Edgar Aviles-Rosa has been named an assistant professor of animal behavior and welfare within Texas Tech University's Department of Animal & Food Sciences, according to officials within the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources. He officially stepped into his new teaching and research post on Sept. 1.

“I intend to create an inclusive and diverse welfare program in companion and farm animals,” Aviles-Rosa said. “My goal is to collaborate with community shelters, trainers, and veterinarians to conduct research that can improve the welfare of companion animals and improve the relationship between owners and their pets.”

In his new position, Aviles-Rosa will be an integral part of one of the strategic areas for the growth of teaching and research within the department. He'll provide leadership in animal behavior and welfare with a focus on companion animal and other diverse species under university's ‘One Health' and ‘One Welfare' framework.

Prior to joining the Texas Tech faculty, Aviles-Rosa served as a postdoctoral research associate within the in Texas Tech's Canine Olfaction Research & Education Laboratory, where he conducted research in detection dog training and performance for the past three years. Earlier he worked as an instructor and teaching assistant with Tech's Department of Animal & Food Sciences.

He received his bachelor's and master's degrees in animal science from the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez. His doctorate in animal science is from Texas Tech. In addition, he is certified as a professional dog trainer by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainer. Aviles-Rosa is a member of the Animal Behavior Society.

The fast-growing Department of Animal & Food Sciences is housed in a modern research and teaching facility with more than 30 faculty members, many of whom are leading researchers in their respective fields. Areas of research emphasis include meat science and muscle biology, food science and safety, animal nutrition, health, welfare, and companion animal science.

CONTACT: Clint Krehbiel, Dean, Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2808 or Clint.Krehbiel@ttu.edu

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