humanities, prison education, and feminist literary criticism
