CORE - Primary Faculty and Staff

Natalia Cernicchiaro, DVM, PhD

Director, Center for Outcomes Research and Epidemiology | Professor, Epidemiology

785-532-4241

Dr. Cernicchiaro's research focus is on the application of epidemiological concepts and methods, including multi-level modeling and knowledge synthesis and translation techniques, to design, implement and interpret observational and experimental studies pertaining to food safety, zoonoses, arthropod-borne diseases and production medicine. She teaches basic and advanced epidemiology courses and mentors students in the MPH, MS, and PhD programs.

Michael W. Sanderson DVM, MS, DACVPM-Epidemiology

Associate Director, Center for Outcomes Research and Epidemiology | W.S. & E.C. Jones Professor of Epidemiology

785-532-4264

Dr. Sanderson’s research is focused on health, well-being and decreased production in livestock production enterprises, including transboundary disease risk and management. He applies the tools of epidemiology, risk analysis and disease modeling to facilitate optimal decision making. He teaches Epidemiology, Disease Modeling, Beef Production and mentors DVM, MS, MPH and PhD students.

Andrea Dixon, PhD

Associate Director of Research and Analytical Services, Center for Outcomes Research and Epidemiology | Data scientist

aldixon@vet.k-state.edu

Andrea works at the intersection of data science and outcomes research. Her primary focus is knowledge synthesis, utilizing methodologies and tools - like systematic reviews, meta-analysis and evidence mapping - to synthesize what is known, identify knowledge gaps and generate robust insights. Leveraging these tools alongside advanced data analytics, Andrea’s goal is to turn complex scientific findings into clear-evidence based insights, supporting stakeholders in making informed decisions that protect animal populations, safeguard food systems and strengthen preparedness against emerging disease threats.

David G. Renter, DVM, PhD

Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Programs | The Dr. Robert MacDonald Professor of Veterinary Medicine

785-532-4801

Dr. Renter’s outcomes-based research enables valid data-driven decisions to improve animal health/well-being, food safety, production efficiency and economic viability of animal health systems. He teaches epidemiology and mentors students in DVM, MPH, MS and PhD programs.

Christy Hanthorn, DVM, MS

Research Assistant Professor, Epidemiology

Dr. Hanthorn’s research focus is on beef cattle herd health, preventive medicine, and disease outbreak planning and preparedness. She teaches a veterinary course in epidemiology.

Ashley Thackrah, MPH

Project Coordinator

cricket1@vet.k-state.edu

Ashley received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Public Health from Kansas State University. Her responsibilities include coordinating and tracking activities for the research and training programs of the center, monitoring budgets, assisting with reporting and data management, and providing administrative support for the CORE.