Dr. Yaogeng Lei (Lei) joined the team in September 2022 as a Research Associate with the TACLP. Since starting at the TACLP, Lei has been diving into knowledge and common practices in the beef industry. He is currently working on projects and literature reviews involving biodiversity, Alberta feedlot manure and practices, and animal welfare. He enjoys working with the team at the TACLP and thoroughly enjoys diving deep into the research. Lei highlights how working in the research world allows him the opportunity to learn new things every day to continually build his knowledge base.
Born and raised in China, Lei obtained his B.Sc. in animal science, and M.Sc. in animal nutrition and feed science from Northwest A&F University in Shaanxi, China. After graduation, Yaogeng came to Canada to pursue his Ph.D. in animal science from the University of Saskatchewan. His research project evaluated the structural and nutritional characteristics of genetic modified alfalfa with both traditional and spectral methods. Through his graduate studies, Lei worked with cashmere goats, lambs, sheep and dairy cows in diet formulation, sample collection and evaluation. Prior to joining the College, Lei worked as a data analyst analyzing feed efficiency data of cattle and sheep for feedlots and research institutes. Lei has knowledge and skills in ruminant nutrition, experimental design and statistical analysis.
Outside of work life, “Loona” takes the top spot in priorities for Lei and his partner, Dariel. Loona is their 10-month old Border Collie who gets spoiled with numerous walks and endless cuddles all day and every day — and they keep a close eye on her with a doggie cam to make sure she is safe and sound and, most importantly, happy.
Lei also enjoys going to the mountains for relaxing hikes where he can enjoy nature, animals and plants — and coming home to their mini greenhouse of indoor houseplants.
Technology Access Centre for Livestock Production
