Blaine Johnson’s community-driven approach and commitment to veterinary medicine will make an impact on students and the profession.
Blaine Johnson's fascination with animal health started as a child when he encountered his local veterinarian on his family's farm.
As time went on, he realized just how instrumental veterinarians are to farmers and ranchers within an agricultural community. This motivated him to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, which led him to join the Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine in Amarillo as an assistant professor of food animal medicine and surgery.
“I am excited to join the School of Veterinary Medicine because they are offering a different framework and foundation of veterinary education that I will get to play a role in developing, as well as joining a very aggressive and passionate team of veterinarians and scientists,” Johnson said. “Secondly, I am really excited about the abundance of resources in the surrounding communities.
“I am very passionate about animal agriculture, particularly feedlot production, and I am looking forward to working with veterinarians and producers.”
Johnson's focus is to educate veterinary students on the scientific principles and practical herd management by showing them different components within food safety, nutrition, disease control and many others in food animal production (such as cattle, swine, small ruminants, and poultry).
He also will teach students the foundational knowledge needed for diagnosing and treating the most common diseases and surgical conditions specifically in food animal production.
“Blaine deeply understands our mission,” said Guy Loneragan, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine. “We are so fortunate to have someone of Blaine's talents and passion. He will benefit our students in many ways, and his research will add so much to the vibrant cattle industry we know so well here in the Panhandle. I look forward to working with Blaine.”
Johnson graduated with his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in Ames, Iowa in 2016. Soon after, he practiced as a mixed animal veterinarian for three years.
During that time, Johnson realized his growing interest in data and statistics could solve some of the most complex questions that farmers and ranchers have in rural communities.
Prior to joining Texas Tech, his focus shifted, leading him to pursue a doctorate in pathobiology with a focus in epidemiology at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine in Manhattan, Kansas in 2022.
“Dr. Blaine Johnson is a great addition to our school,” said John Dascanio, senior associate dean for academic and student affairs. “His background in beef cattle brings an extra element to both our instructional and research programs. Dr. Johnson's work in epidemiology and large data sets will translate well to working with our One Health PhD students. He will be a great team member, and I look forward to working with him.”
