Michael Persia Appointed New Director of the Egg Industry Center
A former faculty member of Iowa State University is set to return to Ames as the next director of the Egg Industry Center (EIC). Michael Persia, currently the John W. Hancock Professor at Virginia Tech’s School of Animal Sciences, will begin his new role on June 1, 2026.
Before transitioning to Virginia Tech in 2013, Persia served as an assistant professor of animal science at Iowa State University for four years. His extensive experience also includes roles at Syngenta Animal Nutrition, and he earned his academic degrees from notable institutions, including The Pennsylvania State University, The Ohio State University, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Since February 2024, Brett Ramirez, an associate professor in agricultural and biosystems engineering, has been acting as the interim director of the EIC following the passing of the former director, Richard Gates.
Welcoming Back Dr. Persia
Daniel J. Robison, holder of the Endowed Dean’s Chair in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, expressed enthusiasm over Persia’s return, stating, “His expertise in poultry nutrition and management, along with extensive research experience, will be critical to the EIC’s mission. We’re also thankful to Dr. Ramirez for his exceptional leadership during this interim period.”
Persia’s research at Virginia Tech has focused on optimizing chicken and turkey production efficiencies through enhanced nutrient management and better understanding of their digestive processes. Noteworthy achievements include the introduction of a new phytase feed ingredient and efforts to update poultry nutrient requirements while decreasing antibiotic usage in poultry feed. His research contributions were acknowledged in 2022 when he received the Poultry Nutrition Research Award from the American Feed Industry Association.
Moreover, Persia is actively involved in several respected organizations including the Poultry Science Association, Southern Poultry Science Society, and the World Poultry Science Society.
A Vision for the Future
“I am thrilled to embrace this opportunity to advance research that supports the efficient production of safe and high-quality eggs,” Persia remarked. “Collaborating with both former and new colleagues at Iowa State University and the broader egg industry is a priority as we enhance the goals of the Egg Industry Center.”
Jason Ross, chair of the Department of Animal Science and head of the EIC director search committee, emphasized the significance of Persia’s leadership, stating, “His connections and experience within the U.S. poultry industry will be invaluable as he leads the Egg Industry Center.”
Jeffry L. Henning, current chair of the EIC Board, praised the selection process, remarking, “We commend the team for their rigorous efforts in selecting Dr. Persia, whose vision for EIC will significantly boost collaboration with local and national stakeholders.”
About the Egg Industry Center
Founded in 2008, the Egg Industry Center is dedicated to serving the U.S. egg industry and is based at Iowa State University. The Center has successfully conducted educational programs that have reached individuals across 37 states and 13 countries, along with granting over $3 million to egg research projects at 16 institutions in North America. Its mission is to connect stakeholders with science-based information and innovative solutions to propel the egg industry forward.
For those interested in collaborating with the Egg Industry Center or learning more about its programs, visit the Egg Industry Center’s website.
Source: Iowa State University
