Early Careers Symposium - Save the Date
The BSAS Early Careers day will take place on Monday 7th April, the day before the BSAS Annual Conference in beautiful Galway City. A mixture of workshops as well as invited speakers will take place during the day at Galway University campus before particpants head off to a social gathering in the evening.
MARK YOUR DIARY - you do not want to miss!
Gene Editing Farm Animals: The Facts (Conference) [Non-member Rate]
The British Cattle Breeding Conference - ‘The Herd of the Future
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Grassland Systems: Busting the myths on carbon sequestration - Save The Date
Save the date for the Grasslands Webinar which will take place on 6th November at 7:30PM.
Details coming soon.
Fully funded PhD Opportunity CALMS
Plant Ecophysiology Research Group, School of Natural Sciences, Botany Discipline, Trinity College Dublin
Carbon sequestration from Agricultural soils from different Land-uses, Managements and Soil types (CALMS)
Project Background and description
Agriculture dominates the Irish landscape, with ~60% of the total land area devoted to grass-based agriculture for beef and dairy production. However, this type of land use has significant environmental implications, as the agricultural sector accounts for ~30% of national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
These systems provide food for a growing population but need to rapidly develop more sustainable approaches in order to move towards carbon neutrality and to meet emission reduction targets and water quality legislation. Coupled with this there, is a requirement to better understand the carbon and greenhouse gas dynamics of these ecosystems, to determine the drivers of emissions, how these change with variations in management and climate and how rates of carbon sequestration scale in time. This project and the PhD candidate appointed will assess the carbon stocks and fluxes across a range of grasslands ecosystems and will investigate how differences in soil type, drainage status, planting mixtures and nitrogen inputs influence the carbon sequestration potential of these systems.
The main objectives of this project are to:
• Utilise the national agricultural soil carbon observatory to investigate sustainable grassland management practices that balance agricultural production with environmental emissions.
• Derive carbon budgets and assess drivers of carbon uptake and release across a range of grassland ecosystems that represent differences in soil type, drainage status, planting mixtures and nitrogen inputs.
• Capture carbon emission profiles associated with inter-annual climatic variability and management intervention.
• Assess the impacts of long-term management practices and land use transitions on carbon stocks and emissions in agricultural systems.
• Contribute to developing optimised management strategies in these agro-ecosystems to contribute to emissions savings and the pathway to net carbon zero agricultural systems.
Candidate requirements:
• Applications are invited from graduates holding a first or 2.1 class honours degree or M.Sc. in Environmental Sciences, Plant Biology/Botany, Soil Science, Agricultural Science, Atmospheric Physics Biochemistry or related discipline.
• The successful candidate should be practically and technically minded, and interested in using state-of-the-art technology and sensors to measure terrestrial C/GHG dynamics.
• The candidate should be self-motivated, prepared for extensive field-based and laboratory work and someone who enjoys data analysis, writing and communicating/disseminating their work.
• Prior experience in measuring carbon and greenhouse gas dynamics of terrestrial systems or soil based analyses would be advantageous.
• A full, clean Irish/European driving licence and fluency in English are essential.
Award:
The successful candidate will be enrolled for a 48-month (Structured) Research PhD programme in the School of Natural Sciences, Botany Discipline, Trinity College Dublin. The Fellowship provides full EU University fees and a stipend of €25,000 per annum for a duration of four years. Funds for project costs are also provided.
Application deadline: Extended from June 2024 until the position is filled.
Start Date: September 2024
Application Procedure:
Informal enquiries are welcome and should be directed to Dr Matthew Saunders (saundem@tcd.ie) Interested applicants should submit, within a single PDF document, a CV with educational background, transcripts of degree results, list of publications and conference presentations, a short (1–2 page) letter of motivation and contact details for 2 referees submitted directly to Dr. Matthew Saunders (saundem@tcd.ie). The motivation letter should clearly state how the applicant’s research interests and skills relate to the research project outlined above.
Trinity College Dublin is committed to policies, procedures and practices which do not discriminate on grounds such as gender, civil status, family status, age, disability, race, religious belief, sexual orientation or membership of the travelling community. On that basis we encourage and welcome talented people from all backgrounds to join our staff and student body. Trinity’s Diversity Statement can be viewed in full at https://www.tcd.ie/diversity-inclusion/diversity-statement Funding Notes: This project is funded by the Irish Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Project 'Carbon sequestration from Agricultural soils from different Land-uses, Managements and Soil types (CALMS) 2023RP948'.
Conference 2025
Animal Science PhD Opportunity
Université Laval (Québec, Canada) and Agroscope (Posieux, Switzerland).are looking for our next phD student interested in pig nutrition, experiment and modeling.
EU Project Advisors (Climate Knowledge Transfer) – 2 posts
Location: Teagasc, AGRI Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, P91 C996 or Teagasc Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway H65 R718. Other Teagasc locations will be considered at the discretion of Teagasc management. | |
Advisory/Education | |
Salary: Agr Development Officer Grade I with a Salary Scale of €40,080 to €76,519 | |
Closing Date: 06/09/2024 12:00 PM | |
Funded Full Time | |
Job Description
Basic Function:
Teagasc are now seeking to recruit two Advisor’s who will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team on two European-funded projects, focused on climate smart farming and advisory support for famers.
- ClimateFarmDemo is a 7-year, EU funded project seeking to create and activate a European-wide network of demonstration farmers implementing and demonstrating climate smart solutions for a carbon neutral Europe. There are 60 demonstration farmers selected in Ireland, and the project aims to support and advise these farmers to implement and demonstrate appropriate climate smart farming practices. This appointment will be for an indicative duration of up to 40months.
- ClimateSmartAdvisors is a 7-year, EU funded project seeking to mobilize the EU agricultural advisory community, leading to an acceleration of the adoption of climate smart farming practices by the wider farming community across the EU. Advisor capacity will be developed through the establishment of communities of practice, delivery of training events, the development of support materials and the strengthening of links within both the Irish and EU AKIS (Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System). This appointment will be for an indicative duration of up to 66 months.
Both projects are designed to support the acceleration of the uptake of climate mitigation and adaptation measures by EU farmers, with one project focussing on demonstration farmers, and the second project focussed on building the capacity of advisors to support farmers.
The successful candidates will deliver on Teagasc commitments to each project. They will oversee the day-to-day running of all activities related to the projects and take responsibility for milestones and deliverables. They will collaborate with other project partners (across the EU) to ensure successful delivery of the overall project. They will be required to travel to various EU locations for project meetings and activities.
Background:
Teagasc is is the national public body providing integrated research, advisory, education and training services to the Irish agri-food sector; it is a Development Agency of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The Teagasc mission is to provide scientific leadership and support to Irish farmers and food companies in achieving a sustainable food system.
Teagasc is now seeking to recruit two advisors to deliver its commitments to each project. It is important to note that the focus of these projects is to share and exchange existing knowledge and experience amongst stakeholders rather than conducting new research.
These roles will appeal to candidates who wish to apply their knowledge and skills to accelerating the uptake of climate mitigation and adaptation measures by EU advisors and farmers.
Job Objectives
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
- Deliver the Teagasc commitments to the listed projects, including close monitoring of deadlines, milestones and deliverables under the direction of the project leader.
- Specifically for the ClimateFarmDemo project, this will include advising and supporting a number of the demonstration farmers and delivering demonstration events;
- Specifically for the ClimateSmartAdvisors project, this will include the establishment, facilitation and management of up to ten communities of practice (within Ireland), including advisor recruitment to participate in these.
- Coordinate the activities of Teagasc personnel and project partners contributing to tasks where Teagasc has a commitment ensuring all individual tasks are delivered on time in coordination with the rest of the project.
- Collaborate with the overall project team to ensure the timely delivery of challenging project objectives.
