Dan Shike, a nationally recognized leader in beef cattle production, has been named the permanent head of the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. His appointment is effective June 16, 2026, following a successful two-year term as interim head.
Shike’s research focuses on identifying nutritional and management strategies that improve the efficiency, reproductive performance and profitability of beef cattle production systems. His work examines the entire production cycle, helping producers improve profitability while supporting a safe and affordable food supply.
“Dr. Shike understands the many ways that animal sciences contributes to society through companion animal science, biomedical research, food systems, and human health,” says Germán Bollero, College of ACES dean. “His collaborative leadership style, dedication to students, and record of excellence in research, teaching, and outreach position him well to lead the department into its next chapter.”
Shike’s academic and research career is defined by high-impact contributions to the livestock industry:
- Research Funding: Secured more than $12 million in external research grants.
- Publications: Authored or co-authored 85-plus peer-reviewed publications.
- Mentorship: Advised 30 graduate students and mentored over 50 undergraduate researchers.
- Teaching Excellence: Named to the university’s “List of Teachers Ranked Excellent” more than 25 times.
His contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including the University of Illinois Provost’s Distinguished Promotion Award, the Karl E. Gardner Outstanding Undergraduate Adviser Award and the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Educator Award.
A native of Illinois, Shike earned an associate degree from Black Hawk College, a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences from Kansas State University and both a master’s degree and doctorate in animal sciences from U. of I. He joined the faculty in 2011 after serving as a visiting assistant professor in the department.
“It is an honor to serve as head of a department with such a rich history and far-reaching impact,” Shike says. “I look forward to working alongside our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends to build on that foundation and advance the department’s impact in Illinois and around the world.”
Shike’s wife, Jennifer, is brand leader of Farm Journal’s PORK and host of “The PORK Podcast.” They have three kids — Olivia, Hunter and Harper.
