K-State ASI Department Welcomes Deters as the Companion Animal Management Instructor

MANHATTAN, Kan. – The Kansas State University Department of Animal Sciences and Industry is pleased to announce the hiring of Dr. Alyssa Deters., as the new companion animal management instructor.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Alyssa Deters back to the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry as our new Companion Animal Instructor,” said Teresa Douthit, K-State ASI interim department head. “Dr. Deters began her journey here as a student, gaining hands-on experience in a pet food laboratory. She went on to earn her Ph.D. before completing a postdoctoral appointment at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility. We are excited for the energy, expertise and passion she will share with our students.”

During her time at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, Deters served as an ORISE postdoctoral fellow in the Biologics Development Module where she designed independent research projects in virology and vaccine development. She has previously conducted research in the Pre-Harvest Food Safety Laboratory in the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine, where she focused research on improving cattle health through nutrition. She also assisted with the USDA National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) program.

In addition to her research background, Deters has published multiple peer-reviewed scientific articles and presented her work in both local and national levels. She has teaching experience as a graduate teaching assistant for K-State’s Veterinary Bacteriology and Mycology course and has supervised undergraduate researchers. Outside of academics, she works as a scientific blog writer for Circadia Marketing and has several years of experience as a horse trainer and instructor.

Deters began her academic career at Kansas State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, majoring in animal sciences and industry, as well as an equine science certificate. She then completed a graduate certificate in genetics, genomics and biotechnology before earning her Ph.D. in pathobiology from the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine. Her dissertation focus was, “Re-evaluation of the Etiology and Pathogenesis of Liver Abscesses in Feedlot Cattle: Potential Involvement of Fusobacterium varium and Bacteriophages as an Intervention Tool”

The department is excited to welcome back an alumna to help shape the next generation of students. Dr. Deters’ appointment began Dec. 8. She can be found in Call Hall 220 for those who would like to meet her.