2001-2003 - Michigan State University, Post-Doctoral Fellow

1998-2001 - West Virginia University, Ph.D. Reproductive Physiology

1994-1997 - University of the West Indies, M.Sc. Tropical Animal Science

1990-1993 - University of the West Indies, B.Sc. Agriculture (First Class Honors)

1987-1989 - Eastern Caribbean Institute of Agriculture and Forestry (ECIAF) - Dip. Agriculture (Honors).

COMMITTEES AND POSITIONS

2010 - Present

1.  Advisor Minister of Agriculture Land and Fisheries - Government of Trinidad and Tobago (January 2016 - Present) - Review of the Livestock sector and provide advice on policies and procedures related to development of the Livestock sector.
2. Program Reviewer - UTT (2016). Reviewed and evaluated programs in Bio-Sciences Agriculture and Food Technology (BAFT), Bio-Medical Engineering and Masters of Health Administration (MHA) on behalf of the Board of the UTT.
3. Representative to the North and Central Region (NCR)-190 committee now NCERA 214. NCERA214 is one of two multi-state research committees in the U.S. that focuses on sheep.  It comprises member states from Virginia to Oregon and North Dakota to Texas, and is unique due to its emphasis on reproduction, carcass leanness, meat quality, and milk.
4. Scientist -WV Small Ruminant Project. This project is responsible for planning and implementation of management strategies aimed at improving the productivity of the small ruminant animals located at all West Virginia University farms. As lead Scientist I was also responsible for expansion and improvement of the Katahdin ewe flock at the Wardensville Research Station
5. Reviewer Fulbright Specialist Program (2015-present)
6. WVU-Faculty Service Committee -Member (2015-).
7. WVU-Financial Aid Appeals Committee (2015-).
8. Faculty Fellow-Boreman Hall Planning and implementation of student adjustment and retention programs:  (2011- Present).
9. Service Learning Advisory Committee- Center for Service and Learning, Office of Vice Provost Academic Affairs: (2011-Present).
10. Diversity Committee- Member (2010-2011) and Chair 2011-2012)- Davis College of Agriculture Natural Resource and Design, WVU.
11. Student recruitment- Notable accomplishments- Recruitment on behalf of and visit with Aspiring Doctoral Students. Adam redhead (current PhD. Student was recruited through and supported by this program). Denzel Middleton at MANRRs National Conference and Ashley Lindo, current PhD student and W.E.B Du Bois Fellow.
12. Division of Animal and Nutritional Science, WVU - Curriculum Committee (2011- 2014).
13. Division of Animal and Nutritional Science, WVU-Livestock Species Committee (2011-present).
14. Search Committee Member- Division Director-Animal & Nutritional Sciences, WVU (2013-2014).
15. Search Committee Member - Faculty Program Coordinator and Operations Coordinator in the Center for Service and Learning, Office of the Provost Academic Affairs (2015).
16. Established the WVU Chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) and serves as its Faculty Advisor (2013-present).
17. Resource person for and presenter at various student development initiatives including Our-WVU communities, Mountaineer Success Academy (2011-present).
18. VISTA Collaborative Committee Member (2015-present).
19. Division Promotion and Tenure Committee (2013, 2016)
20. Academic Advisor- 8 students currently.
21. Advisor- New student orientation.
22. Reviewer for at least 6 peer reviewed journals (2010-present).

2004-2010

1. Member of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago Inter-Ministerial Taskforce on Food Prices (2007-2009) and Efficient land Use Management strategies.
2. Consultant, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)/ECIAF. Eastern Caribbean Institute of Agriculture and Forestry (ECIAF)-Re-development Plan (2008).
3. Consultant, Organization of American States (OAS) & Ministry of Agriculture Antigua:- May 2006-June 2010-Developing Good Agriculture Practices (GAPs) for the Livestock Industry.
4. Leader Livestock Unit and Coordinator of the Food Production Teaching and Research Laboratory, Department of Food Production, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, The University of the West Indies. 2004-2006.
5. Chair of the Livestock Technical Advisory Committee (LTAC). This committee is responsible for planning and implementation of management strategies for animals at the University Field Station 2005-2008.
6. President :  Association of Professional Agricultural Scientist of Trinidad and Tobago -(APASTT) - 2005-2007.
7. Member of the Caribbean Small Ruminant Net Work (CASRUNET) Planning Committee.  This committee is an organizing Committee based in CARDI with a focus on conducting research for the improvement of the Small Ruminant Sector in the Caribbean.
8. Member of the Sugar Cane Feeds Center Advisory Committee: This committee serves as an advisory group for the operations of the Sugar Cane Feeds Center.
9. Member of the Department of Food Production committee on Postgraduate studies.
10. Member of the Department of Food Production committee on Undergraduate Programs. In addition to review of the curriculum for existing undergraduate programs, I developed and proposed a new program - BSc. In Animal and Pre-medical Sciences.
11.  Member of the Department of Food Production committee on Research Development.
12. 2003-2004: Appointed Chair of the Small Ruminant Management Committee. This committee is responsible for planning and implementation of management strategies aimed at improving the productivity of the small ruminant animals located at all West Virginia University farms.
13. 2003-July 2004:        Appointed to the College’s Information Technology (IT) Committee. This monitors, evaluates and recommends IT improvements within the college.
14. 2003-July 2004: Appointed Division of Animal and Veterinary Sciences representative to the North and Central Region (NCR)-190 committee. NCR190 is one of two multi-state research committees in the U.S. that focuses on sheep.  It comprises member states from Virginia to Oregon and North Dakota to Texas, and is unique due to its emphasis on reproduction, carcass leanness, meat quality, and milk.

