Dr. Gerrit Koop is an Associate Professor at the Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University , where he has worked since April 2023. Previously, he served as a University Lecturer (2013-2023) and Junior University Lecturer (2011-2013). His research focuses on udder health in ruminants (cows, sheep, goats, buffalo), using (molecular) epidemiological techniques to address practical questions in both the Netherlands and low/middle-income countries, contributing to food security and safety through sustainable ruminant health management. Education : DVM (2007), Utrecht University MSc Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics (cum laude, 2009), Utrecht University PhD (2012), Utrecht University Diplomate, European College of Veterinary Public Health (2017) His team, Sustainable Ruminant Health , emphasizes preventive health strategies and translational research. He leads courses like the Prep Program for master's admissions, Basic Clinical Rotation in Farm Animal Health , and Small Ruminant Health . Scientific contributions include diagnostic test evaluation for mastitis, pathogen genomics , and decision support models integrating test data with farm-specific context. Awards include specialized certification in Veterinary Public Health (2017).
Marcio Costa is an Associate Professor in the Department of Veterinary Biomedicine at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Montreal. He holds a DVM from the University of Londrina (Brazil, 2003), a DVSc from the University of Guelph (Canada, 2010), and a PhD from the University of Guelph (Canada, 2014). His research focuses on veterinary microbiology with particular emphasis on gut microbiome studies across various animal species including horses, cows, chickens, and companion animals. Dr. Costa is affiliated with CRIPA (Centre de recherche en infectiologie porcine et avicole), GRESABO (Groupe de recherche en santé bovine), and CERCL (Centre d'expertise et de recherche clinique en santé et bien être animal). His educational background includes DVM (2003) from University of Londrina (Brazil) DVSc (2010) from University of Guelph (Canada) PhD (2014) from University of Guelph (Canada) Dr. Costa's research interests encompass Microbiology, Bacteriology, Internal Medicine for Large Animals, Farm Animals, and Companion Animals. His work investigates the complex relationships between animal hosts and their microbial communities, with particular emphasis on how these relationships influence health, disease, and productivity. His research spans multiple species and addresses critical questions about microbiome manipulation for improving animal health outcomes. Analysis of Dr. Costa's recent publications reveals a strong focus on intestinal microbiota across various animal species, with particular attention to dysbiosis, fecal microbiota transplantation techniques, and the impact of nutritional interventions on microbial communities. His work spans equine medicine, bovine reproduction, poultry production, and companion animal health, demonstrating the breadth of his research impact in veterinary medicine. Dr. Costa has secured funding from multiple sources including NSERC, MAPAQ, Mitacs, and various industry partners for projects such as developing new diagnostic tools and therapies through microbiota manipulation to enhance animal productivity and disease resistance. He has supervised at least one Master's student to completion in 2024 and continues to mentor students in the field of veterinary microbiology and microbiome research. His current projects include research on ulcerations in milk calves' abomasum, bacterial markers for predicting endometritis in dairy cows, and advanced microbiota manipulation techniques. Dr. Costa is actively involved with multiple research centers and collaborates extensively with researchers across Canada and internationally, contributing significantly to the advancement of veterinary microbiome science.
João Carlos Caetano Simões serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Veterinary Sciences at the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD) in Portugal, a position he has held continuously since 1994. His academic career spans over three decades with specialized focus on veterinary medicine, particularly in reproductive physiology and herd health management of ruminants. His educational journey includes: Veterinary Medicine degree (1993) PhD in Veterinary Sciences (2004) from UTAD Habilitation (Agregation) in Veterinary Science - Clinical Speciality (2021) from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon Simões' research centers on reproductive disorders in dairy goats and cows, with significant contributions to pseudopregnancy diagnosis using biomarkers like pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs), metabolic periparturient diseases, and semen cryopreservation techniques. His work addresses critical challenges in small ruminant production systems, including hormonal regulation of reproduction, mastitis prevention, and seasonal effects on fertility. He has pioneered diagnostic approaches for embryonic mortality and developed protocols for genetic resource conservation in Portuguese native breeds. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a concentrated research trajectory in reproductive diagnostics and metabolic health management. His work demonstrates consistent innovation in biomarker development for pseudopregnancy detection, optimization of semen cryopreservation protocols across breeds and seasons, and comprehensive investigations into periparturient metabolic disorders. The publications show strong interdisciplinary collaboration across Portuguese and international institutions, with practical applications for improving reproductive efficiency in commercial dairy operations. Simões has secured significant research funding for projects including: Follicular dynamics in Serrana goats (2002-2008, Portuguese National Funding Agency) Dissemination of Animal Insemination Technology for goats in Europe (2004, INIA) FAIR CRAFT PROJECT (1999, INIA) While specific student names aren't documented in available sources, his extensive publication record and faculty position indicate active mentorship of graduate researchers in veterinary science. As a highly active peer reviewer with over 500 reviews for 118 journals, he contributes substantially to scholarly discourse across veterinary medicine, animal science, and related disciplines.
