The Data-Driven Research & Innovation in Veterinary Epidemiology Lab (DRIVE) is an integrated research and extension group in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University focused on improving dairy herd health, biosecurity, and production sustainability.
The lab applies quantitative epidemiology, on-farm surveillance, and data-driven technologies to address practical challenges facing modern dairy systems.
Our mission is to develop science-based, field-ready solutions that improve animal health, farm profitability, and public health. We combine epidemiologic methods, longitudinal farm data, and emerging technologies, such as computer vision and precision-monitoring tools, to better understand disease dynamics and support evidence-based decision making.
The DRIVE Lab works closely with dairy producers, veterinarians, industry partners, and public agencies to ensure research findings translate into actionable management strategies. In addition to research and extension, the lab provides hands-on training for graduate, veterinary, and undergraduate students in applied epidemiology, data science, and One Health approaches.
Research Areas
- Emerging and transboundary diseases. Epidemiology, transmission, and on-farm surveillance of high-impact pathogens affecting dairy cattle.
- Milk quality and udder health. Prevention and management strategies to improve milk quality and reduce mastitis.
- Biosecurity, Outreach & Human Interface. Risk assessment and prevention strategies to reduce disease introduction and spread at the human and livestock.
- Precision dairy technologies. Application of computer vision, farm data systems, and advanced analytics to support health monitoring and decision-making.
- Population health and on-farm data systems. Integration of herd data and epidemiologic information to support evidence-based management decisions.