Dr. Michelle Kutzler is a native of Kent, Washington. She graduated from Washington State University with a Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. After graduation, Dr. Kutzler worked in dairy practice in Minnesota for four years before going to Cornell University to pursue a theriogenology residency under the supervision of Dr. Vicki Meyers-Wallen and Dr. Rob Gilbert. Dr. Kutzler stayed on at Cornell University for a PhD under the tutelage of Dr. Peter Nathanielsz. Her thesis research investigated the effects of multiple courses dexamethasone on placental vascular blood flow in sheep. Dr. Kutzler also completed a Master in Business Administration in Organizational Leadership from Oregon State University.

Since 2002, Dr. Kutzler has been at Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon.  Dr. Kutzler teaches numerous courses including Companion Animal Production, Equine Reproduction, Calving School, Mammalian Reproductive Biology, and Hormone Action. Dr. Kutzler also enjoys giving lectures to colleagues and lay audiences. She has published widely in the fields of both large and small animal theriogenology. Dr. Kutzler spends much of her day mentoring undergraduate and graduate research students.

Dr. Kutzler has been an active member of the Society for Theriogenology since 1994 and an active member of the American College of Theriogenologists since 1999. Within the ACT, Dr. Kutzler has served on the Scientific Abstract Committee and the Certifying Examination Committee. Dr. Kutzler is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the AVMA Conference Content Coordinator for Companion Animal Theriogenology. Dr. Kutzler also holds positions in several small ruminant associations: American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners (student chapter advisor, Region 4 Director, Treasurer), Llama Association of North America (President), and Alpaca Owners Association (membership committee). Dr. Kutzler is also on the Scientific Advisory Committee for the Alliance for Contraception in Cats and Dogs and the Chair of Scientific Committee for the Quadrennial International Symposium on Canine and Feline Reproduction, and the Director of Business Operation for the Oregon Women for Higher Education.