Kansas State Hired Feedlot Specialist Rebecca McDermott
The animal science expert joined the university's Department of Animal Sciences and Industry this past fall.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in People
Kansas State University appointed Rebecca McDermott as an assistant professor and Extension feedlot specialist in the fall of 2026. McDermott manages a role balancing Extension work, teaching, and research responsibilities at the university.
Why it matters
This appointment aims to bolster feedlot cattle efficiency throughout Kansas through enhanced nutritional and management strategies. McDermott will work closely with state producers and industry partners to implement new research and provide mentorship to students.
The position consists of a 70% Extension, 20% teaching, and 10% research workload. During her graduate studies, McDermott also coordinated 42 research projects.
The players
Rebecca McDermott
She is an assistant professor and Extension feedlot specialist who previously served as a feedlot research coordinator.
Kansas State University
This public research university in Kansas is home to the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry.
The details
McDermott joined the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry to collaborate with feedlot producers, consultants, and extension agents. She is responsible for planning and implementing research projects while providing guidance to students within the department.
Timeline
McDermott earned her bachelor's degree in animal science in 2019.
She completed her master's degree in animal science in 2022.
McDermott finished her doctoral degree in animal science in 2026.
She officially joined the faculty at Kansas State University in the fall of 2026.
Market Landscape
This appointment follows the long-standing academic tradition of land-grant institutions deploying specialized faculty to assist regional agricultural industries. Her role signals a continued investment in the local cattle sector against broader economic shifts in agribusiness efficiency.
Cattle producers and feedlot operators in Kansas can expect new outreach and collaborative research opportunities from the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry. Local industry partners may see increased data sharing and management support as McDermott initiates her research projects.
The takeaway
The addition of a dedicated feedlot specialist highlights the importance of integrating academic research into practical agricultural operations. Local stakeholders benefit when university expertise translates directly into improved livestock management and efficiency.
Further reading
Learn more about faculty developments at Kansas People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Feedstuffs.