Warren Rusche is an Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Feedlot Specialist at South Dakota State University's Department of Animal Science in Brookings, SD. His research focuses on beef cattle management, feedlot nutrition, and livestock production efficiency. He advises on feed formulation strategies, carcass quality metrics, and sustainable animal production systems. Key research areas include optimizing feed ingredient substitutions (e.g., rye/corn, DDGS/soybean meal), evaluating phytogenic and probiotic additives, and analyzing regional/seasonal feeding system impacts on cattle performance. His work addresses environmental sustainability through carbon footprint reduction and water use efficiency improvements in cow/calf systems. Specializes in feedlot management practices Focuses on growth performance, carcass traits, and rumen health Explores alternative feed sources and dietary formulations Recent studies highlight trade-offs between nutritional strategies and health outcomes (e.g., liver abscess severity in high-protein diets), emphasizing the need for balanced feed regimes. His extension role bridges academic research with practical applications for South Dakota producers. Key facilities: Animal Science Complex at SDSU (Office: Room 217). Active in livestock industry outreach programs and collaborative research initiatives.
Dr. Diwakar Vyas is an Associate Professor in the Animal Sciences Department at the University of Florida . His research focuses on improving livestock productivity through sustainable practices, with a strong emphasis on ruminant nutrition, rumen microbiology, and methane mitigation strategies. He has extensive expertise in feed formulation, silage management, and the development of natural alternatives to conventional anthelmintics and antimicrobials. Dr. Vyas' work spans multiple disciplines, including animal health , climate-smart agriculture , and global food security . His recent studies investigate the effects of dietary additives (e.g., probiotics, enzymes, and plant extracts) on rumen fermentation dynamics, milk production, and greenhouse gas emissions. He also explores innovative methods to quantify methane emissions in livestock systems and improve forage crop yields in tropical climates. Publications highlight his contributions to understanding the impacts of aflatoxins and mycotoxins on livestock health, as well as strategies to enhance nutrient digestibility and reduce environmental footprints. His research often bridges fundamental biology and applied agricultural practices, with applications for both smallholder farmers and industrial-scale dairy operations. Dr. Vyas is affiliated with the University of Florida's Gainesville campus and collaborates with international organizations to address global challenges in livestock sustainability. Despite no explicit grants or awards listed, his prolific publication record reflects sustained research excellence in his field.
Serkan Ates is an Associate Professor in the Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences at Oregon State University's Main Campus in Corvallis, Oregon. His research centers on sustainable pasture management for improved animal production and product quality, with significant contributions to agrivoltaics integration and alternative forage systems. He teaches courses including Livestock Production on Pastures and Sustainable Crop-Livestock Production Systems while mentoring graduate students in the department. His educational background includes: Ph.D. in Pasture Agronomy from Lincoln University (New Zealand) M.S. in Animal Nutrition from Suleyman Demirel University (Turkey) B.S. in Animal Science from Selcuk University (Turkey) Dr. Ates' research focuses on innovative pasture solutions for sustainable livestock systems. Key interests include evaluating bioactive forbs for livestock health, developing agrivoltaic grazing systems, managing self-regenerating legumes in drylands, utilizing spent hemp biomass in ruminant diets, and optimizing dual-purpose small grain management. His work bridges agricultural productivity with environmental stewardship through practical on-farm applications. Recent publications demonstrate strong trends in renewable energy integration with livestock production, alternative feed development from industrial byproducts, and biodiversity enhancement in pasture systems. His research spans agrivoltaics, hemp utilization, and forage diversity with consistent focus on dryland adaptation and sustainability metrics. His scientific recognition includes: New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarship (2006) Turkish Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock Research Scholarship (2005) Dr. Ates actively mentors graduate students and serves as Associate Editor for Grass and Forage Science and the African Journal of Range and Forage Science . His research is supported by international collaborations and professional affiliations including the American Society of Agronomy, American Society of Animal Science, and American Forage and Grassland Council. He contributes to global knowledge through the International Grassland Congress Continuing Committee (Mediterranean Region) and has developed extension resources on legume interseeding and agrivoltaics productivity.
