Ensuring greater human and animal health

Our scientists are tackling some of the leading challenges in animal nutrition, food safety, production systems, technology and more. Research in the Department of Animal Sciences is in collaboration with the College of Agriculture and Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station.

Group of cattle
Our research areas

row2

Scientists in our department conduct research in the following areas:

Animal and forage production systems and nutrition

  • Dr. Leanne Dillard: forages
  • Dr. Paul Dyce: reproductive biology
  • Dr. Maggie Justice: beef systems, management
  • Dr. Kim Mullenix: beef systems
  • Dr. Rishi Prasad: livestock production, nutrition
  • Dr. Soren Rodning: herd health
  • Dr. Marko Rudar: swine nutrition, metabolism, biology
  • Dr. Brandon Smith: ruminant nutrition

Muscle food science, technology and safety

  • Dr. Aeriel Belk: food science, production environment, animal host
  • Dr. Jason Sawyer: production, packaging, food science

Regulatory biology

  • Dr. Priyanka Banerjee: biochemistry, biotechnology
  • Dr. Terry Brandebourg: genetics
  • Dr. Wellison Diniz: genomics and bioinformatics
  • Dr. Jacek Wower: biochemistry
Animal sciences research stories
"I just love my job"

Dillard is the recipient of the 2025 Auburn University Award for Excellence in Faculty Outreach. Presented by the Provost’s Office, the award honors the engagement of exemplary faculty members and demonstrates the tremendous impact outreach has on the community, state, nation and beyond.

Cows in a field with CERES TAG tech in their ears
Animal Sciences partners with global leader in animal health intelligence

The Department of Animal Sciences in the College of Agriculture recently announced a partnership with CERES TAG, a leading global animal health intelligence platform to improve livestock monitoring and grazing practices.

two Auburn students groom a horse in the Williams Family Barn
Working with high-performance athletes

College of Agriculture students gain hands-on experience interning at the Auburn University Equestrian Center.