Associate Professor Γκολιομύτης Μιχαήλ specializes in Animal Husbandry at the Department of Animal Science, Agricultural University of Athens. He holds a PhD from the same institution (2000) and teaches graduate/postgraduate courses. His research focuses on growth models, natural antioxidants in animal nutrition, and quality of animal products (meat, eggs). He has authored 26 peer-reviewed articles and participated in four EU/Greek-funded research projects. Education: PhD in Animal Science (2000), Agricultural University of Athens. Research interests include oxidative stability in poultry meat/eggs, immune response in broilers, and utilization of natural antioxidants like citrus flavonoids. Recent work explores agro-industrial byproducts in livestock feed and renewable energy integration in farms. Publications trends emphasize antioxidant applications in meat/ dairy products and sustainable farming practices. Key topics include yoghurt acid whey marination, mushroom waste in poultry diets, and renewable energy systems for farms. No scientific awards explicitly mentioned. Advising/grants: Collaborated on EU-funded projects focusing on livestock nutrition and sustainability. Lab affiliation: Laboratory of Animal Breeding & Husbandry at AUA. Future work likely involves extending antioxidant research to new animal products and optimizing circular economy approaches in Greek agriculture.
Dr. Μαυρομμάτης Αλέξανδρος is an Assistant Professor at the Laboratory of Nutritional Physiology & Feeding, Agricultural University of Athens (AUA). He holds a BSc in Agriculture Science (2014) and a PhD in Animal Nutrition (2019) from AUA. His postdoctoral research (2019-2021) focused on microalgae’s effects on goat microbiomes using metagenomics. He has lectured at the Veterinary School of Thessaly and the Department of Agribusiness & Supply Chain Management (AUA), and served as a visiting scholar at the Consorzio Agrario di Parma (2022). Education: BSc (2014) & PhD (2019) in Animal Science from AUA. Research Focus: Feed additives, rumen microbiome modulation (metagenomics/metabolomics), gene expression in immune-oxidative pathways, and microalgae applications. Projects: Participated in EU-funded projects (2019–2022) and led studies on camelina seeds and citrus by-products in livestock diets. His research emphasizes sustainable animal nutrition, valorization of agricultural by-products, and omics-based approaches to improve livestock productivity and health. Recent work highlights the role of probiotics, microalgae, and phytochemicals in modulating rumen microbiota and enhancing antioxidant defenses. Key collaborations include studies with the University of Parma and projects addressing antibiotic resistance in Greek dairy farms. His work bridges fundamental science and applied nutrition, contributing to eco-friendly feed solutions and improved dairy quality.
Πουλοπούλου Ιωάννα is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal Science at the Agricultural University of Athens, specializing in forage resources and fodder production. Her research focuses on pasture-based livestock systems, secondary plant metabolites in animal nutrition, and animal welfare in small-scale farming. She holds a BSc from the Agricultural University of Athens, an MSc from the University of Aberdeen, and a PhD from her current institution. Her research interests include evaluating feed additives, improving pasture management, and studying the impact of grazing on livestock product quality. She has conducted significant work on plant metabolites' role in traceability of animal products and anthelmintic potential of plants like Cicerbita alpina. Recent work includes developing welfare assessment tools for dairy cattle and exploring Greek oregano's industrial applications. She teaches courses on nutritional physiology and has published extensively in journals like Journal of Dairy Science and Veterinary Research Communications . Her lab, the Laboratory of Nutritional Physiology & Feeding, focuses on integrating sustainable practices with animal health and environmental stewardship in Mediterranean and mountainous regions.
