The Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University is pleased to welcome Dalton Humphrey to its faculty as a Research Assistant Professor in Swine Nutrition and Production. With extensive expertise in swine nutrition research, extension activities, and industry collaboration, Humphrey brings valuable experience to the department’s renowned swine nutrition program.
“As a new faculty member, I am looking forward to building a research program that advances our understanding of swine nutrition and production to improve efficiency and productivity,” said Humphrey.
Humphrey joins the university after recently completing his Ph.D in Animal Science at Iowa State University, where his research focused on modeling amino acid requirements and nutrient utilization in swine, specifically in lactating sows, nursery pigs, and grow-to-finish swine. His dissertation work, completed in 2024, has contributed to advancements in feeding strategies that enhance production efficiency and sustainability for both nutritionists and producers industry-wide.
In addition to his research, Humphrey has been actively engaged in industry outreach and collaborating with key stakeholders to translate scientific findings into practical applications. His contributions include the development of decision-support tools, such as a nursery pig branched-chain amino acid calculator, which aids nutritionists in optimizing growth and feed efficiency. Humphrey has also been an invited speaker at industry conferences and has contributed to widely recognized publications within swine nutrition.
“My work will focus on utilizing applied and basic research techniques for developing and refining strategies for optimizing nutrient utilization, requirements, and supply in swine,” Humphrey states, “In doing so, I hope to support industry stakeholders in advancing sustainable pork production.”.
With a diverse educational background, Humphrey brings exceptional knowledge to the university. Humphrey received both his Ph.D. in Animal Science with specialization in swine nutrition and production, and his Master of Science in Animal Science from Iowa State University, advised by Dr. Laura Greiner. His master’s thesis researched the impacts of nutrition on excretion and gas emissions of grow-to-finish pigs - an important current issue within the industry.
In addition to his education and research, Humphrey prioritizes education as well. While serving as a graduate teaching assistant and as the instructor of record for Animal Science 3200, Animal Feeds and Feeding. Humphrey learned firsthand how he can contribute to his students’ futures in the industry. Focusing on providing his students with the necessary tools to excel both academically and professionally, Humphrey is dedicated to strengthening the next generations of animal scientists.
Humphrey’s outstanding work in both his research and instruction has been recognized widely through awards and honors such as the Iowa State University Graduate College Research Excellence Award and the Iowa State University Department of Animal Science Graduate Award for Outstanding Teaching. His research has been featured in publications including National Hog Farmer, and he has presented at both the national and international levels to share his findings with scientists and producers around the world.
“I’m excited to collaborate with colleagues, students, and industry partners to develop innovative approaches to support the continual sustainability of the industry. With Iowa State’s strong research infrastructure and commitment to excellence, I look forward to contributing to both scientific discovery and practical applications that benefit swine producers in Iowa and beyond,” said Humphrey.
The Iowa State University Department of Animal Science is happy to welcome Humphrey to the team as his dedication to advancing the future of animal science aligns with the department’s mission to foster innovation and improve livestock management practices.