AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – Texas Tech University’s School of Veterinary Medicine announced it will launch its first food animal residency program with the support of a $250,000 USDA Veterinary Service Grant, aimed at addressing a shortage of veterinarians serving rural and agricultural communities.
According to TTU officials, the program will train and mentor early-career veterinarians to grow into future educators and leaders in food animal medicine, “strengthening veterinary capacity, rural prosperity and long-term agricultural resilience. ”
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The initiative is set to be led by Jennifer Kozoil, associate professor of food animal medicine and surgery. The residency will launch in 2026, according to TTU, and recruit early-career veterinarians and provide them with advanced clinical and research training. Officials noted the program will aim to meet a critical need for more qualified food animal faculty at veterinary schools as institutions struggle to recruit and retain specialists.
“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.”…