Alexandros Mavrommatis is an Assistant Professor of Animal Nutrition at the Agricultural University of Athens (AUA), Department of Animal Production Science. He holds a BSc (2014) and PhD (2019) from AUA, followed by postdoctoral research on microalgae’s impact on goat rumen microbiome (2019–2021). He has taught at the University of Thessaly’s Veterinary School and AUA’s Agribusiness Department, and conducted visiting research at the Consorzio Agrario di Parma (2022). His research focuses on applied nutrition experiments with additives/alternative feeds, rumen microbiome analysis via metagenomics, and gene expression in livestock immune-oxidative pathways. He has contributed to over 30 peer-reviewed articles, including studies on Schizochytrium spp. supplementation effects in goats, camelina seeds in ewes’ diets, and carotenoid extracts in broilers. He has participated in EU/Greek-funded projects (2019–2022) and holds affiliations with the Nutrition & Diet Physiology Laboratory . His work emphasizes sustainable animal production, alternative feed utilization, and precision livestock farming technologies. Contact: mavrommatis@aua.gr , Dimakopoulos Building, AUA.
Scott Bowdridge is a Professor in the Department of Animal and Nutritional Sciences at the School of Food and Agriculture , West Virginia University. He serves as the Program Coordinator for Animal and Nutritional Sciences, focusing on improving small ruminant production through immunological and applied agricultural research. Specializes in helminth parasite resistance in sheep breeds Develops crossbreeding systems for parasite-resistant livestock Establishes fecal egg count EBV metrics for Texel sheep His research integrates basic immunology studies with field applications to combat gastrointestinal parasitism in grazing systems. Using St. Croix and Texel sheep as models, he investigates differential immune responses and cellular mechanisms that reduce parasite establishment through collaborative projects across the School of Food and Agriculture. Key publication themes include in vitro immune response modeling , cytokine dynamics , and genetic markers for parasite resistance in small ruminants. His work emphasizes translating laboratory findings into practical breeding and grazing strategies for sustainable livestock management.
Benjamin Holman is a Senior Research Scientist affiliated with the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University. His work focuses on meat quality, animal production, and sustainable agricultural systems, with a strong emphasis on lamb and beef research. He has active collaborations across Australia and China, contributing to advancements in red meat composition, shelf-life optimization, and consumer behavior analysis. Senior Research Scientist at NSW DPI, Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute External affiliations with Charles Sturt University Active in Meat Science, Food Quality, and Sustainable Agriculture Research Interests: Holman's work addresses critical challenges in meat production, including confinement odor mitigation , impact of legume intercropping on lamb growth , and fatty acid dynamics in pasture-fed livestock . His studies often integrate advanced imaging techniques like CT scans for carcass evaluation and explore consumer perceptions in key markets like China. Recent Publications (2024-2025): Highlights include meat quality studies in Meat Science , dual-use cropping systems in Animal Production Science , and shelf-life research in Small Ruminant Research . His work demonstrates a consistent focus on improving meat production efficiency and consumer satisfaction. Scientific Awards: Science and Innovation Award for Young People in Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (2017, 2020) Fresh Science Award (2018) Diploma of Scientific Achievement (2016) Editorial Contributions: Holman serves as Associate Editor for Frontiers in Food Science and Technology and on editorial boards for journals like Animals and Journal of Integrative Agriculture . His extensive publication record (>160 outputs) reflects active collaboration networks across Australia and international partners.
Professor Kominakis Antonios holds a faculty position at the Agricultural University of Athens (AUA), leading the Department of Animal Science within the School of Agricultural Sciences. He earned his BSc in Animal Production from AUA and a PhD in Animal Breeding from the University of Hohenheim, Germany. His research focuses on genetic improvement of farm animals, population genetics, genomic marker analysis, and statistical methodologies in genetic studies. Key interests include optimizing selection programs for livestock and exploring genetic associations in human and animal populations. Education: BSc in Animal Production, Agricultural University of Athens PhD in Animal Breeding, University of Hohenheim, Germany His research interests emphasize genomic selection strategies, quantitative trait loci identification, and sustainable livestock production systems. Recent work includes studies on candidate genes for somatic cell count in dairy sheep and body weight in broilers using GWAS approaches. He has also explored the genetic basis of polled phenotypes in North Aegean sheep populations. Publications highlight interdisciplinary applications, such as integrating mathematical models for farm sustainability, investigating ACE gene polymorphisms related to COVID-19 susceptibility, and analyzing dietary interventions in poultry and dairy systems. His work bridges basic genetic research with applied agricultural challenges. He is affiliated with the Laboratory of Animal Breeding & Husbandry and collaborates with international teams on topics like scrapie in goats and bovine mastitis. No formal awards are mentioned, but his prolific publication record indicates sustained academic impact. He teaches courses on animal breeding and husbandry, contributing to both undergraduate and postgraduate programs at AUA.
