Home | School of Animal Sciences

Dedicated to the Virginia Tech motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), the School of Animal Sciences pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. We invite you to bring your interest in animals and let us prepare you for your future. Where can the School of Animal Sciences take you? The choices are unlimited!

Academics

Design your experience

Learn how the School of Animal Sciences can help you create the path for your successful academic journey.

Graduate in cap and tassel blowing glitter from her hands. — Learn how the School of Animal Sciences can help you create the path for a successful academic journey based on your interests.

Discovery awaits

Researchers in the lab with test tubes, beakers and equipment. — Work with world-class researchers to identify solutions to the pressing issues of today—and help created a better tomorrow.

Core Areas

Breeding, Genomics, Modeling, and Data

Growth and Development

Immunology and Health
Neurophysiology and Behavior
Nutritional Biochemistry/Metabolism

Reproductive Physiology

Research Facilities
Recent Publications

Our Graduate Studies Program
Graduate Student Directory

Extension

Community Outreach

Students with laptops and large digital display board working on data analysis problems. — Bringing timely, useful, and applicable information to the state—and world-at-large—based on the latest research.

Beef
Companion Animals
Dairy
Equine
Poultry
Sheep
Swine

4-H Horse Program
Virginia 4-H Dairy Youth Program
Youth Livestock Program

Sales

Campus Facilities

AREC Units
Virginia Cooperative Extension

The Latest

Article Item

James Knight honored with emeritus status , article
A member of the Virginia Tech community for more than 49 years, Knight made significant research contributions to reproductive biology in pigs and in fertilization and embryo growth and development
Article Item

School of Animal Sciences Faculty Spotlight: Azahar Ali , article
Recognized with the 2025 Virginia Tech By-Example Award, Azahar Ali pioneers innovations at the intersection of agriculture, biology, and engineering — advancing 3D-printed biosensors and apps with transformative potential for health, agriculture, and the environment.
Article Item

In memoriam: Robert 'Bob' James, professor emeritus of dairy science , article
An internationally recognized authority on calf health and nutrition, James spent more than 36 years at Virginia Tech advancing dairy science through teaching, research, and Extension.
Article Item

Researchers support pilot project to help protect the Chesapeake Bay , article
Partnering with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and the Virginia State Dairymen's Association, researchers are helping develop a $20 million program designed to create incentives for landowners to measurably reduce nutrient runoff.