By Jamie Martin
Veterinary entomology is an important field that focuses on insects and ticks that affect animal health. These pests can spread diseases, reduce livestock performance, and create major economic losses for farmers.
However, there is a serious shortage of trained experts in this area across the United States. Many students are unaware that veterinary entomology is a valuable career path with opportunities to protect animals and support agriculture.
A new student initiative has been created to address this challenge. The Research and Extension Experience in Veterinary Entomology for Students, also known as the REEVES program, is designed to give undergraduate students hands-on experience in this field. The goal is to introduce young scholars to animal insect science and encourage them to pursue advanced studies or livestock-related careers.
The program is supported by USDA-NIFA and led by the University of Tennessee. It places two students each year at four major institutions: Kansas State University, the University of Tennessee, Texas A&M University, and the University of Georgia. The program will run from 2025 to 2028 and offers an eight-week summer residential experience.
During the program, students take part in real research and extension projects. They learn how to collect insect samples, conduct field observations, and understand how pests affect livestock. They also gain skills in scientific teamwork and communication. Students present their findings at the Livestock Insect Workers Conference and an online REEVES Expo.
Recent student projects have included studying stable flies in cattle feedlots and investigating outbreaks of tick-borne diseases. These projects help support farmers while giving students practical experience in solving real-world problems.
Leaders in the field explain that this work is essential as new pests emerge and insecticide resistance grows. By training more students, the program strengthens future research, teaching, and extension efforts across the livestock industry.
The program also inspires students by showing how they can improve both animal health and the well-being of people who depend on livestock. More information and application details can be found on the REEVES program website.
Photo Credit:istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Kansas, Education, Livestock, Beef Cattle