Faculty Profile: Rick Funston

Rick Funston

About Rick

I grew up on a farm and ranch in central North Dakota. I have been in Animal Science for 19 years. Previously, I have worked as an extension educator, a nutritionist for a feed company, the rodeo coach for Chadron State College, and was a beef extension specialist for Montana State in Miles City. I received my BS from North Dakota State University, my MS from Montana State University, my Ph.D. from the University of Wyoming, and I completed a Post Doc at Colorado State University in Reproductive Biotechnology. 

What is your position at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center?

I am a professor and Reproductive Physiologist at the University of Nebraska located at West Central Research and Extension Center in North Platte. My position is in extension and research appointment. My research focus is on heifer development, fetal programming effects on postnatal calf performance including carcass characteristics, reproduction, and beef systems research. In the extension capacity, I provide leadership and subject matter expertise for educational programs in cow-calf production management for the West Central District and statewide expertise in beef reproductive management programs.

What is your life like outside of work?

Outside of work I enjoy horseback riding, going to the gym, and being outdoors.