Duane M Wulf is a Professor in the Department of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at the University of Arizona, where he has served since 2020. He previously held faculty positions at South Dakota State University and The Ohio State University, attaining the rank of Full Professor. His academic work integrates research, teaching, administration, and service with a focus on meat science and sustainable animal production. Ph.D. in Animal Science/Meat Science, Colorado State University M.S. in Animal Science/Meat Science, South Dakota State University B.S. in Animal Science - Business Option, South Dakota State University Dr. Wulf's research centers on improving meat quality and safety without relying on excessive fat deposition. His work addresses sustainability in meat production, early postmortem glycolysis, carcass evaluation, and cultural aspects of meat utilization. He emphasizes applied research with real-world impact, particularly in arid land systems relevant to Arizona. His recent publications and presentations focus on genetic influences (e.g., F94L myostatin mutation), beef × dairy crossbreeding, red meat yield prediction, and carcass value. These works reflect a strong trend toward precision meat science, integrating genetics, carcass metrics, and sensory evaluation to optimize meat quality and yield. Distinguished Teaching Award, American Meat Science Association Distinguished Alumni, SDSU Animal Science Department (2021) Dr. Wulf has mentored numerous graduate students throughout his career and continues to advise research at the University of Arizona. His teaching includes ACBS 210 and ACBS 420, emphasizing foundational biology and lifelong learning. He has secured institutional support through his salary allocation model (50/27.5/12.5/10 Admin/Research/Teaching/Service), indicating sustained research funding from university and taxpayer sources. He leads outreach initiatives such as the Arizona Initiative for Arid Lands Animal Production and has developed educational materials, including a widely viewed YouTube video on on-farm pig harvesting. His work bridges academia, industry, and extension, supporting producers, processors, and students across the meat value chain.
Sarah Adcock is an Assistant Professor of Animal Welfare at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences. Her interdisciplinary research bridges biological, social, and engineering sciences to advance sustainable, socially responsible food production systems. Education: Ph.D. in Animal Behavior, University of California-Davis (2020) M.Sc. in Cognitive and Behavioural Ecology, Memorial University of Newfoundland (2014) B.Sc. in Biology, McGill University (2012) Her research focuses on animal welfare and pain management in livestock, particularly examining how farm practices affect animal behavior, physiology, and productivity . She develops strategies to optimize these outcomes while addressing socio-economic and environmental challenges in local and global food systems. Her work also explores interdisciplinary approaches to sustainable food production. Publication trends reveal expertise in disbudding pain mitigation, wound healing dynamics, predator recognition mechanisms, and socio-ecological impacts of animal husbandry. Key subfields include post-procedural pain assessment, anesthetic efficacy, precision livestock monitoring , and human-animal interaction . Scientific Honors: Alfred Toepfer Faculty Fellow Award (2024-2025) New Investigator Award (2024) Chancellor’s Award for Mentoring Undergraduate Research (2020) Adcock teaches AN SCI 245 Animal Welfare (undergraduate) and AN SCI 875 Research Ethics (graduate). She serves on the Undergraduate Animal & Veterinary Biosciences Committee, Animal and Dairy Sciences Recruitment Committee, and Insect Welfare Research Society Board of Advisors.
Dr. Małgorzata Szewczuk is a Professor at the West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin (ZUT), affiliated with the Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding and working in the Department of Monogastric Animal Sciences. She currently serves as Vice-Dean for Student Affairs and Education for the 2020-2024 term, having previously served as Vice-Dean for Education during 2016-2020. Her academic journey includes: M.Sc. Eng., Agricultural University of Szczecin, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding (1999) PhD, Eng., Agricultural University of Szczecin, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding (2005) DSc, Eng., West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding (2017) University Professor designation (2019) Dr. Szewczuk's research focuses on molecular aspects of animal breeding, particularly genetic polymorphisms related to growth factors and their impact on production traits in livestock. Her work spans multiple species including cattle, sheep, and goats, with significant emphasis on insulin-like growth factors (IGF) and their receptors. She has made notable contributions to understanding how genetic variations affect milk production, meat quality, and animal health parameters. Analysis of her publication record shows consistent research output primarily in veterinary and animal science journals, with a strong focus on molecular genetics applications in livestock improvement. Her work demonstrates expertise in both theoretical aspects of animal genetics and practical applications for improving breeding programs. She is actively involved in the scientific community as a member of: Polish Genetics Society (since 2009) Polish Society of Animal Production named after Michał Oczapowski (since 2002) Dr. Szewczuk has participated in multiple research projects, including international collaborations with institutions in Germany, and has secured funding from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education for studies on genetic polymorphisms affecting livestock production traits.