Philosophy: I believe that Animal Scientist should seek to better understand the form and function of animal systems and utilize this knowledge to develop and or improve approaches that will enhance the productivity and profitability of farming operations, in so doing, conserve and improve our animal genetic resources, reduce food insecurity, and improve the livelihood of the producer and the welfare of the world’s citizens.

Research Focus: Focused on increasing productivity of small ruminants by increasing reproductive performance, enhancing reproductive outcome and productivity in sheep, dairy cattle and water buffaloes. These efforts were supported entirely from grants/awards, in kind donations and partnerships with producers.

I also partnered with the Division of Natural Resources and Design and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to develop models for assessing Real Property Market Value for the Wetland and Grassland Reserve Programs.

Sheep Reproductive Performance: Research on enhancing sheep reproductive performance have been aimed at enhancing lifetime productivity of the ewe by reducing the age at first lambing; increasing the frequency of lambing through rebreeding early postpartum in both the breeding, and non-breeding season, increasing feasibility and reproductive outcome from synchronized breeding, and increasing total weight of lambs weaned. My studies was the basis for FDA approval of a progesterone delivery device (CIDRs) for use in breeding non-lactating ewes during the anestrous period. My graduate students and I followed up on these studies and investigated approaches to enhance reproductive outcome from out-of-season breeding in dry mature ewes, lactating ewes and nulliparous females. Similar studies were conducted in hair sheep in Trinidad.

Improving Reproductive Outcome and Productivity of Animals in Tropical Latitudes: Efforts in this area focused on the following:

Evaluation of Timed Artificial Insemination (TAI) Protocols in Dairy Cattle.  Pregnancy rates in dairy cattle in the tropics can be less than 10% in part due to poor estrous detection rates (less than 25%) and the availability of a limited-centralized artificial insemination program. Therefore, appropriate TAI treatments can have a positive impact on productivity and profitability of dairy cattle operations under these conditions.

Evaluation of Timed Artificial Insemination (TAI) Protocols in Water Buffaloes:

Evaluation of Lactation Induction (LAI) Protocols in Dairy Cattle. Milk production of dairy cattle in tropical latitudes is often low and associated with poor reproductive performance reflected in extended age at first calving, long calving intervals with a high proportion of animals in extended lactation and a high proportion of open and dry (non-lactating animals). Lactation induction was evaluated as a possible option for rapidly increasing the proportion of lactating cows and in so doing increase milk production. This study formed the basis for the award of the M.Phil in Livestock Science to Mr. Reeza Ramgattie.

Relationship between circulating concentrations of Anti-mullerian Hormone (AMH), Age, Follicle Growth and Response to Superovulatory Treatments in Water Buffaloes.

Conservation, improvement and dissemination of water buffalo genetics are hampered by the low embryo yield following superovulation. AMH is known to be a reliable marker of the antral follicle population and superovulatory response in some species. Our studies characterized the circulating systemic concentrations of AMH and determines its relationship to follicle growth and development and superovulatory response in water buffaloes. These studied for the basis for the dissertation of Dr. Adam redhead

GRANTS & CONTRACTS: Total USD $1,186, 913 with $906,913 Since 2010.

• Economic Development by a Strategic Shift in Breeding Time in Ewe Flocks- Lewis, P.E., Inskeep, E.K., Knights, M. -WV Legislature $344,000. (2011-2014)
• Enhancing Productivity of Ewe Lambs through use of Reproductive Management. Knights, M., Singh-Knights, D., Smith, B. USDA/SARE $ 134,152 (2014-2016).
• Enhancing Productivity of sheep through greater Access and Use of Genetically Evaluated Breeding Stock. Knights, M., Singh-Knights, D., Smith, B. USDA/SARE $ 12, 156 (2014-2016).
• Increasing Agriculture Service Providers’ and Livestock Producers’ Knowledge of the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System. Singh-Knights, D., Knights, M., Basden, T and Faulkner, J. USDA/SARE $26,699 (2011-2014)
• Evaluation of Continuous Suckling/”Ewe Rearing” strategy by lamb producers. Baptiste, Q., Knights, M., Singh-Knights, D. USDA/SARE $14,792 (2012-2014).
• Increasing Adoption of Out-of-Season Breeding to Enhance Profitability of Sheep Producers in West Virginia GNE11-015 Knights, M & D’Souza, K. USDA/SARE  $14,999
• Effect of Continuous Suckling/”Ewe Rearing” on Growth and Level of Parasitism of Lambs and on Productivity and Profitability of Lamb Operations Knights, M & Simpson, S. USDA/SARE  GNE11-029 $14,741 (2011-2014)
• Appraisal of Real Property Market Value for the Wetland Reserve Program 68-3D47-11-11 Singh-Knights, D., Knights, M. USDA/NRCS $50,793.49. (2011-2013)
• Appraisal of Real Property Market Value for the Grass Land Reserve Program 68-3D47-11-10 Singh-Knights, D.,  Knights, M. USDA/NRCS $81,081.26 (2011-2013)
• Regional (NCERA-214) & HATCH funds ~$48,000 (2011-2015)
• Pharmacia and Upjohn Inc. In kind supplies- - $40.000
• PROF.DOC Joint Post-Doctoral Position- Office of the President 2012-2013: Knights, M.’ Felton, G. ~$100,000
• Campus Compact- Community LINK Program: Using Service Learning in Animal Science Courses -2012: $6000
• WVU Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design Faculty Development Fund Award; Development of a Study Abroad Course on Tropical Animal Health and Production-2012: $2,400
• WVU Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design Faculty Development Fund Award: Expanding and Enhancing the Tropical Animal & Veterinary Health Experience Study Abroad Course-2015:  $4,800
• International Faculty Development Grant-2015: $1000
• Center for Service and Learning- Americorps VISTA program: 2015: 11,700
• Government of Trinidad and Tobago and UWI Research Grant - “Economic Analysis of Enhanced Milk Production through Improved Reproductive Management of Cattle and Buffaloes” Amount of Award - $TT 200,000 ~US$80,000