Eleni Tsiplakou is a Professor of Animal Nutrition with emphasis on Ruminants at the Agricultural University of Athens (AUA), affiliated with the Laboratory of Nutrition & Diet Physiology, Department of Animal Production Science. She holds a BSc (2005), MSc (2006), and PhD (2008) from AUA, followed by postdoctoral research (2010–2011) and a role as a Scientific Associate at the University of Reading, UK (2009). Her academic career includes roles as Lecturer (2011–2014), Assistant Professor (2014–2019), Associate Professor (2019–2024), and Professor (2024–present). Her research focuses on gas chromatography for fatty acid analysis in ruminants, molecular techniques for RNA/DNA isolation (e.g., RT-PCR), rumen microbiota characterization, and enzyme activity determination. She teaches courses in animal nutrition and has authored over 66 peer-reviewed articles and 104 conference abstracts. Her work spans dietary strategies for ruminant health, nutrigenomics, and sustainable livestock practices. Key projects include EU-funded studies on rumen microbiota modulation, antioxidant effects of dietary supplements (e.g., Spirulina), and valorization of agricultural by-products (e.g., Camelina sativa seeds, spent coffee grounds). She leads teams exploring environmental impacts of livestock practices and innovative feed solutions. Her laboratory, part of the Nutrition & Diet Physiology group, collaborates on national and international projects, emphasizing translational research between animal nutrition and health outcomes. She advises students on topics like functional feed additives and microbial ecology, contributing to both academic and applied research in the field.
Prof. Dr. Birger doll serves as Head of the Institute of Behavioral Physiology at the Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN) Dummerstorf and holds a joint Professorship for Behavioral Science at the University of Rostock. He simultaneously leads both the Competence Field Behavior and Husbandry and the Working Group Behavior and Animal Welfare at FBN, demonstrating his central role in advancing animal welfare science across institutional boundaries. His research bridges theoretical behavioral biology with practical agricultural applications. His academic journey includes: Habilitation as Dr. rer. nat. habil. at Justus Liebig University Giessen (2008) Doctorate in Behavioral Biology at Humboldt University of Berlin (1993) Degree in Biology (Dipl.-Biol.) at Humboldt University of Berlin (1989) Prof. doll's research program centers on behavioral biology and animal welfare in farm animals, with particular emphasis on social behavior, stress physiology, learning behavior, cognition, emotion, and bioacoustics. His work integrates sophisticated methodological approaches with practical husbandry applications, demonstrating how understanding animal cognition directly informs improved welfare practices. He has pioneered research on vocal communication in pigs, emotional processing in farm animals, and the development of behavioral indicators for welfare assessment. His theoretical contributions to applied ethology provide frameworks for translating laboratory findings into field applications. His recent publication trajectory reveals a strategic evolution toward technology-enhanced behavioral monitoring, with increasing use of automated tracking systems and sophisticated cognitive testing paradigms across multiple species (primarily pigs, but also poultry, cattle, and goats). A notable trend is the growing focus on emotional processing and affective states in farm animals, moving beyond traditional welfare indicators to understand the subjective experiences of livestock. His work consistently connects fundamental behavioral mechanisms with practical welfare outcomes. At the University of Rostock's Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Prof. doll teaches Fundamentals of Behavioral Biology (BSc), Fundamentals of Livestock Ethology and Welfare (MSc), and Expert Systems Animal Welfare (MSc), training the next generation of animal scientists. While specific grant details aren't provided in the source material, his extensive publication record spanning three decades indicates sustained research funding for projects investigating cognitive-emotional coping mechanisms, stress physiology, and welfare assessment methodologies in farm animals. Prof. doll leads research teams that have developed innovative methodologies for assessing animal welfare through integrated behavioral and physiological measures. His laboratory work has practical applications in designing farming systems that account for the cognitive and emotional capacities of animals, directly influencing animal husbandry practices across Europe. The working group he heads maintains strong connections with agricultural industry stakeholders to ensure research findings translate into improved on-farm practices.