- Participate in training for project partners and also contribute to both the design and delivery of training to project partners as required.
- Participate and contribute to project activities including project management, project communications and project networking.
- Represent Teagasc at project meetings (this will involve some travel to various EU locations).
- Maintain a high profile for the project through various communications activities, including the dissemination of project outputs, to a variety of audiences.
- Complete all reporting activities associated with the project.
- Assist Teagasc management and administrative staff in achieving good governance and risk management through co-operation and adherence to administrative procedures and practices, including financial management of the project budget.
- Undertake other tasks as required to fulfil Teagasc commitments to work packages.
Additional Duties and Responsibilities:
- To assist Teagasc in meeting the commitments of the Quality Customer Service Charter and Action Plan
- Actively participate in the annual business planning and Performance Management Development System (PMDS) processes
- Fully co-operate with the provisions made for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of themselves, fellow staff and non-Teagasc staff and co-operate with management in enabling Teagasc to comply with legal obligations. This includes full compliance with the responsibilities outlined in the Safety Statement.
- Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time
* This job specification is intended as a guide to the general range of duties and is intended to be neither definitive nor restrictive. It will be reviewed from time to time with the post holder.
Skills Requirement
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Essential |
Desirable |
Qualifications |
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Skills |
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Knowledge |
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Behavioural Competencies |
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Other |
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Eligibility
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Note: The ‘essential’ qualifications, knowledge, skills and behavioural competencies outlined above are ‘must-have’ which will be used in the selection process.
Note: Alternative location(s) may be considered solely at the discretion of Teagasc management.
ED&F Man
Funding Call: SEFARI Fellowship on Mapping Land Use and Natural Capital Models and Research in Scotland
SEFARI Gateway is delighted to provide support for a new Fellowship in collaboration with Scottish Government. We are seeking an individual researcher or small team of researchers to undertake a mapping of land use models and related research in Scotland.
Background
The Scottish Government’s Rural Environment Science and Analytical Services (RESAS) Division, working with the Chief Scientific Adviser for Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture (CSA-ENRA), funds a variety of different research organisations to deliver outputs under ENRA policy agendas that meet the needs of policymakers on issues relating to agriculture and the environment. This includes research funded under the ENRA Research Portfolio’s Strategic Research Programme, Underpinning National Capacity, Centres of Expertise and through call-down to Strategic Portfolio and non-Portfolio research providers. CivTech projects commissioned via ENFOR and ARE, as well as research commissioned by non-departmental public bodies and executive agencies of the Scottish Government (e.g., NatureScot, FLS, SEPA) are also in scope.
Specific to Land Use and Natural Capital, there are a variety of different modelling products being developed to support Scottish Government commissioned via the above routes, that each have distinct functions and requirements. However, understanding the breadth of tools and integrating them into cohesive messaging for policymakers is challenging, and there are opportunities to optimise how existing modelling capacity is used and communicated to deliver useful outputs that feed in directly to Scottish Government policy development. There are also models being developed that while not directly land use or natural capital focused may impact on land and may be less widely “seen” within land use and natural capital policy spaces.
The knowledge gap of how available tools work together, and what inputs they require to function, limits the ability of Scottish Government to understand the capacity to develop strategic cross-cutting scenario-based modelling products that have been developed for other devolved nations (e.g., ERAMMP in Wales: Integrated Monitoring Platform (IMP) | ERAMMP). To deliver maximum value for money for the taxpayer, it is essential that Scottish Government understands and is capable of effectively using the wealth of available tools relating to land use and natural capital being developed.
The Fellowship Aims
A SEFARI Fellow would map out the various land use (including agriculture and natural capital) models produced with Scottish Government funding or supporting Scottish Government, enabling RESAS and the CSA-ENRA to identify gaps in existing capacity and better strategically plan for an integrated modelling approach for use internally in Government. In so doing the work will need to incorporate recent work mapping natural capital and land use tools, and evaluate the viability of more model integration.
Approach
The successful applicant(s) will iterate a final approach in agreement with RESAS and SEFARI Gateway.
Required Outputs:
- A mapping product that visualises the various land use and natural capital models produced for Scotland (either through the SRP, CoEs, Underpinning National Capacity, NDPBs, Executive Agencies, etc.), including their inputs/outputs, their impacts on policy, and highlighting synergies/conflicts across models. Additionally, the models will need to be defined by their scale/resolution, realism, accuracy, and compatibility with other models.
- What constitutes land use and natural capital is quite broad, and RESAS want to keep the flexibility open to make connections across research areas, particularly as interventions related to natural capital and land use will have population, employment, and other social impacts. As a starting point, the DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) Net Zero Systems Tool provides a useful visual summary of the bulk of topics broadly considered under land use: NetZeroSystemsTool (cbas.cloud)
- A report highlighting the main findings of the work, including gaps in the models from a land use and natural capital perspective and areas of improvement for cross-working across SEFARI, other Portfolio partners and RESAS. This report should include an evaluation of the current blockers in Scotland to developing an integrated modelling platform that is routinely used to answer policy questions and propose alternative data sharing or governance structures to better support model integration.
- Depending on the outcomes of the work, a workshop to bring together stakeholders supporting land use and natural capital projects to better facilitate cross-working and highlight opportunities for improved integrated working to deliver policy outcomes.
- A case study for the SEFARI Gateway Website.
Resources:
- The Fellowship supports up to a maximum of 28 days FTE (funding up to a limit of £18,000) for an individual or team of (maximum 3) researchers.
- Additional funding (to a limit of £5,000) will be provided (subject to separate costing) to support workshops or other engagements (including travel and subsistence in conducting the Fellowship).
Duration:
- The deadline for final report from the Fellowship is 15th December, 2024.
- The distribution of time on the project will be jointly agreed by the Fellow(s), Scottish Government and SEFARI Gateway.
Practicalities
The details of the final Fellowship work plan will be developed, and agreed, between the successful Fellow(s) and a project support team from SEFARI and Scottish Government. There is a maximum of 28 days available for project delivery from commencement – the exact number of days, their timing, and their pattern through the working week will be discussed but the project must report by 15th December 2024.
Funding (up to a maximum of £18,000) will be available to cover all salary costs. Please note that costs should be submitted net of VAT recovered by the applicant. Applicants should seek advice on appropriate VAT treatment of proposed funding. Travel and subsistence and to support any workshop costs will be funded separate to the FTE costs and up to a maximum of £5,000.
A Fellowship Support Team, composed of RESAS, CSA-ENRA, SEFARI/SEFARI Gateway will assist with links and access to information; help guide analysis and presentation and on workshop creation.
Further Details
- The central focus of this Fellowship is to the ENRA Portfolio. The Fellowship is open to applicants from staff:
- from any SEFARI Organisation
- ENRA Portfolio Centres of Expertise
- Staff within any UK Higher Education Institution (or Research Institute)
- Please note, you do not need to have been previously funded by Scottish Government via the Portfolio to qualify for SEFARI Gateway funding.
- Applicants must have the support of their organisation
- Sign-off should be at the level deemed appropriate for each organisation (please talk to your line manager), but Directors/Chief Executives of your Institute (or University school as appropriate) should be made aware.
- The taking of such an opportunity should not result in a candidate going beyond the end of any agreed contract they may have with their employer.
- It is recognised that individual circumstances are different and support levels will vary depending on salary, distance from the opportunity and so on – the support level will be kept under review to try and maintain a fair and equitable competition and process. The organisation of the successful fellow(s) should not expect to meet any costs beyond that paid for by SEFARI Gateway.
- The successful candidate(s) will be expected to contribute to relevant meetings or outputs for the project partners as the Fellowship progresses and to generate knowledge exchange related content for SEFARI Gateway (support will be offered on this).
