Purdue Animal Sciences welcomes Julie Mahoney as clinical assistant professor

a woman presenting to a group of people
While in graduate school, Julie (Feldpausch) engaged in educational outreach events such as Purdue's Junior Pork Day in testament to her passion for animals, people and science. 

The Purdue Department of Animal Sciences proudly welcomes Julie Mahoney, Ph.D., as a clinical assistant professor.  

Mahoney earned her doctoral degree in animal sciences from Purdue University in 2019 under the mentorship of Brian Richert, Ph.D. Her research focused in swine nutrition and physiology as well as student success in agriculture. Prior to receiving her doctoral degree, Mahoney earned her bachelor’s degree in animal science from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in animal science from Kansas State University. 

Mahoney spent the past five years at United Animal Health, where she most recently served as a staff research scientist. She led multi-species research projects, managed interns and staff and shared results from animal nutrition studies with scientists and industry partners. 

a woman laughing and standing next to a man Not only is Mahoney's swine nutrition and physiology research widely published in peer reviewed literature, but her pedagogical research interests have been featured in the Journal of Agricultural Education and showcased here at the 6th Annual Purdue Agriculture Celebration of Teaching Excellence (2019).

In her new position at Purdue, Mahoney will focus on developing and teaching in-person and online animal sciences courses. One of her key responsibilities is to expand the department’s online course offerings to reach a broader audience, which includes high school students, adult learners and industry professionals seeking continuing education opportunities.

a woman and a man shaking hands
Mahoney, recipient of the 2018 W.R. Featherston Outstanding Ph.D. Award, is pictured with Alan Mathew, professor emeritus of animal sciences and former department head. Mahoney is excited to return to her alma mater.

“I’m excited to return to Purdue and share my fascination of animals, science and production systems,” Mahoney said. “As a student, I benefited from faculty who opened my eyes to the possibilities within animal science, and I hope to provide those same kinds of experiences for others.” 

According to Mahoney, she is particularly passionate about helping students build connections within the agricultural industry and guiding them toward professional opportunities that align with their interests. 

“I see my role as both an educator and a connector, linking students with professionals, alumni and subject matter experts who can support their development,” Mahoney said. “I’m also looking forward to helping more undergraduate students get involved in research, as it’s a key part of a well-rounded education and contributes to the continued advancement of the agriculture industry.”

Mahoney will begin her teaching responsibilities in the 2025/2026 academic year, with initial emphasis on courses such as introductory animal science, nutrition and livestock management. 

Outside of her career, Mahoney enjoys spending time with her husband and children, cooking and gardening.

Featured Stories

2026 Consumer Food Safety Education webinar featuring three speakers; July 1, 8, and 15 via Zoom.
Webinar Series – 2026 Summer School for Consumer Food Safety Education

The Food Safety Human Factor Lab within the Department of Food Science at Purdue University is...

Read More
Aya Hussain in greenhouse with lettuce.
Aquaponics project seeks to boost Midwest seafood production

Half a billion years ago, a shallow sea covered an equatorial landmass today known as Indiana and...

Read More
Hobart and Russell Creighton Hall of Animal Sciences
Purdue Animal Sciences honors 2026 graduate student award recipients

The Department of Animal Sciences announced its 2026 graduate student awards.

Read More
audience seated in a barn at the 2024 Purdue Farm Management Tour event next to a large green John Deere planter
Purdue Farm Management Tour comes to Harrison County this July

The 92nd annual Purdue University Farm Management Tour will take place July 10 in Harrison...

Read More
George Emerson take a photo; George Emerson operates a radio telemetry device; George Emerson holds a bird
Meet Outstanding Sophomore George Emerson

George Emerson, a wildlife major, was selected as Purdue Forestry and Natural Resources’...

Read More
brady hardiman leans against a tree in front of a bridge at tapawingo park
Brady Hardiman named 2026 University Faculty Scholar for bringing communities and trees together to grow better cities

Brady Hardiman, associate professor of forestry and natural resources and sustainability...

Read More