I was born in the small town of Campo Ere (meaning “fields” in the indigenous language) in rural Brazil, into a family with deep-rooted ties to food production, particularly in the hospitality and meat industry. However, my passion for companion animals guided me towards a career in Veterinary Medicine. Along the way, I found my true calling in the field of dairy cattle, realizing that my mission is to enhance the well-being of farm animals and champion sustainable farming practices.
To pursue this mission, I received additional professional training in animal behavior and welfare, which granted me the privilege of collaborating with producers and institutions worldwide. This journey led me to California in 2012, where I joined the Center for Animal Welfare at the University of California, Davis, and began researching heat stress in dairy cattle. Specifically, my work addressed how to identify dairy cattle experiencing high heat load (before a drop in milk production and reproduction) and how to optimize cow cooling considering more sustainable, less water-demanding strategies. After completing my PhD, I assumed a position as an Assistant Professor at California State University, Chico, a teaching-focused institution from 2018 to 2023.
At OSU, my research offers considerable opportunities to improve dairy cattle welfare, production, and farm sustainability. It also provides opportunities for collaboration with researchers across campus and beyond. I am particularly interested in examining how Ohio's dairy industry addresses challenges posed by adverse weather conditions and in developing strategies to mitigate potential risks in the future, and identifying the barriers to implementing better animal welfare practices. Additionally, I am committed to raising awareness and knowledge about food animal welfare among students and dairy industry allies, by equipping them to address challenges in responsible food production. My goal is to inspire positive change in the dairy industry to benefit both animals and those who rely on them for sustenance.
I have moved to Columbus in late December with my spouse, Joao, and our two senior mutts – Dove Solange and Spike. As a southern Brazilian and granddaughter of a butcher, I enjoy barbecuing year-round and exploring nature, traveling, cross-stitching and photographing animals.
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