My research team and I focus on the digestive physiology of beef cattle, aiming to develop strategies that improve the use of by-products, forages and grains in ruminant diets. We work to enhance production efficiency while promoting sustainability, using a range of models—from in vivo to in vitro—to evaluate feeding technologies both before and after animal consumption. Beef and milk are vital sources of nutrition, and my research ensures these products are produced efficiently, responsibly and with resilience.
Agriculture benefits when research translates into practical tools and evidence-based strategies. Some applied research leads directly to innovations that improve productivity, such as enhancing animal efficiency or optimizing production.
My approach integrates teaching, research, and outreach, giving students opportunities to engage in projects where they can apply classroom knowledge, build skills, and experience the satisfaction of contributing to agriculture. I was inspired to pursue this field by academic mentors who encouraged me to seek solutions grounded in scientific evidence.
Their guidance gave me purpose, and today I remain motivated by my students, colleagues and industry collaborators. Agriculture benefits when research translates into practical tools and evidence-based strategies. Some applied research leads directly to innovations that improve productivity, such as enhancing animal efficiency or optimizing production.
Other fundamental studies strengthen the resilience of production systems by providing scientific evidence on digestion rates and nutrient utilization under diverse conditions cattle experience throughout life. My goal is for students and producers to feel equipped with the right tools and confidence to address major challenges. Working with large animals presents unique challenges, including high costs, labor and facility management.
Our Ruminant Nutrition Lab and Research Center operates without endowment support or permanent technicians, relying instead on graduate and undergraduate students, research volunteers, and visiting scholars. While this model can be less efficient at times, it builds resilience, as team members gain experience in every aspect of running research facilities, making them versatile and well-prepared for future challenges.
To support students, I established a foundation account for donors to contribute directly to their professional development. Moving forward, we are exploring alternative crops with lower water footprints, evaluating water quality, examining direct-fed microbials, and developing strategies to improve mineral availability and nutrient efficiency. Ultimately, I hope this work empowers producers, students, and communities to strengthen agriculture, drive economic growth, and improve quality of life while advancing science and the next generation of agricultural professionals.
CONTACT: Jhones Sarturi, Associate Professor, Department of Animal & Food Sciences, Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, Texas Tech University at (806) 834-4926 or j.sarturi@ttu.edu
0218NM26 | Editor’s Note: Interested in learning more about Jhones Sarturi’s research? Listen to the episode on the Deep Roots Podcast, available on the Deep Roots website, Spotify, Apple, and YouTube.