Department of Animal Science Welcomes Dathan Smerchek

Dathan SmerchekAMES, Iowa – The Iowa State University Department of Animal Science is pleased to announce the appointment of Dathan T. Smerchek as an Assistant Professor of Ruminant Nutrition. Smerchek, who joins the university after completing his Ph.D. at Iowa State University, brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to advancing the beef industry through science-based innovation.

Smerchek’s research and professional focus is centered on improving the sustainability, productivity, and profitability of the beef industry. His passion for solving complex problems and acquiring knowledge has driven his work in enhancing beef cattle production efficiency. 

“As a new faculty member in the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University, I'm most looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge, innovative research and education in a department known for its excellence in the Animal Science field,” said Smerchek. “I'm excited to work with passionate colleagues and students to address some of the pressing challenges in animal agriculture, particularly related to ruminant nutrition and sustainable beef production in Iowa and the United States.”

Smerchek has made significant contributions to the field through his research on the interaction of zinc and manganese with steroidal implants in feedlot cattle. His dissertation work, completed in November 2023, explored how strategic supplementation of these trace minerals can optimize beef cattle growth in conjunction with growth-enhancing technologies. His findings offer valuable insights into refining feeding recommendations for nutritionists and producers, thus addressing key industry challenges.

His educational background includes a Ph.D. in Animal Science with a focus on Ruminant Nutrition from Iowa State University, where he was advised by Stephanie L. Hansen. Prior to his Ph.D., Smerchek earned a Master of Science in Animal Science—Ruminant Nutrition from South Dakota State University, under the guidance of Dr. Zachary K. F. Smith. His master’s thesis explored animal energetics and steroidal implant strategies, contributing to his extensive expertise in the nutritional management of feedlot cattle. 

His roles have included serving as a Graduate Research Assistant at both South Dakota State University and Iowa State University, where he conducted research on beef cattle nutrition and management. He has also gained valuable research experience through internships and work in diverse agricultural settings, including the Miller Animal Science Research Internship. 

In addition to his research and professional accomplishments, Smerchek has demonstrated a strong commitment to education. He has co-lectured for the capstone course Beef Cattle Systems Management at Iowa State and contributed significantly as a graduate teaching assistant. His involvement in teaching and mentoring underscores his dedication to advancing the next generation of animal scientists.

Smerchek’s work has been recognized through several awards and scholarships, including the John Airy Endowed Graduate Student Scholarship and the Print and Grace Powers Hudson Scholarship in Agriculture. His research has been published in leading journals such as the Journal of Animal Science and Animals, and he has presented his findings at numerous regional and national conferences.

“I hope to provide value to the Department of Animal Science by contributing to the culture of collaborative, interdisciplinary research that will foster a sustainable future for the Iowa and U.S. Beef Industry,” Smerchek said. “I also hope to be an asset to the department and university through my teaching efforts where I will have the opportunity to work with students that represent the next generation of animal scientists who will be responsible for shaping the future of agriculture.”

The Iowa State University Department of Animal Science is excited to welcome Smerchek and anticipates his contributions will significantly enhance the department's research and educational endeavors. His expertise aligns perfectly with the department's mission to foster innovation and improve livestock management practices.