Applications
Applications should be made to: info@sefari.scot and should include a cover letter (two pages of detail on your suitability or that of the team) and a two-page CV (or up to 6 pages for a team). Decisions on who to Interview will be based solely on this letter and CV(s).
The cover letter should include:
- Why are you interested in this opportunity and what you would hope to get from it?
- What skills and experience you would bring to this role
- How you would use your current work to underpin the project
- What you would do to take the learning back into your organisation.
Team-based applications should demonstrate how they propose to manage individual contributions to satisfy the degree of multi-disciplinary integration required and clearly identify a Fellowship Team Lead.
The deadline for applications is 5pm on 28th August 2024 with interviews to be held within two weeks following from that date.
If you have any questions on this, or any general aspect of the SEFARI Fellowship scheme, please contact Michelle Wilson Chalmers, Manager, SEFARI Gateway at: michelle.wilson@sefari.scot
DAERA High-Level Science Advisory Group
Date published: 24 July 2024
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) welcomes applications to the High-Level Science Advisory Group from a range of scientific backgrounds to provide expert independent science advice and challenge across DAERA’s full remit.
The Candidate Information Booklet, which includes responsibilities and selection criteria, Application Form and Equality Monitoring Form are listed below.
The closing date for receipt of applications is noon on 22nd August 2024.
Application of Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) to Measure the Composition of Mare’s Colostrum and Milk
This study was shortlisted for the 2023 Thesis of the Year Award and completed as part of Laura Dayot’s studies for a BSc Equine Science from University of Limerick.
Summarised by: Georgie Smith
Take away message: NIRS offers an accessible and accurate way to assess crude protein and pH of colostrum from the mare.
Introduction and aims
Foals are born immunodeficient and rely on immunoglobulins provided through ingestion of colostrum to kick start their immune system. Passive transfer of immunity from mare to foal via colostrum must happen within the first 24 hours of life as, without it, foals are highly vulnerable to disease and their chance of survival is low. Therefore, ability to assess colostrum (and milk) quality quickly and easily is of utmost importance to breeders/owners. A key measure of quality is protein concentration, specifically immunoglobulin G (IgG) but quality can vary greatly and be influenced by mare diet, age, breed and parity. NIRS offers a way to quantify various components of colostrum and milk with immediate results, offering opportunities for breeders/owners to step in if needing to provide any supplementary nutrients to mare or foal.
The aim of this study was to use NIRS and develop calibration models to measure crude protein (CP), non-protein nitrogen (NPN), true protein (TP), and pH in colostrum and milk from the mare.
Methods
Reference data were collected using traditional chemistry techniques such as Kjeldahl and protein precipitation which served as a base line to develop calibration models for the NIRS results. Equations were selected for calibration based on lowest standard error cross validation value and variance ratio. To ascertain how valid the NIRS results were, correlations were used to compare to the reference data and assessed via R2 values as per the table below:
Table 1. Summary of the values which determine correlation coefficient (R2) ranges and their indications, (Source: Williams and Norris 1987; Manley 2014; Ikoyi and Younge 2022) Correlation Coefficient (R2) |
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Calibration |
Validation |
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R2 Value |
Indication |
R2 Value |
Indication |
0.75–1.0 |
Acceptable calibration equation |
> 0.95 |
Excellent, favourable |
0.30–0.74 |
Useful for differentiating |
0.9–0.95 |
Good |
< 0.30 |
Not useful |
0.8–0.9 |
Quite good |
0.7–0.8 |
Quite useful |
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0.5 – 0.7 |
Acceptable |
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< 0.5 |
Unreliable |
Key findings
Colostrum had a much higher crude protein content than milk (p<0.001) with similar pH which was expected, given the literature. Age impacted colostrum crude protein content with significant differences between the 5-9 years and 15-20 years categories (p<0.05); the more aged group having lower crude protein values. Interestingly, significant impact of age was not seen in crude protein content of milk.
NIRS proved to be accurate for predicting crude protein and pH of colostrum, and acceptable for crude protein in milk but other parameters require improvement. Milk often gave poorer predictions than colostrum, likely due to increased water content as water will influence the NIR waves.
Conclusion
NIRS may offer a reliable tool to assess quality of colostrum and milk but further investigation is needed before it would be likely to replace current methods
The Animal AgTech Innovation Summit - One Health in Meat And Dairy
The Animal AgTech Innovation Summit brings together over 250 animal agtech business leaders, innovators and investors to Europe. Join us for an exciting two days of exceptional networking and discovery of opportunities for innovation and investment in animal health, nutrition and precision technologies.
We are dlighted to offer BSAS members a 10% to attend. SImply use discount code BSAS10 to get your discount!
Topics to be covered:
Methane Reduction Strategies
Forging industry collaborations to maximise environmental impact
Antimicrobial Stewardship
Minimising interventions through enhanced nutrition and preventative healthcare
Precision Livestock Farming
Harnessing AI to create actionable insights from farmyard data
Breeding & Genetics
Leveraging genomic insights to raise resilient and productive livestock
EUDR & Carbon Accounting
Implementing traceability and validation processes to align with forthcoming regulations
Advancing Biosecurity
Curtailing zoonotic diseases through innovative diagnostics, vaccines and therapeutics
Optimising Nutrition
Enhancing performance and disease-resistance through feed additives and novel feeds
Regenerative Agriculture
Implementing new strategies for biodiversity preservation and resource management
Carbon Markets and Insetting
Reducing emissions and rewarding farmers for climate action
Investment Strategies
Identifying high-impact, high-return opportunities in animal health and nutrition
Gene editing farm animals: the facts
Introduction
Gene editing (which is one of the techniques being considered within the Precision Breeding Act) is at the forefront of agricultural innovation, offering techniques to alter the DNA of plants and animals, in a manner that is not distinguishable from normal genetic changes which happen in nature.
This method, notably utilising gene-editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9, enables targeted genetic modifications that mirror natural variations achievable through traditional breeding. Unlike genetic modification, which involves inserting genes from one species into another unrelated species, gene editing introduces traits that could be naturally selected for over time. Increasing resistance to disease is one of the goals for use of the technique that has been progressed. While this has the potential for a major improvement in animal health, there is the possibility of unintended negative outcomes for other aspects of health, functionality and welfare that need to be explored.
The potential practical applications of precision breeding, including gene editing, are vast, particularly in enhancing food production by improving traits such as nutritional content and disease resistance in crops and livestock. However, there are concerns with regard to precision breeding techniques, including gene editing, and this conference will explore the multifaceted aspects of these technologies, with a focus on gene editing, from scientific advancements and global perspectives to animal welfare and ethical considerations.
Conference Objectives
The ‘Gene editing farm animals’ conference aims to:
- Explore Scientific Advances: Delve into the latest precision breeding, and especially, gene-editing technologies and their applications in agriculture.
- Examine Ethical Considerations: Discuss the animal welfare and ethical implications and considerations for farm animals, ensuring responsible innovation and governance for the same.
- Understand Global and EU Perspectives: Analyse the broader landscape of precision breeding policies and practices globally and within the EU and note their impact and any lessons learnt.
- Engage with Farmers' Perspectives: Provide insights into how precision breeding, and especially gene editing, is perceived and utilized by farmers.
- Facilitate In-Depth Discussions: Conduct panel discussions to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders.
Programme
09:00 Registration
Part 1: Chaired by Elizabeth Magowan | AFBI
10:00 Welcome
Elizabeth Magowan | AFBI
10:10 Session 1: Precision Breeding - Legislation
An overview of current and proposed UK legislation
Speaker: Alexander (AJ) Gilbert | Defra
10:35 Session 2: The Science
A comprehensive overview of the science behind precision breeding and especially gene editing in farm animals, including current research and technological advancements.