PUBLICATIONS

1. Knights, M. and Garcia, G. W. (1997). The status and characteristics of the goat (Capra hircus) and its potential role as a significant milk producer in the tropics: A Review. Small Ruminant Research 26:203-215.
2. Knights, M., Hoehn, T., Lewis, P. E., and Inskeep, E. K. (2001). Effectiveness of intravaginal progesterone inserts and FSH for inducing synchronized estrus and increasing lambing rate in anestrous ewes. J. Anim. Sci. 79:1120-1131.
3. Knights, M., Maze, T. D., Bridges, P. J., Lewis, P. E., and Inskeep, E. K. (2001). Short-term treatment with a controlled internal drug releasing (CIDR) device and FSH to induce fertile estrus and increase prolificacy in anestrous ewes. Theriogenology 55:1181-1191.
4. Knights, M., Baptiste, Q. S., and Lewis, P. E. (2002). Ability of ram introduction to induce an increase in LH secretion, estrus and ovulation in fall-born ewe lambs during anestrus. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 69 (3-4):199-209.
5. Knights, M., Baptiste, Q. S., Dixon, A.B., Pate, J.L., Marsh, D., Inskeep, E.K., and Lewis, P. E. (2003). Effect of Dosage of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Vehicle and Time of Injection on Ovulation Rate and Prolificacy in Anestrous Ewes. Small Ruminant Research 50:1-9.
6. Knights, M., Hoehn, T., Marsh, D., Lewis, P. E., Pate, J.L., Dixon, A.B., and Inskeep, E.K. (2003). Reproductive management of the ewe flocks by induction or synchronization of estrus. West Virginia Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station Bulletin 726. 20 pp.
7. Knights, M., Singh-Knights, D., Bourne, G.A., Inskeep, E.K., Lewis, P.E. (2004) Use of the ram effect to induce out of season breeding. Workshop on productivity and profitability of ovine enterprises. 7th World Sheep and Wool Congress, July 17-14th Quebec, Canada.  July 20, 2004 pp 355-377
8. Q. S. Baptiste, M. Knights, and P.E. Lewis (2005). Fertility response of yearling beef heifers after prebreeding energy manipulation, estrous synchronization and timed artificial insemination.  Anim. Reprod. Sci. 85:209-221
9. Singh-Knights, Doolarie, D. Smith and M. Knights (2005).  “Developing Needed Price Premiums for Selecting Optimal Marketing Strategies for Sheep Producers in West Virginia.”  Agricultural and Resource Economics Review. Vol. 34 (2): 286
10. Dixon, A.B., Knights, M., Pate, J.L., Lewis, P. E., and Inskeep, E.K. (2006). Reproductive performance of ewes after 5-day treatment with intravaginal inserts containing progesterone in combination with injection of prostaglandin F2a. Reproduction in Domestic Animals. Reprod. Dom. Anim. Vol. 41. 142-148. 
11. Knights, M., and Smith G.W. (2007). Decrease ACTH secretion during prolonged transportation stress is associated with decreased pituitary responsiveness to trophic hormone stimulation in cattle. Domestic Animal Endocrinology 33: 442-450..
12. Dixon, A.B., Knights, M., Winkler, J.L., Marsh D.J., Pate, J.L., Wilson, M.E., Dailey, R.A. and Inskeep, E.K. (2007). Patterns of late embryonic and fetal mortality and association with several factors in sheep. J. Anim. Sci. 85:1274-1284.
13. Jordan, K.M., Inskeep, E.M. and Knights, M. (2009). Use of gonadotropin releasing hormone to improve reproductive responses of ewes introduced to rams during seasonal anestrus. Anim. Reprod. Sci.116: 254-264
14. Devonish, E.H., Knights, M. and  Inskeep, E.K. (2009). Effect of Expected Peripheral Concentrations of Progesterone on Ovulation Rate and Litter Size in Barbados Blackbelly Ewes. Sheep and Goat Research Journal. 24: 17-25.
15. Knights, M., Siew, N., Ramgattie, R., Singh-Knights, D and Bourne, G. (2011). Effectiveness of a Short?Term Treatment with Progesterone Injections on Synchrony of Lambing and Fertility in Tropical Hair Sheep. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 126: 70-75.
16. Knights, M., Siew, N., Ramgattie, R., Singh-Knights, D and Bourne, G. (2012). Effect of Time of Weaning on Reproductive Performance of Ewes and Growth of Lambs in Barbados Blackbelly Sheep reared Under a Tropical Photoperiod Small Ruminant Research 103:205-210.
17. Dickson N., Siew N., Singh-Knights D., Bourne G. and Knights M. (2012). Technical and Economic Outcome using Various Timed Artificial Insemination Protocols in Dairy Cattle in the Tropics. J. Anim. Prod. Adv. 2(11) 490-499
18. Ramgattie, R., Siew, N., Diptee, M., Stoute, V., and Knights, M., (2014): Effect of mammary stimulation on dairy cows and heifers exposed to a lactation induction protocol. OJAS Vol 4 (1): 1-12.
19. Knights, M., Lambie, N., Ramgattie, N., Singh-Knights, D and Siew, N.  (2014).   Evaluation of Timed Artificial Insemination Protocols in Water Buffaloes in Proceedings of the Caribbean Food Crops Society. 49:322-331.
20. D’Souza, K.N.D., Rastle-Simpson, S.L., Redhead, A.K., Baptiste, Q., Smith, B. and Knights, M. (2014). Gonadotropin stimulation using P.G. 600® on reproductive success of non-lactating anestrous ewes. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 148: 115-120.
21. Knights, M., Redhead, A.K., D’Souza, K.N.D., S.L., and Baptiste, Q. (2015). Effect of stimulation with a gonadotropin mixture on reproductive outcome in nulliparous ewes bred during seasonal anestrus and early breeding season. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 159: 198-204.
22. Rastle-Simpson, S.L., D’Souza, K.N.D., Singh-Knights, D., Baptiste, Q., and Knights, M. (2015). Effect of system of lamb rearing and season on early postpartum fertility of ewes and growth performance of lambs in Katahdin sheep. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition: Version of Record online : 23 JUL 2016, DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12551.
23. M. L. Deacon, M.L., Knights, M. and Inskeep, E. K. (2015). Effects of photoperiodic manipulation on growth rate and ability to breed fall-born ewe lambs in spring. Sheep and Goat Research Journal.30: 30-35.
24. Knights, M., and Singh-Knights, D. (2016). Use of Controlled Internal Drug Releasing (CIDR) Devices to Control Reproduction in Goats: A Review: Animal Science Journal. 87:1084-1089.
25. Redhead AK, Siew N, Lambie N, Carnarvon D, Ramgattie R, Knights M (2018). The relationship between circulating concentration of AMH and LH content in the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) preparations on follicular growth and ovulatory response to superovulation in water buffaloes. Anim Reprod. Sci. 188:66-73. doi: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.11.010. Epub 2017 Nov
26. Knights, M., D. Singh-Knights, P. Lewis and K. Inskeep (2004). “Reproductive Management Practices to Improve profitability in Fall Breeding Flocks: Preparing for the Breeding Season”. ‘News Ewe Can Use’ Newsletter, Vol. 6 Issue 2.
27. Singh-Knights, D., D. K. Smith and M. Knights (2004). “A Few Marketing Practices that can Improve the Bottom Line of Your Sheep Operation”. ‘News Ewe Can Use’ Newsletter, Vol. 6 Issue 2.
28. Singh-Knights, Doolarie and M. Knights (2005).  “Feasibility of Goat Production in West Virginia.”  ‘News Ewe Can Use’ Newsletter, Vol. 7 Issue 1, spring 2005.
29. Singh-Knights, D and Knights, M.  (2011). Lamb Prices Hit Record Highs. News “Ewe” Can Use. Vol. 13 (1) pg.2
30. Inskeep, K., Knights, M. and Ramboldt, T. (2011). Out-of-Season Breeding Using the EAZI-Breed CIDR-G in Ewes. Proc. 2011 Virginia-North Carolina Sheperds Symposium. January 5, 2011, Verona, VA.
31. Singh-Knights, D and Knights, M.  (2012). WV Sheep Industry – Poised for Growth. The West Virginia Small Farm Advocate, March 2012 Edition, pg. 3 & 5
32. Knights, M., D. Singh-Knights (2015). Lifetime Productivity of the Ewe Flock Starts With the Ewe Lamb. The West Virginia Small Farm Advocate, Summer 2015 Edition, pg. 16 & 17
33. Knights, M., Costine, B., Lewis, P. E., and Inskeep, E. K. (2000). Fertility of ewes at estrus synchronized with two controlled internal drug releasing devices (CIDR). J. Anim. Sci. 78: (Suppl. 2): 96.
34. Knights, M., Hoehn, T., Lewis, P. E., and Inskeep, E. K. (2000). Effectiveness of intravaginal progesterone inserts and FSH to induce synchronized estrus and increase lambing rate in anestrous ewes. J. Anim. Sci. 78: (Suppl. 2): 216.

