Through the agreement, students in the poultry science program will conduct experiments in feed mill enzyme processing stability and live broiler chicken growth, digestibility at the new, state-of-the-art Charles C. Miller Jr. Poultry Research and Education Center. The research is further enhanced by an $80,000 grant from ADM Cares to support the Starkey’s multi-species research and teaching program, and student stipends.

“Working with ADM will not only help accelerate our research, but it will directly benefit our students through diverse, hands-on educational experiences in our lab and through internship and networking opportunities,” said Dr. Charles Starkey, assistant professor of poultry science. “We see this as the beginning of a productive collaboration, and look forward to working closely with some of the best enzyme scientists in the world at ADM.”

Students in the Starkeys’ research lab on Auburn’s campus will work with ADM’s other R&D facilities around the globe to help develop poultry enzyme products, improving animal health and nutrition. Enzymes in poultry diets can increase the efficiency of digestion, allow feed producers greater flexibility in the types of raw materials that can be used in feed formulation, and help improve overall sustainability and environmental stewardship.

“We’re excited about our partnership with Auburn University’s Department of Poultry Science and proud to support their mission to develop future innovators in the field of animal nutrition,” said ADM Chief Science Officer Todd Werpy. “We’re proud to partner with the Starkeys, accomplished researchers, who will be working alongside our own research and development team to create cutting-edge solutions in animal nutrition.”