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

Blaine Wagner poses with laboratory equipment
Driven by curiosity: Blaine's journey in biochemistry

For Blaine Wagner, growing up in Greensburg, Indiana, meant being surrounded by agriculture. He...

Read More
Purdue Top Farmer Conference 2025
2026 Top Farmer Conference explores global competitiveness, tariffs, long-run market outlooks

Registration is now open for Purdue University’s annual Top Farmer Conference, one of the...

Read More
Mongolian Energy Giving Site
From bird song to bulldozers, sound affects our wellbeing

It’s 2 a.m. and you’re woken by a motorcycle revving its engine outside your house....

Read More
Laura Esman
Behind the Research: Laura Esman

Many people are involved in the remarkable range of programs, services and facilities that...

Read More
A woman wearing a black Purdue Animal Sciences shirt stands inside a dairy barn and smiles at the camera. Behind her, several Holstein cows eat at a feed bunk, and warm overhead lights illuminate the barn.
Supporting a dairy industry pipeline from youth to producers

Jackie Boerman advances dairy teaching and outreach, guiding future leaders and supporting...

Read More
Food Science booth FAO
Purdue food science showcases innovation on global stage at FAO exhibition

Two representatives from the Department of Food Science recently traveled to Rome, the...

Read More