Vitor Mercadante

My research program focuses on bovine reproductive physiology, reproductive bio-technologies, embryonic and fetal development, and beef cattle management. Research interests include:

• Factors affecting fertility of estrus synchronization protocols
• Strategies to improve early embryonic development
• Development of applied reproductive technologies
• Supplementation strategies to improve fertility of beef females
•  Heifer development strategies to maximize fertility

The goal of my extension program is to improve reproductive efficiency of beef cattle production systems. My research and extension program focus on generating research based knowledge to improve current technologies, as well as develop new technologies and strategies that can be readily adopted by cattlemen. We focus on creating educational activities to engage youth, train cattlemen and inform the general public on best practices of beef production by disseminating the findings of our research program.

APSC/DASC 4304 - Bovine Reproduction Practices.

This course is designed as a hands on class that exposes students to principles and techniques in bovine reproductive physiology including frozen semen handling, artificial insemination, transrectal ultrasonography, estrus synchronization, and superovulation. At the end of the class students have the option to attend an artificial insemination course provided by Select Sires Inc. and become a certified A.I. Technician.

APSC 5404 - Reproductive Technology in Cattle.

This 100% online course is part of the Online Master in Agriculture and Life Sciences (OMALS) program. APSC 5404 is designed to help students become familiar with reproductive technologies in both beef and dairy cattle. Formulated in 7 modules, students are exposed to current concepts of reproductive anatomy and physiology, and with each module reproductive technologies and reproductive management in cattle are discussed in detail. At the completion of this course students are able to identify strategies to improve reproductive efficiency in both beef and dairy production systems.

Doctor of Philosophy, Ph.D. - 2015 - Bovine Reproductive Physiology, North Florida Research and Education Center,  University of Florida, Marianna, FL, USA

Master of Science, M.S. -  2012 - Beef Cattle Management, Department of Animal Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, D.V.M. – 2009 - College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science - FMVZ, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil

• 2015 – University of Florida, Department of Animal Sciences, Best Ph.D.             Dissertation Award
• 2013 – International Stockmen's Educational Foundation Fellowship
• 2012 – University of Florida, Department of Animal Sciences. Best M.S.             Thesis Award
• 2009 – São Paulo State University XVII Class of Veterinary Medicine,             Honorable Commencement Speaker