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Dr. Jamie Courter is your Mizzou Beef Genetics Extension Specialist

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By Jared E. Decker Many of you have probably noticed that things have been a lot less active on the A Steak in Genomics™   blog, but you probably haven't known why. In January 2021, I was named the Wurdack Chair in Animal Genomics at Mizzou, and I now focus on research, with a little bit of teaching. I no longer have an extension appointment. But, with exciting news, the blog is about to become a lot more active! Jamie Courter began as the new MU Extension state beef genetics specialist in the Division of Animal Sciences on September 1, 2023. I have known Jamie for several years, meeting her at BIF when she was a Masters student. I have been impressed by Jamie in my interactions with her since that time.  Dr. Courter and I have been working closely together the last 6 weeks, and I am excited to work together to serve the beef industry for years to come! Jamie holds a bachelor’s degree in animal science from North Carolina State University and earned a master's degree in animal...
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Data-Driven Extension Education and Research



As you know, I started in my current position at the University of Missouri Beef Genetics Extension Specialist in March of 2013. Check out the first A Steak in Genomics video to see how I describe my approach to extension education and research. (Excuse the ums and uhs, I was a little more nervous than usual as it was a job interview!)

Have you ever wondered why polls started appearing at the bottom of these blog posts? It is an effort to have a data-driven extension program in which we measure and respond to feedback from you, the Steakholders.

In order for us to really make progress in using genomic technologies and animal breeding best practices in beef production, there needs to be an open and honest conversation about these topics. If you ever are concerned there is an inaccuracy in my writings or presentations, please bring it to my attention as a comment on the blog, in an email, or a phone call. But please bring the data! Don't bring fallacies or antidotes to a data-driven conversation.

In God we trust.
All others bring data.
– W. Edwards Deming

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