Dr. Juliet Kariuki is a researcher at the University of Hohenheim, specializing in the social dimensions of livestock management in sub-Saharan Africa with a focus on gender and equity. She is affiliated with the Department of Social and Institutional Change in Agricultural Development and has been involved in significant research projects including the Program of Accompanying Research for Agricultural Innovation (PARI) and Payments for Ecosystem Services, Gender and Governance. Dr. Kariuki has an impressive educational background: Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences Master of Arts degree in Environment, Culture, and Society Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology Her research focuses on understanding the social dimensions of livestock management in sub-Saharan Africa, with particular attention to gender and equity considerations. She has conducted extensive work on gendered dimensions in livestock breeding, marketing, risk management, and natural resource management. Dr. Kariuki employs both qualitative and quantitative research methods to examine intra- and interhousehold dynamics between men and women in livestock-dependent households across Africa. Dr. Kariuki's publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on gender equity in agricultural systems, with recent work expanding to examine digital tools for livestock management, pandemic responses in food systems, and sustainable transitions in African agriculture. Her research spans multiple countries including Kenya, Zambia, and Burkina Faso, reflecting a commitment to comparative analysis across diverse African contexts. Dr. Kariuki has received recognition through: DAAD scholarship during her doctoral studies Research Fellowship position at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) Throughout her career, Dr. Kariuki has been actively involved in research projects funded by significant initiatives like the German government's One World, No Hunger Initiative. Her work on the PARI project (2014-2022) focused on sustainable agricultural growth and food security in Africa and India. She has collaborated extensively with Professor Regina Birner and other international researchers, demonstrating strong partnership-building capabilities across institutions and countries. Dr. Kariuki has contributed to multiple research teams examining agricultural innovation systems, with particular emphasis on how gender dynamics influence technology adoption, policy implementation, and sustainable development outcomes. Her work often bridges academic research with practical applications for development practitioners and policymakers.
Sarah Carr, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Animal Science at the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources at Kentucky State University . She works at the Atwood Research Facility in Frankfort, KY, where she develops practical solutions for small and under-resourced livestock farmers to enhance productivity and profitability. Research Focus: Whole animal health, physiology, and fertility in ruminants Primary Specialization: Interaction between nutrition and reproduction
Allan Gunn is an Associate Professor in Large Animal Theriogenology and Production Animal Medicine at Charles Sturt University, affiliated with the School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences and based in the Department of Pathobiology. He is a registered specialist in Theriogenology with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and in Australasia, and holds multiple advanced qualifications including MANZCVS and DACT. His academic and clinical work is centered at the Wagga Wagga campus, where he actively teaches and mentors veterinary students. Education: BSc.Agric BVM&S (Veterinary Degree, University of Edinburgh) MANZCVS in Horse Medicine, Animal Reproduction, and Dairy Cattle Medicine Diplomate, American College of Theriogenology (DACT) Fellow, Higher Education Academy (FHEA) Fellow, Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (FRCVS) Allan Gunn's research focuses on animal reproduction, particularly in dairy and production animals. His work spans reproductive physiology, semen biology, herd health, and clinical theriogenology. He applies experiential learning theories, such as Kolbe’s model, to veterinary education, emphasizing reflective practice and student agency. His publications and presentations at conferences like ANZCVS and the Society for Theriogenology reflect a consistent and impactful research trajectory. The 15 most recent articles demonstrate a strong emphasis on reproductive health in livestock, including bull semen evaluation, dystocia in goats, compost barn management, and the neuroendocrine regulation of reproduction. These works span both clinical case studies and applied research, often in collaboration with institutions like the University of Newcastle and the University of Melbourne. The keywords and sub-fields reflect deep engagement with theriogenology, dairy science, and veterinary andrology. Scientific Awards: Fellowship of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (FRCVS), conferred in 2020 for meritorious contributions to clinical practice. Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), awarded in 2021 for excellence in teaching and educational scholarship. Allan Gunn is actively involved in mentoring and advising a wide range of students, including DACT, DVStud, Honours, Masters, and PhD candidates. He collaborates internationally and supervises research across institutions. He has secured research outputs and engagement through grants and industry partnerships, particularly in dairy herd management and reproductive technologies. His activities include invited lectures, conference participation, and public research showcases, indicating sustained academic and industry engagement. He is associated with the Gulbali Research Institute at Charles Sturt University, where his research in animal reproduction and sustainable herd management is conducted. His work involves interdisciplinary collaboration and field-based research, contributing to both academic knowledge and practical veterinary applications.