Prof. Dr. Tamara Ilić is a Professor at the Department of Parasitology within the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Belgrade. She teaches multiple courses including Diagnosis of Parasitic Zoonoses, Diseases of Pigs, Parasitic Diseases of Animals, Parasitic Zoonoses, Diagnostic Procedures in Clinical Parasitology, and Clinical Parasitology. Her research interests focus on veterinary parasitology with special emphasis on zoonotic diseases, clinical parasitology, and parasitic infections in both domestic and wild animals. Her work spans across multiple species including dogs, cats, foxes, jackals, birds, and livestock, with a particular focus on the epidemiology and public health implications of these parasites. Analysis of her recent publications shows a consistent research trajectory in parasitology with particular attention to zoonotic potential, environmental contamination, and wildlife reservoirs of parasites. Her work demonstrates strong application to public health through the One Health approach, connecting veterinary medicine with human health concerns. Much of her research focuses on the epidemiology of parasites in Serbia and the Balkan region, with increasing attention to emerging risks. Prof. Ilić has authored numerous scientific papers in reputable journals, including HELMINTHOLOGIA, ACTA PARASITOLOGICA, and VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY. She has also published two significant books: 'Clinical Parasitology' (2011) and 'Coccidiosis in Poultry' (2003). Her collaborative research network is extensive, frequently working with colleagues from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and other institutions across Serbia and the Balkan region. Her teaching and research activities demonstrate a comprehensive approach to veterinary parasitology, connecting theoretical knowledge with practical applications in animal health, public health, and environmental science. She has contributed significantly to understanding parasite transmission cycles, diagnostic methods, and the epidemiological aspects of parasitic diseases in the Serbian context.
Dr. Lyndi Gilliam is a Professor of Equine Internal Medicine in the Veterinary Clinical Sciences department at Oklahoma State University's College of Veterinary Medicine in Stillwater, Oklahoma. She has held this position since June 2021, having previously served as an Associate Professor in the same department from June 2013 to June 2021. Dr. Gilliam earned her DVM from Oklahoma State University in 2001 and completed her PhD in Veterinary Biomedical Sciences from the same institution in 2012. She maintains board certification in Large Animal Internal Medicine-Equine by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Foundation, a credential she has held since 2006. Dr. Gilliam's research spans several critical areas in equine medicine, with particular focus on pharmacology , toxicology , and internal medicine . Her work investigates drug pharmacokinetics and administration routes in horses, snake envenomation treatment, respiratory diseases, and metabolic disorders. She has made significant contributions to understanding antibiotic therapies, pain management, and novel treatments for snakebite envenomation in veterinary patients. Her research demonstrates strong translational potential, particularly in developing alternative therapies to traditional antivenom for snakebite envenomation. Her scholarly output shows a clear trend toward innovative therapeutic approaches, especially in the area of small molecule inhibitors for snake venom toxins. Recent publications highlight her work on varespladib as a potential rescue therapy for envenomation, pharmacokinetic studies of antibiotics in neonatal foals, and novel treatments for respiratory inflammation in horses. This research addresses critical gaps in equine emergency medicine and pharmacology. Dr. Gilliam actively contributes to the veterinary knowledge base through numerous peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. While specific awards aren't detailed in available information, her extensive publication record and ongoing research activities indicate significant recognition in her field. As a professor, Dr. Gilliam is deeply involved in teaching and mentoring veterinary students. Her research collaborations span multiple institutions, as evidenced by her numerous co-authored publications. She has served as a principal investigator on multiple research projects focusing on equine health issues, particularly those addressing pharmacological approaches to complex medical conditions. Dr. Gilliam's laboratory work focuses on pharmacological studies, toxicology research, and clinical investigations related to equine internal medicine. Her research team likely includes veterinary students, residents, and other researchers interested in equine pharmacology and toxicology, contributing to the next generation of veterinary specialists in these fields.
Eva "Lini" Wollenberg is a Research Professor at the University of Vermont's Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources and the Gund Institute for Environment. She also works with the Alliance of Bioversity and CIAT. With a PhD in Natural Resource Management from UC Berkeley, her research focuses on climate change mitigation, land use governance, and sustainable agriculture in Asia (especially Indonesian Borneo). She has led CCAFS' Low-Emission Development research from 2009–2021 and previously worked with CIFOR and the Ford Foundation. Her expertise bridges climate science and socio-economic dimensions, emphasizing agroecology, digital tools for smallholder farmers, and socially inclusive solutions. Key areas include livestock emissions reduction, soil carbon sequestration, and food systems transformation. She has advised major initiatives like Germany's EUR15M farmer ecosystem payment program and contributed to global policy frameworks like Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Notable projects include developing mitigation strategies for rice cultivation in Vietnam, creating digital tool guidelines for smallholders, and analyzing livestock's role in net-zero systems. Her work integrates policy engagement with grassroots innovation, emphasizing co-creation with farmers and communities. Recent research highlights include evaluating methane-reducing feed additives, assessing soil organic carbon potential in national climate plans, and exploring plant-based protein transitions. She collaborates globally, producing actionable tools like the AgLED Resource Platform and guiding multi-million-dollar investment strategies for climate-smart agriculture.