35. Knights, M., Maze, T. D., Lewis, P. E., and Inskeep, E. K. (2000). Short-term treatment with a controlled internal drug releasing (CIDR) device and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) on induction of estrus and lambing rate in anestrous ewes. J. Anim. Sci. 78: (Suppl. 1): 553.
36. Knights, M., Inskeep, E. K., and Lewis, P.E. (2000). Follicular dynamics during the periestrous period in anestrous ewes synchronized with progesterone inserts and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). Biol. Reprod. 62 (Suppl.1): 294.
37. Knights, M., Baptiste, Q.S., and Lewis P.E.  Induction of the “ram-effect” and response to estrus induction procedures in Fall born ewe lambs. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS/PSA, Indianapolis, IN, July, 26, 2001. J. Anim. Sci. 79 (Suppl.1):486.
38. Knights, M., Baptiste, Q.S., and Lewis P.E. The ability of ram introduction to induce an LH surge in fall-born ewe lambs during anestrus and modification of the LH surge by progesterone and estrogen. Biol. Reprod. 64 (Suppl 1): 24.
39. Knights, M., Baptiste, Q.S. and Lewis, P. E., (2002). Reproductive Performance of anestrous ewes treated with used-CIDR devices and estrogen. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Quebec City, Canada, July, 21-25, 2002. J. Anim. Sci. 80: (Suppl. 1): 297.
40. Knights, M., Baptiste, Q.S., Dixon, A.B., Inskeep, E.K. and Lewis, P. E., (2002). Effect of Dosage of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Vehicle and Time of Injection on Ovulation Rate and Prolificacy in Anestrous Ewes. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Quebec City, Canada, July, 21-25, 2002. J. Anim. Sci. 80: (Suppl. 1): 29
41. Singh, D., Knights, M. and Smith, D., (2002). An Analysis of Lamb Price Differences for West Virginia Producers. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Quebec City, Canada, July, 21-25, 2002. J. Anim. Sci. 80: (Suppl. 1): 29
42. Knights, M., Qahwash, I.M., and Smith, G.W. (2003). Effect of CRF Receptor Antagonist Administration on Pituitary CRFR1 and V3 Receptor mRNA and the Endocrine Response to Systemic Inflamatory Stress in Cattle. The Endocrine Society 85th Annual Meeting, Philadelphia, USA, June 19-23, 2003. Program and Abstracts P1-430.
43. Singh-Knights D., Smith D. and Knights M.  Market Price Cost of Production, Lambing Patterns and Marketing Options in the West Virginia Sheep Industry.  J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 81, (Suppl. 2) 107. Annual Meeting of the Southern Association of Agricultural Scientists,  February 1-5th, 2003,  Mobile, Alabama
44. Knights, M., Smith, G.W. (2003). Effect of Transportation on Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Activation and Subsequent Responsiveness to Trophic Hormone Stimulation in Cattle. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS/MAAP Phoenix, AZ, USA, June 22-26, 2003. J. Anim. Sci. 81: (Suppl. 1):103.
45. Singh-Knights D., Smith D. and Knights M.(2004)  Forecasting models developed from West Virginia lamb sale transactions provide evidence of seasonality of slaughter and feeder lamb prices and a shifting market preference.  J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 82, (Suppl. 2) 114. Abstract Presented at the Annual Meeting of the Southern Association of Agricultural Scientists, February 2-7th 2004, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
46. Knights, M.  Ames, N.K., and Smith, G.W. (2004).  Involvement of anterior pituitary arginine vasopressin receptor V3 in the stress response of cattle. J. Anim. Sci., Volume 82, (Suppl. I) 921.
47. Jordan K.M.,  Wurst, A.K., Inskeep E.K., and Knights M. (2004). Effect of GnRH in conjunction with ram introduction on the induction of fertile estrus during the nonbreeding season. J. Anim. Sci., Volume 82, (Suppl. I) 636.
48. Singh-Knights D., Smith D. and Knights M. (2005) Marketing Considerations for Northeast Goat Producers Southern Agricultural Economics Association 37th Annual Meetings Program February 5 – 9, 2005.
49. Singh-Knights D., Smith D. and Knights M. (2006) Factors affecting the decision to exit the sheep industry: A three stage regression analysis for producers in West Virginia. American Society of Animal Science Southern Section February 4-8, 2006, Orlando Florida.
50. Singh D, Lewis P E., Knights M. and Smith D.  Analysis of Decision-Making Factors for Sheep Producers in West Virginia: Implications for the U.S. Sheep Industry.  Agricultural and Resource Economics Review Journal. Vol. 29 (2):  251
51. Ramgattie, R, Siew, N and Knights, M (2008).  Effect of mammary stimulation on milk yield in dairy cows and heifers exposed to a lactation-induction protocol. The16th CAS Biennial Conference on Science and Technology: Vehicles for Sustainable Economic Development in the Caribbean; Grande Anse, Grenada 11-13 October 2008; pp.343