Speaker: Dr Simon Lillico | Roslin Institute
11:00 Session 3: Ethical Considerations in Precision Breeding
Exploring the moral and ethical issues surrounding the use of precision breeding and especially gene-editing technologies in agriculture.
Speaker: Professor Madeleine Campbell | Nottingham University School of Veterinary Medicine and Science
11:30 Break
11:50 Session 4: Animal Health and Welfare
Exploring the potential for positive and negative impacts on animal health and welfare, and methods that could be implemented to safeguard animal welfare
Speaker: Professor Marie Haskell | SRUC
12:10 Session 5: The Broader EU/Global Landscape
An analysis of the regulatory and policy frameworks guiding precision breeding in the EU and globally, highlighting differences and commonalities.
Speaker: Ana Granados Chapatte | European Forum of Farm Animal Breeders
12:30 Session 6: Case Study
Insights into how precision breeding, and especially gene editing, is being adopted by farmers and industry in some countries, including potential benefits and challenges from their viewpoint.
Speaker: Craig Lewis | Pig Improvement Company
13:00 – Lunch
Part 3: Chaired by Gareth Arnott | QUB
Session 7: Panel Discussion on Precision Breeding
A detailed panel discussion featuring experts from various fields to address pressing questions such as will gene editing be essential to feed a growing population sustainably? Are gene edited animals a bigger risk to One Health/One welfare? Facilitating debate and knowledge sharing among attendees.
Panel Members:
Sarah Ison | Compassion in World Farming
Annie Williams | Business Development Manager, UK Agri-Tech Centre
Hugh Broom | NFU Livestock Board East Chair, Farmer
Alan Mileham | Genetic Visions
15:30 – Close
Conclusion
The ‘Gene editing farm animals’ one day Conference is set to be an informative and engaging event for scientists, industry professionals, and policymakers. It is designed to provide scientific facts which enhance the understanding and knowledge of precision breeding and especially gene editing, in farm animals, among the wider industry, policy and scientific communities. By examining the scientific, ethical, animal welfare and practical dimensions of precision breeding, the conference aims to promote sustainable and innovative agricultural practices and enhance awareness of this area of science so that the various actors across the food supply change can make better informed decisions on this topic.
Join us, in Manchester, on 7th November 2024, to be part of this pivotal event hosted by the British Society of Animal Science.
50-GENE
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Ruminant Nutrition
Job Description
This role offers the chance to work on a research project focused on developing resilient, sustainable grassland management strategies to meet the UK's net zero targets. The project involves academic, research, and industry partners, aiming to transform UK grasslands for net zero emissions, improved soil health, biodiversity, and economic benefits, supporting the agricultural transition to sustainability.
The work at the University of Reading will assess the nutritive value of alternative forages for ruminants (e.g., multispecies, legume-rich, tannin-containing) and their effects on productivity, efficiency, and methane emissions in dairy cows and beef cattle. The PDR will design and execute experiments, manage animal trials, and collect and analyse samples. Responsibilities include data collation, statistical analysis, conducting literature reviews, and preparing reports and presentations. The PDR will develop and manage research timelines, collaborate with researchers and stakeholders, and organise project meetings. Administrative duties include maintaining records, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The role also involves disseminating research findings, participating in knowledge exchange activities, and engaging with the academic community and the public. Professional development, continuous learning, networking, and contributing to new research projects and grant proposals are key aspects of the role, along with teaching and supervising students in animal science topics. The PDR will join the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, which has a global outlook and an international reputation for education and research. The School offers a welcoming, supportive, and progressive environment for career development and includes a learning and research community from over 40 nations.
You should have:
- PhD in a relevant discipline or be near completion.
- Strong interest in animal nutrition, livestock production, and mitigating its environmental footprint.
- Ability to work with animals in research environments, collect relevant data, and perform laboratory analysis of feeds or biofluids.
- Proficiency in analysing experimental data using mixed-effects, repeated-measures, and multivariate models.
- Experience in writing and publishing papers in peer-reviewed journals and communicating research to a wide audience.
- Knowledge of ruminant production, nutrition, and physiology related to feed efficiency and methane production.
- Experience in large animal trials, laboratory analyses, and statistical data analysis.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with attention to detail and strong organisational skills.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision, taking initiative, and maintaining a collaborative and respectful workplace attitude.
- Willingness to travel nationally and internationally.
Closing date: 18/09/2024
Interviews will be held: 02/10/2024
Contact Name: Professor Sokratis Stergiadis
Contact Job Title: Professor of Animal Science
Contact Email address: s.stergiadis@reading.ac.uk
Alternative Contact Name: Dr Laurence Smith
Alternative Contact Job Title: Lecturer in Agriculture Business Management
Alternative Contact Email address: l.g.smith@reading.ac.uk
Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants should ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement under the PBS. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and is a Diversity Champion for Stonewall, the leading LGBT+ rights organisation. Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Burleigh Dodds Science Publishing Offer BSAS Members Discount off New Publication
Burleigh Dodds Science Publishing are delighted to announce the publication of their new title, Advances in pig nutrition, edited by Emeritus Professor Julian Wiseman, University of Nottingham, UK.
Pig nutrition faces many challenges, including the need to meet the changing requirements of animals as they grow whilst minimising environmentally-damaging nutrient losses. Additionally, there is an emerging consensus that the sector must seek alternative, more sustainable feed sources which have a reduced impact on the environment.
This new book provides a comprehensive overview of the range of research addressing these challenges and book addresses recent advances in understanding feed intake and feed formulation, focussing on advances in understanding pig nutritional requirements and ensuring feed safety.
The book also reviews the role of feed additives in optimising pig nutrition, including amino acids, prebiotics and exogenous enzymes.
Find out more about this new book here.
*Special Offer*
Receive 20% off your purchase of the book – as well as any other published Pig Science titles in our series – using code PIGS20 via the BDS website. Discount code expires 30th September 2024.
Gene Editing Farm Animals: The Facts (Conference) [BSAS Member Rate]
Nutrition Futures 2024
Link to the event and registration: Nutrition Futures 2024 | The Nutrition Society
This two-day event is for animal and human nutrition students and graduates, and will provide them with the opportunity to:
- Meet other students.
- Make new friends and contacts.
- Present your own research findings in a friendly and supportive environment.
- Get professional feedback on your own CV.
- Ask those burning questions of our inspirational careers panel.
- Improve your job-hunting strategy.
- Learn how to stand out from the crowd.
Day One
Day Two
- Animal - Eva Lewis, Head of Food Innovation at Humanativ
- Sports - Alice Oliver, UKSI and Reading Football Club
- Industry - Dr. Holly Neill, Science Officer at Yakult UK & Ireland
- Academia - Professor Mary Ward, Professor of Nutrition and Dietetics, Ulster University, (Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health)
- Public Health & policy - Natalie Hickman, RNutr, Private Secretary to the Chief Medical Officer, DHSC
- Non-profit - Dr. Glenys Jones RNutr, Deputy Chief Executive, Association for Nutrition
An Investigation into Modern Equine Management Practices and Their Impact on The Prevalence of Equine Agonistic Behaviours.
Author of the dissertation: Darcey Bowser, Duchy College
Summarised by: Dr. Viola Farci, SRUC
Key takeaway message: Horses’ agonistic behaviour is associated with management practices such as access to roughage, the presence of a routine, turn-out time, and enclosure size. An optimal management of these practices can positively contribute to the horse’s welfare and behaviour.
Introduction and aims:
Agonistic behaviours including aggressive, defensive and submissive behaviours can occur as a result of human action and/or management factors. It emerged from a survey conducted in 2009, that unwanted equine behaviours were a primary factor leading to their abandonment or rehoming due to the risks posed to both humans and horses.
