Kansas State Appointed New Extension Feedlot Specialist
Feedlot operators can now coordinate with Rebecca McDermott on nutritional and management efficiency strategies.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in People
In the fall 2026 semester, Kansas State University hired Rebecca McDermott as an assistant professor and Extension feedlot specialist. This role focuses on helping producers improve cattle efficiency through research and industry collaboration.
Why it matters
The appointment provides feedlot operators with a new resource for implementing nutritional strategies and management practices aimed at improving operational output. McDermott bridges academic research with field-level application to address efficiency challenges in the cattle industry.
McDermott holds a 70% Extension appointment, which prioritizes direct work with feedlot producers over traditional campus research. She previously coordinated 42 research projects during her graduate studies at the University of Nebraska.
The players
Rebecca McDermott
Assistant professor and Extension feedlot specialist at Kansas State University.
Kansas State University
A public land-grant university with an extensive agricultural research and extension division serving Kansas producers.
The details
McDermott manages a split portfolio that balances field outreach with academic responsibilities. She works directly with feedlot producers, consultants, and industry partners to implement data-driven management strategies. Her role involves planning research trials, mentoring students, and translating findings into practical feedlot protocols.
Timeline
2019: McDermott earned a bachelor's degree in animal science.
2022: McDermott earned a master's degree in animal science.
2026: McDermott earned a doctoral degree in animal science.
Fall 2026 semester: McDermott joined Kansas State University.
Market Landscape
The appointment sits within the established structure of the Kansas State University Department of Animal Sciences and Industry extension network. It continues the trend of integrating academic feedlot research with commercial production to drive efficiency gains for livestock operators.
Feedlot owners should note this addition as a new point of contact for consulting on nutritional or cattle management research. Operators can leverage this connection to access data-driven efficiency strategies or request specific research into their current production hurdles.
The takeaway
The addition of a dedicated feedlot specialist provides a direct channel to university research for regional cattle operations. Operators should consider reaching out to McDermott to discuss ongoing management efficiency projects or potential collaborative research trials.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership and academic transitions, see People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Feedstuffs.