52. Knights, M., Siew, N. and Ramgattie, R. (2008). Effectiveness of a short-duration progesterone treatment on synchrony of estrus and fertility in Barbados Blackbelly sheep. The16th CAS Biennial Conference on Science and Technology: Vehicles for Sustainable Economic Development in the Caribbean; Grande Anse, Grenada 11-13 October 2008; pp.341
53. Siew, N., Ramgattie, R and Knights, M (2008). Effect of different weaning systems on ewe fertility, lamb growth and survival in Barbados Blackbelly sheep. The16th CAS Biennial Conference on Science and Technology: Vehicles for Sustainable Economic Development in the Caribbean; Grande Anse, Grenada 11-13 October 2008; pp.342
54. J. Joseph, J., Singh-Knights, D., Knights, M, Smith  D. (2008) Antigua and Barbuda Agriculture, Tourism and Agripreneurship Linkages–Promoting Sustainable Agri-Food Systems through Agrotourism. International Congress on Tropical Agriculture:  Overcoming Challenges to Developing Sustainable Agri-food systems in the Tropics. November 30th-December, 5th, 2008. Hyatt Regency Hotel, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad.
55. Patterson, A., Singh-Knights, D., Knights, M and Palmer, D. (2008) Food Security – An Analysis of Estimated Marketing Margins of Selected Agricultural Commodities in Trinidad and Tobago. International Congress on Tropical Agriculture:  Overcoming Challenges to Developing Sustainable Agri-food systems in the Tropics” November 30th-December, 5th, 2008. Hyatt Regency Hotel, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad.
56. Palmer, D.,Singh-Knights , D  and  Knights , M. (2008). Market Assessment of the Demand of Goat’s Milk in Trinidad. International Congress on Tropical Agriculture: Overcoming Challenges to Developing Sustainable Agri-food systems in the Tropics” November 30th-December, 5th, 2008. Hyatt Regency Hotel, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad.
57. Bridgemohan, P. Knights, M. (2010). Nutrient Analysis of Moringa Oliefera as a High Protein Supplement for Animals.  Advances in Animal Biosciences: 1(2) 428-429.
58. Baptiste, Q., D’Souza, K.N., Simpson, S., Chavez.,S., Nestor, E., Knights, M. and Felton, E. (2012). Early Feeding of low levels of fat supplement suppresses postprandial in vitro rumen metabolism.  Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Phoenix, AZ, USA, July 15-19, 2012. J. Anim. Sci. 90: (Suppl. 3):375.
59. Simpson-Rastle, S.L.,  D’Souza, K.N., Baptiste, Q.S. and Knights, M. (2012). Effect of continuous suckling/ewe-rearing and supplementation on growth performance of Katahdin lambs. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Phoenix, AZ, USA, July 15-19, 2012. J. Anim. Sci. 90: (Suppl. 3):385
60. D’Souza, K.N., Simpson-Rastle, S.L.,  Baptiste, Q.S. and Knights, M. (2012). Prostaglandin-F2α may not be necessary in short-term, Progesterone-based estrous synchronization protocols in cyclic ewes.  Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Phoenix, AZ, USA, July 15-19, 2012. J. Anim. Sci. 90: (Suppl. 3):71
61. D’Souza, K.N., Simpson-Rastle, S.L., Redhead, A.K., Baptiste,Q.S. and Knights, M. (2013). The effects of P.G. 600 on fertility in non-lactating, seasonly anestrous ewes. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Indianapolis, IN, USA, July 8-12, 2013. J. Anim. Sci. 91: (Suppl. 2):608
62. Simpson-Rastle, S.L, D’Souza, K.N., Redhead, A.K., Baptiste,Q.S. and Knights, M. (2013). Effect of continuous suckling/”ewe-rearing” and supplementation on growth performance of pasture-raised Katahdin lambs. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Indianapolis, IN, USA, July 8-12, 2013. J. Anim. Sci. 91: (Suppl. 2):606
63. Baptiste, Q, Nestor, E., Chavez, S., Simpson-Rastle, S.L, D’Souza, K.N., Redhead, A.K., Knights, M. and Felton, E. (2013). Delayed feeding of fat enriched protein supplement alleviates post prandial suppression of in vitro rumen metabolism. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Indianapolis, IN, USA, July 8-12, 2013. J. Anim. Sci. 91: (Suppl. 2):489
64. Simpson-Rastle, S.L, Porter, K.L, D’Souza, K.N., Redhead, A.K., Baptiste,Q.S., Hileman S.M. and Knights, M. (2013). The Initial Increase in LH Following Ram Introduction Is Not Associated with an Increase in Activation of Arcuate Kisspeptin Neurons. SSR 46th Annual Meeting Montreal Quebec Canada, July 22-26, 2013. Reproductive Health: Nano to Global Program: 38
65. D’Souza, K.N., Singh-Knights, D. and Knights, M. (2013). A Risk Management Strategy for Sheep Producers: The Benefits of Breeding Sheep Outside their Normal Breeding Season”. 2013 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference. Denver, CO, April 3-4, 2013
