Tribute Wall

Awarded: 2015

• College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
• Research

Mark Westhusin is a professor in the Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology, joining the faculty of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences in 1992. He earned his Ph.D. from Texas A&M University. His research program has successfully cloned bulls, goats, the world's first cat and first white-tailed deer. As a result of his and his colleagues’ efforts, Texas A&M is now recognized as having cloned more different animal species than any other institution in the world (6 species - cow, goat, pig, horse, cat, white-tailed deer). The goal of all this once futuristic and now mainstream activity is to produce genetic copies of world-class animals and genetically engineer livestock with improved production characteristics, such as increased muscle development and resistance to disease. Dr. Westhusin has received numerous honors, including the National Institutes of Health Director’s Award, the American Society of Animal Sciences Scholarship Award, Pfizer Research Award, and Richard H. Davis Teaching Award. He was picked as one of Texas Monthly’s “35 People who Will Shape Our Future.” He has authored more than 75 scientific publications in prestigious journals, given more than 60 invited talks through the world, and contributed to several books. Here are a few comments from his supporters. “Mark has been at the forefront of developing and applying reproductive technologies to real world problems.” “Dr. Westhusin has an excellent and balanced record with strengths in multiple areas including research publications and extramural funding, excellent teaching skills in both the classroom setting and individual mentoring, and a high level of collegiality as supported by his multiple collaborative projects.” “Dr. Westhusin has clearly changed the world with his research and will continue to do so for a very long time.”