September 18, 2023
Pezzali to lead K-State's pet food science program
Bringing a wealth of experience in companion animal food technology and nutrition, Julia Pezzali will become the new assistant professor of pet food science in Kansas State University's grain science and industry department starting in November.
"Dr. Pezzali has a strong background and experience in animal handling, animal science and nutrition, pet food processing and formulation of pet products," said Hulya Dogan, interim head of the grain science and industry department and interim director of the IGP Institute. "Her training, experience and skills, along with her passion for research and teaching, enthusiasm and determination to succeed, make Dr. Pezzali a great addition to the grain science family. There is no doubt she will have an immediate impact on the program."
Pezzali's bachelor's degree is in veterinary medicine. During her master's in grain science at K-State, she focused on processing and use of alternative carbohydrate sources in pet foods and treats.
Pezzali completed her doctoral work in animal biosciences at the University of Guelph, Canada, where she developed an indicator amino acid oxidation technique for determining the minimum methionine requirement in domestic cats.
"I want to welcome Dr. Pezzali back to the College of Agriculture and the department of grain science and industry," said Ernie Minton, Eldon Gideon Dean, College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension. "The pet food industry looks to our program for talented students to add to the workforce and to help develop and diversify products for the industry's economic impact and output."
"We believe Dr. Pezzali will be key in developing both of those areas and coincides nicely with our Agriculture Innovation Initiative, which is focused on building new infrastructure that will lead to next-generation research and closer industry partnerships," Minton added.
Pezzali is currently an assistant professor in the department of animal science at Iowa State University, where she focuses on companion animal nutrition and pet food processing. She will begin her new role at K-State in November.