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Multi-omics
Proteomics, lipidomics, metabolomics, genomics, and epigenomics reveal the systems behind reproductive success.
Research narrative →Molecular reproductive physiology
Decoding fertility.
Advancing agriculture.
We investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms that shape livestock sire fertility—turning single-cell insight into tools for a more productive, sustainable future.
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From a single cell
to a healthier herd.
At the intersection of biology, data, and animal agriculture, we’re building a clearer picture of male fertility—one cell at a time.
Research
Four integrated programs move from molecular discovery to precision diagnostics.
Explore ↗02Publications
Peer-reviewed scholarship with corresponding- and first-author work emphasized.
View record ↗03Research exchange
Invited talks, abstracts, posters, scientific meetings, and international instruction.
Explore exchange ↗04Teaching
Anatomy, physiology, entrepreneurship, AI-enabled learning, and mentorship.
Explore ↗Our research
Questions that move
the field forward.
Our multi-omic approach connects molecular signatures with reproductive outcomes in boars, bulls, and other sires.
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Single-cell phenomics
High-throughput cellular imaging paired with artificial intelligence identifies meaningful fertility biomarkers.
Visit the center →∞
Translational andrology
Advanced assays turn discovery into practical insight for producers, breeders, and industry partners.
Andrology Analytics →Why it matters
More insight.
Fewer resources.
Stronger outcomes.
Improving our ability to predict and understand sire fertility can strengthen livestock efficiency while reducing the resources needed to produce food.
Read the Iowa State storyBuilt for discovery
Technology that
makes cells visible.
In vitro fertilization labTri-gas, time-lapse embryo imaging
Imaging & instructionLeica stereo microscopes
Embryo imagingLeica DMi8 THUNDER
Single-cell phenomicsImageStreamX Mk II systems
Cell sortingBD FACSMelody
Molecular imagingLeica DM6 THUNDER
Lab automationPlate reader & pipetting robot
Mitochondrial Function SuiteOroboros O2k systems
28,000cells per second captured by image-based flow cytometry
20×–60×objectives with brightfield, scatter, and fluorescence imaging
Tri-gastime-lapse in vitro embryo imaging capabilities
People & possibilities
Curious minds.
Shared purpose.
We are researchers, collaborators, and mentors committed to careful science and meaningful impact. Graduate students and collaborators are invited to start a conversation.
Meet the team“
Tomorrow’s discoveries are being unearthed today.— Kerns Lab
From the lab