To effectively manage horses in a domestic environment, is essential to understand their evolutionary history, wild behaviours and motivations. In the wild, horses graze and roam freely in social groups for most of the day while domestic horses, especially within competition environment, often face restricted movement, limited grazing time, and imposed social structures, contrasting with their natural instincts.
Such management practices can result in a range of behavioural and health problems including but not limited to stereotypic behaviours, colics and weight loss. Furthermore, these limitations may contribute to elevated aggression levels, resulting in a greater frequency of injuries. The occurrence of aggressive behaviours seen in interspecific (horse to human) and intraspecific (horse to horse) interactions, is often associated with poor levels of welfare. At present, a standardised equine quality of life assessment framework is lacking, therefore, developing a behaviour-based system to accurately assess equine emotional states is vital. To do so, identifying the factors contributing to the prevalence of these behaviours is essential.
The aim of the study was to investigate the current modern management practices and how they contribute to the prevalence of equine agonistic behaviour in the UK.
Methods
A questionnaire comprising 42 standardised closed-ended questions was distributed online via several social media groups, collecting 428 responses. The questions gathered information on:
- owner and equine demographics
- horse management practices
- equine behaviour
Data was statistically analysed using a Chi-squared test on Minitab.
Key findings
The most prevalent directed agonistic behaviours reported were pawing (13.7%), nipping (10.6%), pushing (9.2%) and bite threat (8.5%) whilst the most common intra-specific behaviours were bite threat (27.7%), approach (26.8%), ears back (26.8%), herding (21.1%), kick threat (20.4%), chasing (16.8%), nipping (16.6%) and biting (10.2%). The association between management practices and agonistic behaviours is summarised in the table below:
Table 1 showing the management practices associated with agonistic behaviours (human directed and intraspecific).
|
Human directed |
Intra-specific |
Access to roughage |
Yes |
NA |
Routine presence |
No |
Yes |
Turnout time |
No |
Discordant results |
Social Deprivation |
No |
No |
Turnout group |
No |
Yes |
Enclosure size |
Yes |
No |
Turnout area type |
No |
NA |
Stabling arrangements |
No |
NA |
Yes= P<0.05
No=P>0.05
NA= not applicable
Conclusion :
In summary, this study identified some common practices that influence the equine agonistic behaviour, highlighting the need for optimising the management of domestic horses to ensure better welfare. Factors such as turn-out time, presence of a set routine and enclosure size significantly affect the agonistic behaviour of horses and need to be considered carefully.
The impact of puzzle feeders and water bowl raisers as feline enrichment to combat food abstinence – the detriment of isolation
This study was shortlisted for the 2023 Thesis of the Year Award and completed as part of Winter Drake-Wilkes’ studies for a BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare from Abingdon and Witney College.
This study focused on a much under researched area: the welfare impacts of cats held in isolation units as part of the admission process at a rescue centre. The literature review shows that cats entering these situations are typically already showing signs of anxiety and fearfulness, as the vast majority of cats relinquished to rescues are reported to have problem behaviours. Under these conditions cats typically show one of two behavioural patterns, with some cats showing an ‘active’ response with frustration and often escape related behaviours shown, and the others a ‘passive’ response with withdrawal and a decrease in normal behaviours shown. Of particular issue within the second group of cats, the ‘passive’ responders is reduced food intake likely due to anxiety, and therefore the goal of this study was to examine two different types of enrichment and evaluate their ability to increase feed intakes.
The value of enrichment has been demonstrated in a multitude of different captive species and can be a valuable tool to help improve the experience of animals, especially in stressful situations. But enrichment must be carefully chosen to ensure its relevance and usefulness to the species and situation – therefore this study ensured all other environmental factors remained the same and examined if the addition of either a water bowl raiser or a puzzle feeder would improve feed intakes in isolated cats. In total 14 cats of both sexes across a broad age and breed range were used, seven tested the raised water bowls, and seven the puzzle feeders. Initially a 3-day standard control period took place when feed intakes and behaviours were monitored before the enrichment item was added, following this the cats were monitored for four days whilst the enrichment remained in their pens.
The results showed a significant increase in feed intakes and feeding-related behaviours when the puzzle feeder was used, whereas the water bowl raiser made no difference to these factors. Feeding based enrichment is likely to stimulate natural predatory behaviours for cats and therefore may have a positive impact on their welfare, and as demonstrated here achieved the goal of increasing feed intakes. The raising of a water bowl seems less biologically relevant and highlights the need to consider the behaviours changed by introducing enrichment – I would suggest that increasing the height of a water bowl is not truly enrichment and this links to the lack of change in behaviours. Further research considering the most optimal type of puzzle feeder would be highly beneficial as many forms of this enrichment exist, and it would also be interesting to investigate individual responses and the link between more nervous cats and how effective enrichment is.
This research took place in the Denham branch of the RSPCA and all of the cats that took place in the studies were later successfully adopted!
Written by Dr Holly Vickery, Harper Adams University.
Nia Lloyd
Neal Folliard
BSAS News July 2024
Northern Ireland Minister announces launch of the recruitment competition to establish a new high Level Science Advisory Group
The group will comprise of a Chairperson and up to nine Members and will advise on the development of science and evidence-based policies across the department’s remit.
Minister Muir said: “DAERA puts science at the heart of policy and delivery and independent expert advice from the High-Level Science Advisory Group will be central to that vision.
“The expertise from the High-Level Science Advisory Group will be an important resource to help DAERA access, interpret and understand the full range of relevant scientific information used in the development of evidence-based policies across my Department’s scientific remit.”
He added: “I fully recognise that the successful delivery of DAERA’s policy, operational and regulatory responsibilities are of fundamental importance to the environmental, economic and social well-being of Northern Ireland and its population.”
Background
The HLSAG is a new expert science advisory Group which will deliver independent, high-level, cross cutting, strategic advice and proportionate challenge to DAERA’s Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA) to help assure the scientific evidence used in DAERA’s policy development and delivery is relevant, fit-for purpose and impartial.
The HLSAG has a purely advisory role and does not direct any research expenditure or hold any statutory responsibilities.
How to Apply
We are operating the Guaranteed Interview Scheme in this competition for candidates with a disability.
Details on the positions, including responsibilities and selection criteria are set out in the Candidate Information Booklet.
Further information and application packs for these appointments are available from the DAERA High-Level Science Advisory Group Application Pack page or by emailing HLSAGsecretariat@daera-ni.gov.uk.
Closing Date
The closing date for receipt of applications is noon on 22nd August 2024.
It is expected the appointments will be from February 2025 for a term of three years.
Equality of Opportunity
DAERA is committed to the principles of appointments based on merit with independent assessment, openness and transparency of process. DAERA is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications regardless of gender, age, marital status, disability, religion, ethnic origin, political opinion, sexual orientation or whether or not you have dependants.
With women, young people, people with disabilities and people from different racial groups and ethnic minority backgrounds currently under-represented, applications from these groups are particularly welcome
BSAS 2025 Supporting livestock’s role in a global society
Early Career Day | 7th April 2025 | University of Galway
BSAS 2025 | 8th-10th April 2025 | Galway Bay Hotel, Galway, Ireland
An overview of the BSAS 2025 conference programme will be available soon
Abstracts and Proceedings
Submit your Abstract before 18th November 2024.
animal - science proceedings | Abstract Guidance
BSAS 2025 proceedings will be available to delegates attending the conference and then available, open access, via:
Watch 2024 Sessions
SPONSORSHIP EXHIBITORS PARTNERS
Please contact Maggie Mitchell if you are interesting in sponsoring or exhibiting at BSAS 2025. Last year attracted one of the largest delegate and sponsor turnouts in many years. We are working hard to ensure BSAS 2025 in Galway in as successful so get on board early and benefit from the full marketing campaign.