Evert Duin is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Auburn University. His research focuses on mechanistic enzymology, metalloenzymes, and electron bifurcation processes in methane-related biochemistry. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Amsterdam (1996), followed by postdoctoral training at the University of Georgia (1996-1998) and the Max-Planck-Institute for terrestrial microbiology (1999-2002). His research interests include the biochemical mechanisms of Methyl-Coenzyme M Reductase (MCR) and Heterodisulfide Reductase (HDR), critical enzymes in methane production and oxidation. His work aims to understand MCR activation through recombinant protein studies and elucidate electron bifurcation mechanisms in HDR using site-directed mutagenesis and spectroscopic techniques. Key research contributions include discoveries on methane emission reduction in livestock and the structural-functional relationships of coenzyme F430. His findings have implications for mitigating agricultural methane emissions and advancing biofuel research. Dr. Duin's research is supported by grants focusing on enzyme mechanisms and environmental biochemistry. He collaborates extensively with institutions worldwide, contributing to interdisciplinary advancements in enzymology and microbial biochemistry.
Monica K VanKlompenberg is a Senior Lecturer and Internship Coordinator in the Department of Animal and Avian Sciences at the University of Maryland, College Park, where she has held this position since 2022. Prior to this, she served as Lecturer and Internship Coordinator from 2016 to 2022. Her academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Animal Biology from UC Davis (2013) and a B.S. in Animal Science from Michigan State University (2008). She also completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Indiana University School of Medicine (2013–2016). Her research focuses on mammary gland biology, breast cancer therapeutics, and animal physiology, with notable contributions in understanding APC gene regulation in cancer resistance and lactation physiology. Teaching specialties include anatomy, physiology, and goat management. Recipient of multiple prestigious awards, including the 2025 Provost's Excellence Award and 2023 Paul R. Poffenberger Teaching Excellence Award. Active in educational technology, developing digital tools like escape rooms for student engagement. Her grants include $12K+ from AGNR Student Technology Grants for lab upgrades and career development initiatives. She co-leads projects such as the Beef Industry Tour and Career Experience program with over $9K in funding. A dedicated educator, she coordinates internships and advises student clubs, emphasizing hands-on learning and career readiness.
Aleksander Butkiewicz serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Fundamental and Preclinical Sciences at Nicolaus Copernicus University's Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences in Toruń, Poland. His academic career integrates teaching with extensive research in veterinary anatomical sciences and reproductive biology across diverse animal species. His primary research domains include: Veterinary Anatomy and Physiological Systems Bovine and Livestock Reproductive Biology Cross-species Comparative Anatomy Studies Specialized Vascular Biology Investigations Livestock Pathology and Clinical Applications Dr. Butkiewicz's work demonstrates particular expertise in neurovascular structures, gastrointestinal morphology, and reproductive physiology across cattle, birds, deer, and exotic species. His research methodology combines detailed anatomical dissection with clinical diagnostics to address practical veterinary challenges. Analysis of his 2022-2025 publications reveals dominant research trajectories: Comprehensive vascular mapping of cerebral and gastrointestinal systems across ungulates, birds, and carnivores Advanced reproductive studies focusing on bovine oocyte quality, pregnancy outcomes, and gynecological techniques Comparative digestive anatomy analyses between ruminants and camelids Documentation of rare congenital disorders in production animals He actively contributes to interdisciplinary initiatives through membership in the NCU Emerging Field 'One Health – antimicrobial stewardship in human and veterinary medicine,' which develops integrated strategies for antimicrobial resistance mitigation across human-animal-environment interfaces.
