He received his BSc (physiology and developmental biology) and MSc (animal science) at the University of Alberta and his PhD (animal physiology) at the University of Guelph. Laarman’s research training is on the interface between nutrition and physiology, focusing on development and dietary adaptation of the ruminant gastrointestinal tract. In previous and current laboratory groups, he studied short-chain fatty acid transport mechanisms and their effect on ruminal acidosis, epithelial integrity, and immune response. His current research program is funded by industry, foundations, and government and focuses on improving nutrient uptake and gut health using feed additives and management strategies during dietary transitions.