Texas Tech University’s School of Veterinary Medicine is tackling the nationwide shortage of food animal veterinarians with the creation of the school’s first food animal residency program designed to strengthen veterinary services in rural and agricultural communities.
Jennifer Koziol, associate professor of food animal medicine and surgery, is leading the groundbreaking initiative made possible by a $250,000 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Veterinary Service Grant.
“The lack of veterinary coverage in rural regions has far-reaching consequences, from diminished livestock health and welfare to threats against food security and community economic viability,” Koziol said. “The USDA project aligns with national strategic goals of supporting rural prosperity and ensuring a safe, nutritious food supply.”
The residency, which is planned to launch in 2026, will recruit early-career veterinarians and provide them with advanced clinical and research training to help them become future educators in food animal medicine. By mentoring veterinarians into teaching roles, the program aims to meet a critical need for more qualified food animal faculty at veterinary schools as institutions struggle to recruit and retain specialists.
Educators trained through the residency will work to influence more students to pursue careers in food animal, large animal or mixed animal practice, helping alleviate the shortage of practitioners in underserved rural and regional communities.
“This residency program is transformative for our school and the cattle industry,” said Guy Loneragan, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine. “A capstone professional achievement for the residents in this program is attainment of diplomate status in the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. This is a national recognition as an elite specialist in all things cattle. The residents will provide leadership to advance livestock health and protect the national interest in U.S. food production. The program led by Dr. Koziol tremendously benefits the school, Texas Tech, our state and nation.”
Graduates of the residency will serve as vital resources in their communities, bringing expertise in antimicrobial stewardship, disease control and One Health leadership. By building a sustainable network of food animal veterinarians, Texas Tech’s program seeks to retain professionals in the field and also safeguard the future of America’s agricultural industries.
