Steven Kitchens Research Associate IV

Steven Kitchens is a Research Associate IV in Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine, where his work centers on microbiology, food safety, and pathogen control. His research includes the use of bacteriophages as targeted interventions to reduce Salmonella contamination in animal production systems, as well as contributions to whole‑genome sequencing and phylogenetic analyses that deepen understanding of Salmonella diversity and movement within poultry production environments.


His research experience extends across multiple infectious disease models involving both livestock and avian species. In dairy calves, he has participated in experimental infection and treatment studies evaluating how bacteriophage therapy affects Salmonella virulence, clinical disease progression, fecal shedding, and pathogen fitness.  His work also supports poultry‑related investigations into Salmonella in broiler systems, and he has conducted research on the use of bacteriophages to reduce Salmonella in an experimental chicken model. Additionally, his research incorporates pathogen virulence testing techniques such as chicken embryo lethality assays, which help characterize strain pathogenicity in controlled laboratory conditions.

Beyond his scientific contributions, Kitchens provides hands‑on mentorship and training for graduate, veterinary, and undergraduate students. His instruction covers microbiology laboratory techniques, bacteriophage handling, and the development of experimental infection models, helping students build practical, research‑aligned skills that support both veterinary medicine and public health.