Following a national search, Washington State University department of Animal Sciences is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Kimberly Davenport as an assistant Professor in our Functional Genomics team. Dr. Davenport earned her Ph.D. from the University of Idaho, under the mentorship of Dr. B. Murdoch. Her thesis research focused on genome assembly and the functional annotation of genetic regulatory elements in the sheep genome. Subsequently, she proceeded to a USDA NIFA postdoctoral fellowship to study genetic and epigenetic mechanisms governing placental development in cattle at the University of Missouri under the mentorship of Dr. T. Spencer. Dr. Davenport’s research at WSU will focus on the relationship of genetics and epigenetics with economically important traits in agricultural species, with a particular interest in fertility traits of cattle. Her overarching goal is to identify genetic and epigenetic mechanisms governing important traits in livestock and translate this work to equip producers with beneficial new technology and tools to improve sustainability and profitability of their operations.
Dr. Davenport states; “I am excited to join the faculty at Washington State University in the Department of Animal Sciences as part of the Functional Genomics Initiative, and look forward to serving the needs of Washington agriculture. Go Cougs!”, and the department could not be more excited to welcome this exceptional faculty member to our team! Dr. Davenport’s official appointment commences this August.