Teagasc/BSAS Dairy Calf-to-Beef International Conference
ABSTRACT SUBMISSION - CLOSES 30TH AUGUST 2024
Click below for guidelines around submitting abstracts.
Teagasc with the support of the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) and ABP are hosting an International Technical Conference in Ireland on the 16th, and 17th of October 2024 focusing on the production of beef from the dairy herd.
Click here to book your ticket!
In recent years there has been a major increase in research efforts to address challenges around the production of beef from the dairy herd, including the development of a number of large-scale joint initiatives with industry partners.
The Dairy Calf-to-Beef International Conference will provide a platform for the dissemination of the latest results from these studies, as well as updates on state of the art technological advances in dairy-beef production, internationally.
In addition, this conference will provide an opportunity for delegates to learn about new innovations to promote sustainability within the sector and to underpin the future viability of dairy and beef sectors.
Leading national and international scientists will compare:
- intensive concentrate-based and pasture-based dairy-beef systems and their impact on financial and environmental sustainability;
- the impact of new developments in beef cattle genetics targeted for use in the dairy herd;
- nutrition of dairy-beef calves in early life;
- health of dairy-beef calves in intensive and pasture-based systems as well as
- measures to support better vertical integration of the dairy-beef industry.
PROGRAMME
Wednesday 16th October
09.00 - 09.45 Registration
09.45 - 10.00 Conference opening
10.00 - 12.00 Dairy calf-to-beef production systems
12.00 - 13.00 Lunch and poster viewing
13.00 - 17.00 Field trip (Johnstown Castle and ABP Demonstration Farm)
19.30 - late Gala dinner
Thursday 17th October
08.30 - 10.30 Breeding and reproduction
10.30 - 11.15 Coffee break and poster viewing
11.15 - 13.15 Calf nutrition – birth to yearling
13.15 - 14.00 Lunch
14.00 - 16.00 Health and welfare
16.00 - 17.00 Panel discussion on vertical integration
17.00 - 17.15 Close of conference
REGISTRATION
Registration fee:
Delegate rate: €250
Student rate: €200
Registration fee includes attendance at the two day event, lunch on both days, tea/coffee breaks, gala dinner and proceedings booklet.
For queries contact Ellen Fitzpatrick / Margie Egan
Ellen.fitzpatrick@teagasc.ie
Margie.egan@teagasc.ie
Closing date of registration is Friday 11th October at 12 noon
BSAS Trustee Dr Steven Morrison has been awarded an Honorary Professorship by the Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS) at Queen’s University Belfast.
Honorary Professorship acknowledges AFBI expert’s contribution to advancing sustainable agriculture
Date published: 28 June 2024
Dr Steven Morrison has been awarded an Honorary Professorship by the Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS) at Queen’s University Belfast. Steven receives the prestigious title in recognition of his distinguished research in driving forward sustainable agriculture.
![Prof Steven Morrison Prof Steven Morrison](https://www.afbini.gov.uk/sites/afbini.gov.uk/files/styles/inline/public/images/SMorr%20Honorary%20Prof%201200.png?itok=YerB_OiL×tamp=1719589261)
A Queen’s graduate, throughout his career Steven has held numerous scientific posts in AFBI, as well as industry, including Head of Livestock Production Science, Livestock Genetics Improvement Manager and Youngstock Research Scientist.
In addition, Dr Morrison is responsible for the strategic direction, funding and operation of one of AFBI’s largest research groups and, through his own research, works directly with government, industry and academia to advise on policy and advance the design and delivery of high impact science.
Commenting on the accolade, Professor Nigel Scollan, Director of Institute for Global Food Security said: “I am delighted that Steven has been granted an Honorary Professorship. This reflects the major contribution Steven has delivered in addressing major challenges in agriculture through research and education. It also reflects the major strengths that have been further strengthened between Queen’s and AFBI.
“Steven is a central catalyst in pushing forward the science in Queen’s-AFBI Alliance and helps to strengthen our position in delivering solutions, both at local and global levels, to challenges in agriculture.”
On receiving the Professorship, Steven said: “It is a great honour and privilege to be awarded an Honorary Professorship at Queen’s. I am deeply grateful and know this has only been possible through the incredible support of colleagues through the years.
“I have been fortunate to have worked alongside key researchers at Queen’s University, including Professor Sharon Huws, and their teams of excellent scientists, and co-supervised many Queen’s PhD students as part of the Queen’s-AFBI Alliance. I very much look forward to further strengthening this collaboration in the delivery of impactful, world-leading science.”
A huge congratulations to Steven from all of his fellow Trustees and friends at BSAS.
The 75th EAAP Annual Meeting 1/5 September 2024 - Florence, Italy
The 75th annual meeting of the European Association for Animal Production, that will take place in Firenze (Florence) from September 1st to September 5th 2024.
The general topic of this Congress will be “Global quality: environment, animals, food“. Different sessions will be organized and jointly organized between the eleven EAAP Study Commissions to cover various areas of knowledge related to animal science, such as genetics, nutrition, physiology, animal health and welfare, precision livestock farming, horses, pigs, insects, livestock farming, cattle, sheep and goat.
Firenze: one of the main art cities of Italy
An outstanding richness of monuments, historical sites, museums and churches represents the cultural and artistic heritage of Firenze, considered the capital of the Renaissance. Firenze is the capital of the region of Tuscany, placed in the heart of Italy, and known worldwide for its beautiful hilly agricultural Landscapes, the country mansions of the region of Chianti, the wines, the olive oil, the autochthonous giant beef cattle “Chianina”, the “Fiorentina” steak. These products represent excellences of the Italian agriculture. Social events during the EAAP congress, hosted on some of the most spectacular venues of the City, will offer the opportunity to directly taste several of these products.
Global quality: environment, animals, food
The general theme of the congress is “Global quality: Environment, Animals, Food”. The congress will consist in several parallel scientific sessions where updated research results covering the whole domain of the Animal Science will be presented and discussed together with the presentation of main ongoing research projects.
With his geographical position, Italy exhibits a great variety of environments, ranging from Alpine to Mediterranean climate. This peculiarity is reflected in the structure of its agriculture. Intensive dairy and beef cattle, pigs and poultry farms are typical of the Northern district. Buffalo farming can be found in Latium and Campania, in the Central-Southern part of Italy. Small ruminant systems characterize Southern Italy and the two main islands: Sicily and Sardinia. This richness results in a number of biodiverse livestock farming systems, which generate high-quality products, in many cases certified as PDO or PGI. The products are expression of local genetic resources and of the Italian cultural heritage and they contribute to define the “Made in Italy” brand. Some of these production systems will be the target of technical tours organized at the end of technical sessions.
BullNet Doctoral Network position: Predicting and improving cryotolerance in bull semen
Job Information
Organisation/Company - Institute for Reproduction of Farm Animals Schönow
Research Field - Biological sciences » Biological engineering
Researcher Profile - First Stage Researcher (R1)
Positions - PhD Positions
Country - Germany
Application Deadline - 31 Jul 2024 - 23:59 (Europe/Dublin)
Type of Contract - Temporary
Job Status - Full-time
Hours Per Week -35-40
Offer Starting Date - 2 Sep 2024
Offer Description
BullNet is a Marie Curie Doctoral Training Network focused on understanding and improving bull fertility. It will hire and train 14 PhD students (Doctoral Candidates) in a diverse range of disciplines while addressing key industry relevant research questions. It comprises a multi-disciplinary and inter-sectorial research programme designed to unravel the complex underlying biology of compromised fertility of individual bulls.