Rheinallt Jones is a Lecturer in Animal Nutrition (Physiology Ageing & Welfare) at the University of Glasgow. His research focuses on livestock health, epidemiology, and nutritional strategies for ruminants. Key areas include foot-and-mouth disease surveillance, mineral deficiency management in sheep, and feed optimization for cattle. He has contributed to projects such as the 'Seaweed for dairy cows' initiative funded by the Scottish Funding Council (2024–2025) and 'Pin-pointing gastrointestinal maturation' supported by the Hannah Dairy Research Foundation (2024–2026). His work bridges clinical veterinary practices with advanced analytical techniques like proteomics and spatial epidemiology. Recent publications emphasize data-driven approaches to livestock disease control, nutritional biomarkers in bovine systems, and precision diagnostics for ewe colostrum quality. His interdisciplinary methods integrate histology, proteomics, and spatial analysis to address challenges in sustainable animal agriculture.
Valentina Busin is an Honorary Clinical Senior Lecturer at the University of Glasgow's School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine. She holds a veterinary degree from the University of Turin (2007), completed a farm animal residency, and earned a PhD in mechanical engineering (Moredun/Heriot-Watt University) focused on point-of-care diagnostics. As European Veterinary Specialist in Small Ruminant Health Management and president of the European College of Small Ruminant Health Management (ECSRHM), she leads initiatives in veterinary education and disease control. Her professional roles include senior clinician in disease surveillance at the University of Glasgow and senior veterinary consultant for the FAO’s transboundary disease programs. She also serves as Senior Clinical Research Editor for Vet Record . Education: Veterinary Medicine (University of Turin, 2007) Residency in Farm Animal Practice PhD in Mechanical Engineering (Moredun & Heriot-Watt University) Research Interests: Valentina’s work centers on small ruminant health, food security, livestock medicine, and innovative diagnostic tools. Her projects include developing radar-based lameness detection systems, microfluidic devices for pathogen identification, and epidemiological analyses of diseases like foot-and-mouth and sheep scab. She emphasizes One Health approaches to ensure sustainable livestock production and global health security. Grants & Collaborations: Rapid Onsite Tools to Combat Antimicrobial Resistant Mastitis (British Council, 2021–2023) Low-cost water quality sensors (Scottish Universities Life Sciences Alliance, 2019–2020) Sheep scab management strategies (DEFRA, 2019–2022) Advising & Mentorship: Valentina contributes to residency programs through the ECSRHM and collaborates on global FAO initiatives. Her work bridges academic research with practical veterinary applications, focusing on disease surveillance and diagnostic innovation. Labs/Teams: Affiliated with University of Glasgow’s veterinary research groups and collaborates with institutions like Moredun Research Institute and Heriot-Watt University on multidisciplinary projects.
Dr. Kathryn Allan is a clinician and epidemiologist affiliated with the University of Glasgow under the School of Veterinary Medicine . She graduated as a veterinarian from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Edinburgh (2008), and completed an intercalated BSc in Veterinary Pathology at the Royal Veterinary College (2005). Her career spans clinical practice in the UK, research in East Africa, and postdoctoral work on zoonotic diseases. Education : DVM, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Edinburgh (2008) BSc (Intercalated), Royal Veterinary College (2005) PhD, University of Glasgow (2016) Kathryn's research focuses on zoonotic diseases at the human-animal interface, particularly leptospirosis , Q fever , and Rift Valley fever in East Africa. Her work employs multidisciplinary approaches within a One Health framework to reduce disease burdens in marginalized communities. Recent projects include evaluating interventions for livestock abortions in Tanzania and sustainable control measures for cerebral coenurosis. Her publication trends emphasize epidemiological modeling , pathogen detection , and zoonotic risk analysis , with frequent collaborations across veterinary sciences , public health , and virology . She has secured grants from the Wellcome Trust , Hannah Dairy Research Foundation , and the Academy of Medical Sciences to investigate zoonotic diseases in Scotland and Tanzania. Current projects include marine mammal pathology with the Sea-Changers grant, analyzing Coxiella burnetii in dairy cattle, and operationalizing One Health interventions in Tanzania. She collaborates with institutions like the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene and contributes to conservation medicine via strandings data analysis.
