Dr. Maria R. C. de Godoy is an Assistant Professor of Companion Animal and Comparative Nutrition at the University of Illinois. The overarching goals of her research focused on 3 main areas: 1. analytical methods and animal models for evaluation of nutritional adequacy of novel ingredients; 2. the effects of processing on pet food quality, nutritional value, and safety; and 3. the role of nutraceuticals in health and wellness of pets. Dr. Godoy has an internationally recognized program highlighted by near $ 6 million in extramural funding, internal grants, and donations to support research, 35 invited lectures nationally and internationally, and over 50 peer-reviewed publications. She has an outstanding teaching record and has been consistently named to the Univ. of IL “List of Teachers Ranked as Excellent by Their Students.”  Dr. Godoy’s academic program showcases her innovative approach to science that further advances the pet food industry and the nutritional sciences community.