Dr. Nicholas Wege Dias is a new assistant professor in the Kansas State University Animal Sciences and Industry Department. Dias is a beef cattle reproductive physiologist who focuses on the ultimate fertility factors of cows to create management strategies for producers that help improve fertility in their herds. His appointment is 40% research and 60% teaching.
Dias earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from São Paulo State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science in 2016. He continued his education at Virginia Tech Department of Animal and Poultry Science and earned his master’s degree in 2018 and doctorate in 2022.
While receiving a master’s degree, Dias assisted in extension programs that trained state extension agents and producers on courses about reproductive technologies. These experiences allowed him to gain an understanding of the important role that extension plays in educating producers about the research universities develop. This interest in extension led him to earn a certification in the Graduate Extension Scholars (GES) program. GES is a professional development opportunity for graduate students to develop extension and outreach programs for communities in Virginia. During his time with GES, he was able to develop three different extension programs.
Inspired by the outcome of his extension program and hoping to improve his teaching skills and experience, Dias enrolled in the Graduate Teaching Scholars program while working on his doctorate. During this program, Dias participated in weekly sessions that prepared the scholar for being efficient at teaching in higher education. He had the chance to develop and teach his own class on beef cattle reproductive management.
“Dr. Dias adds depth of knowledge in beef cattle fertility to our department,” said Dr. Mike Day, K-State ASI department head. “We are excited to add his passion for teaching, research and extension, along with his enthusiasm for the land grant mission.”
Dias and his wife, Gabriela, live in Manhattan. He enjoys a good BBQ and watching soccer.