66. Redhead, A.K., D’Souza, K.N., Simpson-Rastle S.L., Baptiste, Q.S. and Knights, M. (2014). The Effects of Gonadotropin Stimulation on Fertility of Progesterone-treated Nulliparous Ewes Bred During Seasonal Anestrous. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Kansas City, MO, USA, July 20-24, 2014. J. Anim. Sci. 92: (Suppl. 2):933
67. Simpson-Rastle, S.L., D’Souza K.N., Redhead A.K., Paul C.D., Keller E.N. and Knights, M.  (2014). Effects of Various Doses of Gonadotropin Stimulation on Reproductive Performance of Seasonally Anestrous Ewes.  Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Kansas City, MO, USA, July 20-24, 2014. J. Anim. Sci. 92: (Suppl. 2):716
68. Paul, C.D., D’Souza K.N., Simpson-Rastle S.L., Redhead, A.K. and Knights, M. (2014). Effect of Prostaglandin F2α on Fertility of Ewes Treated with a Short Term Progesterone Based Estrous Synchronization Protocol. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Kansas City, MO, USA, July 20-24, 2014. J. Anim. Sci. 92: (Suppl. 2):933
69. Knights, M. (2014). Efficiency of Small Ruminant Reproductive Management. Invited Presentation. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Kansas City, MO, USA, July 20-24, 2014. J. Anim. Sci. 92: (Suppl. 2):738
70. Knights, M. (2014). Concepts for Increasing Productivity and Profitability of Meat Goat Operations. Invited Presentation. West Virginia University Small Farms Conference, Morgantown, WV, USA, February, 27, 2014.
71. D’Souza, K., Singh-Knights, D., Simpson, S. and Knights, M. (2014). Characteristics of Female Small Ruminant Producers in WV-Implications for Extension Training and Industry Support. 2014 Women in Agriculture Educators National Conference, Indianapolis, IN, USA, April 3-4, 2014.  http://www.agrisk.umn.edu/Library/ConferenceMaterials.aspx?ConfID=13
72. Wood-Turner, K., Baptiste, Q. S. and Knights, M. (2015). Integrating Service in Introductory Animal Science Courses to Enhance Learning and Persistence. ASAS Innovate 2015 Conference, Innovations in Education: An Animal Science Curriculum for the 21st Century, Braselton, GA, May 31-June 2nd , 2015.
73. Paul, C.D., Greenleaf, E.N., Redhead A.K. and Knights, M. (2015). Effect of timing of PGF2α administration in a short term progesterone-based estrous synchronization protocol on fertility in ewes. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Orlando, FL, USA, July 12-16, 2015. J. Anim. Sci. 93: (Suppl. 3):495
74. Greenleaf, E.N., Paul, C.D., Adebiyi, A.E., Powell, K.J., Redhead A.K. and Knights, M. (2015). Effect of weaning rapid rebreeding in Katahdin ewes. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Orlando, FL, USA, July 12-16, 2015. J. Anim. Sci. 93: (Suppl. 3):495
75. Adebiyi, A.E., Redhead, A.K., Paul, C.D., Greenleaf, E.N., Singh-Knights, D. and Knights, M. (2016). Effect of nutritional supplementation and gonadotropin stimulation on fertility of early postpartum ewes. Southern Section of the ASAS San Antonio, TX, USA. February 6-9, 2016. J. Anim. Sci. 94: (sup. 1) 55-55 doi:10.2527/ssasas2015-112.
76. Readhead, A.K., Siew, N. Lambie, N., Carnarvon, D. and Knights, M. (2016). The relationship between the concentration of anti-mullerian hormone and type of follicle stimulating hormone preparation on ovulatory response to superovulation in water buffaloes. The 11th World Buffalo Congress. Cartagena Colombia, November 21st-25th 2016.
77. Baptiste, Q.S., Knights, M., Redhead, A.K. and Felton, F.E. (2016). Dimorphic chronological development of ruminant digestive system supports development of equivalent muscle fatty acid profiles in continuously suckled and weaned Katahdin lambs. Midwestern Section of ASAS and Midwest Branch ADSA, Des Moines, Iowa, USA. March 14-16, 2016. J. Anim. Sci. 94: (supp. 5) 164-164. doi:10.2527/msasas2016-349
78. Adcock, J., Baptiste, Q.S. and Knights, M. (2016). Characterization of students’ educational background and subsequent use of relevant teaching methods enhances student engagement and success in introductory animal science course. Midwestern Section of ASAS and Midwest Branch ADSA, Des Moines, Iowa, USA. March 14-16, 2016. J. Anim. Sci. 94: (supp. 5): 855-855
    doi:10.2527/jam2016-1755
79. Redhead, A.K., Adebiyi, A.E., Paul, C.D., Keller, E.N., Powell, K.J. and Knights, M. The effect of age, plane of nutrition, and progesterone pretreatment on lambing rate in nulliparous females bred during the breeding season. Midwestern Section of ASAS and Midwest Branch ADSA, Des Moines, Iowa, USA. March 14-16, 2016. J. Anim. Sci. 94: (supp. 2): 27-27 doi:10.2527/msasas2016-059
80. Ramgattie, R., Siew, N., Suepaul., S., Diptee, M., Mohan, K., Stoute, V. and Knights, M. (2016). Effect of season on semen characteristics in water buffalo. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 169. P 129. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.03.080

