MANHATTAN, KAN. — Elanco Animal Health Incorporated has entered a five-year strategic partnership with Kansas State University, selecting the university as its primary veterinary partner. The partnership will focus on collaborative research and the development and licensing of intellectual property for use in commercial animal health initiatives.

Specifically, researchers at Elanco and Kansas State will delve into sustainable livestock production and pet health practices, vector-borne and emerging disease prevention and treatment, and understanding various animal microbiomes.

"K-State and Elanco have many areas of shared strengths and goals. The alignment is a natural fit," said Bonnie Rush, dean of the Kansas State College of Veterinary Medicine. "The exchange of scientific expertise between talented scientists from both entities will create a special environment for rapid advancements. The cumulative experience and balance of science and commercialization ensure technologic advancements will achieve practical application."

On the topic of sustainable practices, one key goal is to establish “novel approaches” to reducing the carbon footprint of livestock production in safe and efficient ways.

This strategic partnership will include Kansas State faculty members, graduate students and fellows, utilizing the university’s research resources and laboratories to conduct and apply research.

"An alliance with Kansas State University is truly a win-win for both organizations," said Jose Simas, executive vice president of Elanco’s US Farm Animal business. "It provides Elanco with an opportunity to engage with experts beyond our own walls, focusing on timely innovation and practical solutions. Meanwhile, K- State has the opportunity to utilize the commercial expertise of a leading animal health organization with nearly 70 years of industry experience."

Kansas State University is a leader in food, nutrition and agriculture education and plays a significant role in educating the pet food industry through its research into pet nutrition and extrusion. The university offers several annual short courses in pet food formulation, production and extrusion.

"Forming this strategic alliance with Elanco enhances our ability to receive critical industry feedback earlier in the process on discoveries consistent with their external innovation targets," said Bret Ford, director of business development and licensing, animal health at K-State Innovation Partners. "In addition, the interaction will shine a spotlight on the talent and expertise of our faculty and will demonstrate how their applied research can tackle some of the biggest problems affecting the health and well-being of animals."

Elanco is a global animal health company focused on health products and disease prevention and treatment among farm animal and pets. The company’s health solutions benefit farmers, pet owners and veterinarians.

"As the state's land-grant university, K-State has a long history of commitment to innovations in animal health and agricultural sustainability research," said Beth Montelone, senior associate vice president for research. "This alliance with Elanco will enable K-State to continue this work and contribute important advancements to the industry."

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