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@ksu.edu

Dr. Dixon 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, Dr. Dixon’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.

Christy Hanthorn, DVM, MS

Research Associate 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.

David G. Renter, DVM, PhD

Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Programs

Dr. Renter is the founder and former Director of CORE. 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. In his leadership roles, he is engaged in strategic development and implementation of wide-range research and training initiatives.

Annette O’Connor, BVSc, MVSc, DVSc, FANZCVSc

Hodes Family Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine

Dr. O’Connor is an internationally recognized quantitative epidemiologist, researcher and research synthesizer. Her passion is applying these tools to inform better policy related to the full spectrum of veterinary science. Dr. O’Connor’s primary research includes bovine respiratory disease, infectious keratoconjunctivitis, and highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks. She also has been a leader in research methods in veterinary science, as well as in translating research into practice to maximize research value and reduce research wastage. She has been instrumental in developing and applying research synthesis methods and creating tools to improve research utilization in public health, clinical medicine and food safety.

Ashley Thackrah, MPH

Project Coordinator

cricket1@ksu.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.