INVITED REVIEWS AND PRESENTATIONS (12, 9 since 2010):

1. Knights, M. (2000). Reproductive Management Practices in Goat Production. Annual Goat Short-Course and Expo. Virginia State University, Petersburg Virginia, September 23, 2000
2. Knights, M., Singh-Knights, D., Bourne, G.A., Inskeep, E.K., Lewis, P.E. (2004) Use of the Ram Effect to Induce Out-of-Season Breeding. Workshop on Productivity and Profitability of Ovine Enterprises. 7th World Sheep and Wool Congress, July 17-14th Quebec, Canada.  July 20, 2004 pp 355-377
3. Knights, M. (2006). Enhancing Productivity of Livestock Operations in Developing Countries through the use of Reproductive Management Techniques. Barbados National Agricultural Conference 2006. Christ Church 17-18th July, 2006.
4. Knights, M., Inskeep, K. and Ramboldt, T. (2011). Out-of-Season Breeding Using the EAZI-Breed CIDR-G in Ewes. Appalachian Grazing Conference. March 4-5, 2011, Morgantown, WV.
5. Knights, M.  (2013) Evaluation of Timed Artificial Insemination Protocols in Water Buffaloes in the Tropics. Proceedings of the 49th Annual CFCS Conference, June 30- July 6th 2013, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad
6. Knights, M. Availability and Use of Controlled Internal Drug Releasing (CIDR) Devices in Goats: A review (2013).  Proceedings of the National Goat Conference 2013, September 15th-18th 2013, Greensboro, North Carolina.
7. Knights, M. (2013). Use of Reproductive Biotechnology to Enhance Productivity and Profitability of Farm Animals. The University of Trinidad and Tobago, Omeara, Trinidad, June 27th, 2013
8. Knights, M. (2014). Concepts for Increasing Productivity and Profitability of Meat Goat Operations. Invited Presentation. West Virginia University Extension Service Small Farms Conference, Morgantown, WV, USA. February, 27, 2014.
9. Knights, M. (2014). Efficiency of Small Ruminant Reproductive Management. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Kansas City, MO, USA, July 20-24, 2014. J. Anim. Sci. 92: (Suppl. 2):738.
10. Knights, M. and Lewis, P. (2015). Artificial Insemination in Goats. Appalachian Grazing Conference. March 13-14, 2015, Morgantown, WV, USA.
11. Knights, M. (2015). Beginner Goat Farming, West Virginia University Extension Service Small Farms Conference, Charleston, WV, USA. February, 28, 2015.
12. Knights, M. and Smith, B. (2015).   Parasite Management in Small Ruminants. West Virginia University Extension Service Small Farms Conference, Charleston, WV, USA. February, 28, 2015.
13. Knights, M. (2016). Distinguished Lecture Series:  In the Quest for Protein Self Sufficiency: Research imperatives for enhancing productivity and profitability of livestock operations in the developing tropics: The University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), ECIAF Campus, Trinidad.  March 23rd, 2016.