This is an exciting opportunity for one Doctoral Candidate to work at the Institute for Reproduction of Farm Animals Schönow with the world leaders in the area of bull fertility. The Doctoral Candidate will also participate in network wide training events which consist of in-person training weeks with workshops, practical sessions, seminars, as well as online invited sessions every 3 months. There will also be 3- to 6- month secondment opportunities.
Title: Predicting and improving cryotolerance in bull semen
Host: Institute for Reproduction of Farm Animals Schönow, Germany
Main Supervisor: Prof Martin Schulze (Institute for Reproduction of Farm Animals Schönow, Germany; m.schulze@ifn-schoenow.de); Prof Sean Fair (University of Limerick, Ireland; sean.fair@ul.ie)
Duration: 36 months starting September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in veterinary science, animal science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of spermatological and molecular techniques is an advantage.
Project Description: Bulls vary in the cryotolerance of their semen for reasons that are not fully understood. The objectives are: (i) Characterise and interrogate the relationship between the lipidome, proteome, and exosome of undiluted and sex sorted semen from bulls categorised as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ freezers. (ii) Establish a predictive model of bull cryotolerance in both conventional and sex-sorted semen by using omics data in combination with pre-and post-freeze motility, antioxidant capacity, membrane integrity, fluidity, and stability. (iii) Investigate the effect of altering sperm cryopreservation media components including antioxidants (e.g. Hydroxytyrasol) and membrane stabilizers (e.g. cholesterol, lecithin), and the effects of the deep interactions among these components and specific dilution, cooling and equilibration processing techniques on the cryotolerance of semen from bulls categorised as good and bad freezers. (iv) Assess temperature dependent volume response and osmotic tolerance in sperm from good and bad freezers, the effects of antioxidants and membrane stabilizers on these properties, and correlate these data with lipidome and proteome differences. Identify media components that should be used in cryopreservation medium to mitigate osmotic damage both during glycerol equilibration and during cooling for both good and bad freezers.
Where to apply
E-mail - BullNet@ul.ie
Requirements
Research Field
Biological sciences » Biological engineering
Education Level - Master Degree or equivalent
- Spermatology/CASA/Flowcytometry
- Cell Biology including Sperm Cell Biology
- Semen Microbiology/Immunology
- Data Science
- Scientific Writing
- An in-depth knowledge of spermatological and molecular techniques is an advantage but not mandatory.
- Applicants must speak and write fluently in English (IELTS=6.0 or higher).
- Candidates should have a class B driver's license or equivalent certificate.
Languages - ENGLISH
Level - Excellent
Additional Information
The candidates will be employed according to the MSCA Doctoral Network rules and follow the regulations of the hosting institution. The financial package will include the monthly researcher allowances subdivided into
1) a living allowance of €3,400 per month (country correction coefficient applies - The living allowance is a gross amount, including compulsory deductions under national law, such as employer and employee social security contributions and direct taxes)
2) a mobility allowance of €600 per month and,
3) a family allowance per month, where applicable.
Doctoral candidates will be given an employment contract for 36 months by their host institution and will be entitled to full employee benefits and inclusion in social security schemes of the host country.
You have the chance to join a comprehensive, interactive and international training programme, as well as training across international institutions
Supported researchers: applicants must be doctoral candidates, i.e., not already in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment. Researchers who have successfully defended their doctoral thesis but who have not yet formally been awarded the doctoral degree will not be considered eligible.
Mobility rule: researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity (e.g., work, studies) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their recruitment date.
Applications (in English) must include the following documents in a single PDF file:
1. Cover letter (max 500 words) including a statement why you are suited for this position, demonstrating any relevant techniques used and your expected impact on the project.
2. Curriculum vitae (max 3 pages) - the CV must be without gaps, in order to easily check the mobility and experience requirements.
3. Transcripts of B.Sc. and M.Sc. courses, including grades.
4. One written academic reference included
In case the Master’s Degree has not been obtained at the closing date for application, the candidate has to submit a declaration signed by their supervisor or University official stating that the degree will be obtained by the time of PhD enrolment (1st September 2024)
Please send your application documents in a single PDF to bullnet@ul.ie.
The subject line of the email must be in the following format: “BullNet: application for DC6”. Ineligible or incomplete applications will not be considered.
The candidates will initially be evaluated on the basis of the received documents against the following criteria:
• Academic record
• Scientific quality of the applicant’s CV
• Expected individual impact and benefit to the fellow and to the project
• Previous experience in the subject areas of Bullnet
Shortlisting and Interviews
The short-listed candidates will then be interviewed by a panel that will include the recruiting PIs plus additional consortium members with a balance in terms of gender and varied sector experience. The selection procedure will be open, transparent, and merit-based, fully aligned with the EURAXESS Code of Conduct (https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/charter/code). Although the selection will be based on the quality of applications, gender balance will also be considered.
Interviews to be held in mid-August
Lynda Perkins
Animal Page Content
Sue Hatcher Appointed as New Editor-in-Chief of animal – science proceedings
Sue Hatcher Appointed as New Editor-in-Chief of animal – science proceedings
Ignacio Fernández-Fígares Ibáñez and Francesco Vizzarri join the Editorial Board
The team at animal – science proceedings is thrilled to announce that Dr. Sue Hatcher, Director and Principal Scientist at Makin Outcomes Pty Ltd, will take on the role of Editor-in-Chief starting December 2024. Dr. Hatcher’s vast expertise and leadership in animal science will steer the journal into an exciting future of innovative research and comprehensive scientific dialogue.
With over 25 years of experience in the field, Dr. Hatcher has made significant contributions to animal breeding, genetics, and production systems. Her work has been widely recognised for its impact on advancing scientific understanding and practical applications within the animal science community. As the Director and Principal Scientist at Makin Outcomes Pty Ltd, she has demonstrated exceptional ability in driving scientific excellence and fostering collaborative research.
In addition to Dr. Hatcher’s appointment, we are pleased to welcome Dr. Ignacio Fernández-Fígares Ibáñez and Dr. Francesco Vizzarri to the editorial board. Dr. Fernández-Fígares, based in Spain, is renowned for his research in animal nutrition and physiology, while Dr. Vizzarri, (Slovakia), brings extensive expertise in animal feed and welfare. Their diverse backgrounds and knowledge will enhance the journal's capacity to address a broad spectrum of topics within animal science. They will enhance the current board comprising
- Giuseppe Bee - Switzerland
- Maria Font - Spain
- Liam Sinclair - United Kingdom
- Jaap van Milgen - France
Together, they represent a diverse and international perspective on animal science, ensuring that animal – science proceedings continues to publish the proceedings of international conferences that address global challenges and opportunities in the field.
Dr. Hatcher expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, stating, "I am honoured to lead animal – science proceedings and look forward to working with an exceptional team to advance the journal's mission. Our focus will be on promoting rigorous research, fostering innovative approaches, and supporting the global animal science community."
As we prepare for this exciting transition, we extend our deepest gratitude to the outgoing Editor-in-Chief, [Prof Cledwyn Thomas], for his outstanding leadership and dedication over the past decade. His tenure has been marked by significant growth and the establishment of the journal as a leading publication in animal science.
