Mr. Fowlkes has overseen the animal program at ACHRI since 2002. He ensures that research animals receive appropriate care in accordance with USDA, AAALAC, IACUC, and AALAS guidelines and relevant standard operating procedures and the applicable study design. He manages the animal facility staff. Mr. Fowlkes is responsible for the training of animal facility staff in the areas of animal handling and care and in the use of facility equipment. He maintains the daily census logs, standard operating procedures, and other administrative documents for the facility. Mr. Fowlkes oversees the management of feeding and bedding supplies and equipment for the animal facility to meet the required needs. He is the Institute’s manager of the animal health program which involves agreements with UAMS veterinarians to provide care to research animals. He also is responsible for the facility’s exercise and enrichment program meeting USDA requirements.

Prior to ACHRI, Mr. Fowlkes participated in the brucellosis program for the Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission as a livestock inspector and investigator for three years. He also was a farm laborer over five years at a commercial farm and at Arkansas State University’s farm. Mr. Fowlkes earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Arkansas State University.