About our Research Staff

Dr. C. Ross Hamilton
Director of Government Affairs and Related Technology, Darling International
B.S., M.S – Texas Tech University
Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition – University of Missouri

Dr. Hamilton was on the faculty of South Dakota State University for 12 years as an Extension Specialist (1984-1988) and as an Associate Professor (1988 to 1996) with a 35 % teaching and 65 % research appointment. In 1996, Dr. Hamilton joined Darling International. He has co-authored more than 150 scientific papers and publications. Dr. Hamilton is a Registered Professional Animal Scientist, a Charter Diplomat of the American College of Animal Nutrition, and is active in a number of professional scientific societies and industry organizations.


David Kirstein
Director of Technical Services, Darling International
B.A. –Biology & Chemistry, Seattle Pacific College
M.S. – Nutrition (Animal Science) – Washington State University

David Kirstein, Director of Technical Services, works with management on product safety programs and industry accreditations, and oversees the corporate laboratory. He joined Darling in May 2006, after 20 years in the feed industry with National Byproducts and ConAgra. David serves on the research committees for the Animal Co-Products Research and Education Center (Clemson Univ.) and for the Fats and Proteins Research Foundation. He has served on the executive committee of the Animal Protein Producers Industry since 1992 and as chair from 1998 to 2000. He is also active in a number of professional scientific societies and industry organizations.