Faculty Spotlight: Elizabeth Karcher
Elizabeth Karcher, PhD, is a faculty member in the Purdue Animal Sciences Department. She also received her master’s degree from the department.
Karcher received her bachelor’s degree in animal biosciences from Penn State University. She completed her master’s degree in animal sciences at Purdue and her doctoral degree in immunology and animal nutrition from Iowa State University.
Karcher joined the department in 2016, and she is now a Professor of Animal Sciences.
“As a professor, I teach courses in the department and conduct research projects in the area of teaching and learning on how to increase student interest in food animal production,” Karcher explained. “My research program also focuses on strategies to develop student intercultural competencies through domestic and international experiences.”
Karcher is also the department’s Undergraduate Program Coordinator.
“As the Undergraduate Program Coordinator, I have the opportunity to lead our undergraduate program within the department,” Karcher said. “In this role, I led a curricular review of our undergraduate program that resulted in a revised curriculum that offers more experiential learning for our students.”
As a professor, Karcher teaches animal sciences courses: Introduction to Animal Agriculture (ANSC 10200) and Cracking the Poultry Industry (ANSC 49500). She has also taught Dairy Farm Evaluation (ANSC 48500) and Dairy Management (ANSC 44400). Additionally, she co-leads the Animalia Learning Community for first-year Animal Sciences students, and she leads a study abroad program focused on food security and environmental challenges in Vietnam. In the past, she co-led a study abroad program to Italy focused on animal production.
According to Karcher, she chose her current role in the department because she enjoys playing a part in undergraduate education.
“I chose my current role because it allows me to work more with students and be a part of discussions surrounding undergraduate education,” Karcher said. “My research program also allows me to better understand how students learn, which has an impact on the classroom experience and student motivation to pursue careers in animal agriculture.”
Karcher mentioned she likes working with students.
“One of the best parts of my job is working with our students. I strive to create learning opportunities both in and out of the classroom that challenge students to try new things,” Karcher explained. “I really enjoy traveling with students and exploring the world together!”
Karcher’s passion for her career has earned her numerous awards and accolades. For example, she received the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Teaching Award of Excellence at its annual conference this past June. She was also voted president-elect of NACTA, among many other accomplishments.
Karcher mentioned her advice for students is to try new things.
“Some of the most impactful experiences happen when you are out of your comfort zone," Karcher explained. “Purdue offers endless opportunities to explore your interests, so take advantage of these while you are a student. You never know what might spark your curiosity.”
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