Lab Members
Our lab group changes frequently as students go on to complete their degrees; this is our current research group. To see lab Alumni, scroll down.
Kaycie Schmidt
Laboratory Technician
I am the Research Specialist, aka Research Technician in Dr. Amat’s lab. I conduct research experiments, manage the laboratory, and support student research. I received my B.S. in Biotechnology from NDSU in 2013, and started working in the Micro department shortly thereafter. I have always had a passion for science, and am so thrilled to be able to do what I love every day.
At home I have a husband, two amazing young daughters, and an Olde English Bulldogge. I love spending time with my friends and family, watching football, and anything that gets me outdoors.
Gabriella Magossi
Graduate Student (PhD)
My research is focused on finding alternatives for the use of antibiotics in animal production, specifically beef cattle. One of my focuses is evaluating essential oils' effects on the nasopharynx microbiome and bovine respiratory disease pathogens. My second research is focused on finding bacteriophages that target different bovine pathogens and can potentially be used for phage therapy.
These projects match my interest in microbiology and animal health since I come from a background of getting my doctor of veterinary medicine from the University of Sao Paulo in Botucatu, Brazil, and my masters in food microbiology from Kansas State University. I am also interested in using bioinformatics to analyze 16s rRNA sequencing and whole genome sequencing.
Emily Webb
Graduate Student (Masters)
In May 2021, I graduated with my bachelor's degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from NDSU and am currently pursuing my master's degree in Microbiology under the supervision of Dr. Amat. My research involves characterizing and analyzing the reproductive microbiome of cattle to understand better the discrepancy between pregnancy rates of natural breeding and artificial insemination. I enjoy crocheting, baking, and playing cards and board games in my spare time!
Sarah Leucke
Graduate Student (Masters)
I am a fourth-generation farm kid from Southern Indiana and a first-generation college student. My passion lies in animal agriculture, and I have a very special interest in regenerative agricultural practices. I received a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from Purdue University. My interest in the role of the microbiome in animal health and development led me to my position at NDSU. My research is focused on the microbiome involved in cattle reproduction and fetal development. I’m currently working on a project to evaluate the microbiome of bovine fetuses and their nutritionally challenged dams.