TECHNICAL PUBLICATIONS & REPORTS (11, 10 since 2010):

1. Singh-Knights, Doolarie and M. Knights (2005).  “Feasibility of Goat Production in West Virginia – A Handbook for Beginners.”  .  West Virginia Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station.  Davis College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Consumer Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV.  October 2005.
2. Singh-Knights, D., Knights, M. (2012). Appraisal of Real Property Market Value for the Grassland Reserve Program (GRP) in West Virginia Report submitted to USDA/Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in fulfillment of Grant/Contract No.: 68-3D47-11-10.
3. Singh-Knights, D., Knights, M. (2012). Appraisal of Real Property Market Value for the Wetland Reserve Program (GRP) in West Virginia Report submitted to USDA/Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in fulfillment of Grant/Contract No.: 68-3D47-11-11.
4. Knights, M. (2012). West Virginia University Station Report. In Proceedings of the 2011 NCERA-214 Coordinating Committee: Increased Efficiency of Sheep Production June 5-8, 2011, South Dakota State University,  Brookings, SD
5. Singh-Knights, D., Faulkner, J., Basden, T. and Knights, M. (2012). Record Keeping Systems for Small and Medium Livestock Farms with Associated ‘Top Ten’ Best Management Practices. WVU-Extension Service Bulletin http://anr.ext.wvu.edu/r/download/124502
6. Singh-Knights, D., Knights, M. (2013). Appraisal of Real Property Market Value for the Wetland Reserve Program (GRP) in West Virginia Report submitted to USDA/Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in fulfillment of Grant/Contract No.: 68-3D47-12-3.
7. Singh-Knights, D., Knights, M. (2013). Appraisal of Real Property Market Value for the Grassland Reserve Program (GRP) in West Virginia Report submitted to USDA/Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in fulfillment of Grant/Contract No.: 68-3D47-11-10.
8. Knights, M. (2013). West Virginia University Station Report. In Proceedings of the 2012 NCERA-214 Coordinating Committee: Increased Efficiency of Sheep Production June 5-8, 2011, Utah State University,  Logan, Utah.
9. Singh-Knights, D., D’Souza, K. and Knights, M. (2014). Flock Management Calendars for Spring-and Fall-Lambing in West Virginia. West Virginia Extension service, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV. February 2014.
10. Knights, M. (2014). West Virginia University Station Report. In Proceedings of the 2013 NCERA-214 Coordinating Committee: Increased Efficiency of Sheep Production June 10-11, 2014, University of Rhode Island, South Kingston, RI.
11. Knights, M. (2015). West Virginia University Station Report. In Proceedings of the 2014 NCERA-214 Coordinating Committee: Increased Efficiency of Sheep Production June 8-9, 2015, Rochester, New York.

BOOKS AND BOOK CHAPTERS (1):

1. Knights, M.  Animal Science Lab Manual: Dubue, IA. (2014), Kendall Hunt Publishing, 90 P. ISBN: 9781465258342