President’s Session
BSAS News June 2024
Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership (MIBTP) PhD CASE: Factors influencing the production of mycotoxins in grass silage and their effect on gut health and performance in dairy cows
Post Type: | Full Time |
Closing Date: | 23.59 hours BST on Friday 26 July 2024 |
Reference: | MH-R-RHH-R4-LS-24 |
Factors influencing the production of mycotoxins in grass silage and their effect on the rumen microbiome and health and performance of dairy cows
Primary supervisor: Prof Liam Sinclair, Harper Adams University
Non-academic partner: Dr Jules Taylor-Pickard, Alltech
Project description
Grass silage is the predominant forage fed to dairy cows in the UK. The aim when ensiling grass is to create an anaerobic environment to restrict proliferation of undesirable microbes, thereby maintaining the nutritive value over the winter-feeding period, and preventing spoilage. Factors such as the dry matter and sugar content of the grass, along with plant maturity and ensiling conditions can all affect the forage quality. Under adverse forage growing and ensiling conditions, or aerobic spoilage of clamps or bales at feed-out, fungal spoilage can be widespread. Under these conditions fungi can produce secondary compounds, including mycotoxins, which have been reported to occur in over 90% of the forage fed to cattle in temperate regions such as the UK, Ireland and Northern Europe. When present in the diet of cattle, mycotoxins and biologically active breakdown products can negatively affect gut function, health, fertility and production, and, in extreme cases, lead to death. Moreover, there is a risk that mycotoxins can be passed into the human food chain via the milk or meat.
Ruminants such as cattle rely on the activity of the microbes in the first stomach, or rumen, to digest feeds such as grass silage. Cattle can be more resistant to certain mycotoxins due to the activity of the rumen microbial community. However, most work has been undertaken on maize silage and few studies have been conducted on the mycotoxins commonly found in grass silage, or the subsequent effect of these compounds on the rumen microbiome. The ability of the rumen microbiome to efficiently digest forages is also dependent on a delicate balance of microbial species that can break down fibre and protein in the diet. An imbalance or shift in microbial population as a result of mycotoxins in grass silage may reduce digestive efficiency and indirectly impair health, milk performance and fertility.
Harper Adams University is one of the few centres in the UK that has the capability to carry out high impact research to investigate mycotoxin production in grass silage and subsequent effects on the rumen microbiome, rumen fermentation and immune response in dairy cows. These facilities allow us to ensile grass silage at multiple scales and under varying conditions to produce different levels of mycotoxins. Studies undertaken in vitro or in the animal can be undertaken to examine the ability of the microbiome to detoxify mycotoxins, and the uptake of biologically active compounds into milk. The rumen microbial community will be analysed using the current metagenomic and metabarcoding methodologies. Blood samples may be collected to examine the immune response to feeding forages with different mycotoxin loads, and strategies will be examined to mitigate and deactivate the effects of mycotoxins, such as the use of in-feed binder supplements. Mycotoxin analysis will be conducted by at a dedicated laboratory run by the industrial partner.
Selection will be based on academic attainment, and research potential within the MIBTP Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP). However, international student numbers are capped at 30% by the funders (BBSRC).
Successful candidates will receive a yearly stipend (paid monthly in advance) set at the UKRI rate: for 2024/5 this will be £19,237. In addition, the industry partner will provide a £2000 per year uplift to the stipend.
Harper Adams University is unfortunately unable to offer a fee waiver for international students applying to the MIBTP programme. Evidence of funding will be required for international students to show they can cover the difference between the UK and international student fees for the full four years of the programme: for the 2024/5 academic year this amount is £10,890. However, scholarships may be available at the time of appointment to cover the difference between UK and International fees for the duration of the programme.
Please note that in addition to the Harper Adams application form you will be required to complete an EDI form directly with MIBTP.
Candidates are encouraged to contact Prof Liam Sinclair to discuss the project before applying if they wish to.
Harper Adams University is one of the premier UK Higher Education institutions focused on the land-based and food supply chain sector. With around 2,800 undergraduate students, plus those completing postgraduate, research and CPD programmes, Harper Adams University is the UK's largest single provider of higher education for these subjects. Programmes fall into eleven broad subject areas – but none operate in isolation. Community and collaboration are key at Harper Adams, meaning everyone, including staff, students and industry partners, benefits from a close network of knowledge and opportunity exchange. Situated in Shropshire, the campus and the surrounding area provide an excellent working and living environment for staff and students alike.
Harper Adams is consistently positioned highly in a range of national ratings, performance measures and league tables. The University has been the highest performing modern university in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide for the last four years, climbing to 17th place in the overall league table. In the 2020 guide Harper Adams was named Modern University of the Year and runner-up University of the Year. In the 2019 Whatuni? Student Choice Awards, based on student reviews, Harper Adams won the Student Support category for the fifth time – the only university to have taken the title since the awards began - and won the category for best job prospects for a fourth year running. In the 2020 QS World Rankings for Agriculture and Forestry published in March 2020, Harper Adams was ranked first in the UK for academic reputation and second in the world for its reputation with employers.
Harper Adams University is internationally recognised for the quality of its research, as evidenced by the Research Excellence Framework 2022. In order to maintain and uphold the high standards of our research, we continue to undertake initiatives to ensure that integrity, ethics and excellence are at the core of our research activities and fully embedded in our research culture.
animal Receives An Impressive Impact Factor Of 4
We are delighted to announce that the animal Journal has achieved a remarkable milestone with the release of its latest Impact Factor (IF). animal now boasts an impressive IF of 4.0, underscoring its growth and increasing influence over the past five years.
animal is an open-access, international scientific journal co-owned by The British Society of Animal Science (BSAS), INRAe, and the European Association of Animal Production (EAAP), and published by Elsevier. The journal's comprehensive coverage across various disciplines in animal science is reflected in its outstanding rankings: 4th out of 80 in the Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science category, and 8th out of 167 in the Veterinary Sciences category. These rankings are especially noteworthy given that animal publishes a significant proportion of original research articles (approximately 85%), in contrast to many higher-ranking journals that specialise in specific disciplines or predominantly publish review papers, which often attract more citations.
We are proud of the contributions from BSAS members, who consistently submit high-quality manuscripts to animal and we encourage you to consider submitting your future manuscripts to animal and to explore opportunities to support the journal's growth by volunteering as a deputy section editor. Your contributions and expertise are invaluable to maintaining the high standards and continued success of our journal.
Additionally, members of BSAS can benefit from significant discounts on the article processing charges, as can our deputy section editors.
For more information or to express your interest in becoming a deputy section editor, please contact:
Isabelle Ortigues
Editor-in-Chief, Animal Journal
isabelle.ortigues@inrae.fr
Isabelle Loveau
Associate Editor-in-Chief, Animal Journal
isabelle.louveau@inrae.fr
Research engineer in charge of environmental and nutritional assessments of monogastric farming systems using life cycle analysis
JOB POSITION
The French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment (INRAE) is a public research establishment. It is a community of 12,000 people with more than 200 research units and 42 experimental units located throughout France. The institute is among the world leaders in agricultural and food sciences, in plant and animal sciences, and is 11th in the world in ecology and environment. INRAE’s main goal is to be a key player in the transitions necessary to address major global challenges. In the face of the increase in population, climate change, scarcity of resources and decline in biodiversity, the institute develops solutions for multiperformance agriculture, high quality food and sustainable management of resources and ecosystems.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND ACTIVITIES
You will be welcomed in the Pegase Joint Research Unit based in Saint-Gilles (close to Rennes city, France). Pegase joint research unit (INRAE and Institut Agro - Rennes-Angers) aims to better understand and predict how animals and farming systems can adapt to a changing context with the aim of improving the sustainability and competitiveness of livestock farming. Within the Sysmo research team, our mission is to produce knowledge, methods, references and tools to optimize/improve the environmental balance and the multiple intrinsic and extrinsic qualities of products from monogastric farming systems, by mobilizing several livestock farming levers, including innovative feeding strategies. The Sysmo team's research covers several areas dealing with complementary dimensions (resources, animals, products, systems):
i) Metrics, methods and tools for the characterization of resources, animals, products and systems.
ii) Effects of farming factors or practices on the different dimensions of production sustainability and their interrelationships, within different farming systems.
iii) Design and evaluation of strategies to improve the sustainability of production.
Your mission will be in line with the ambitions of the Sysmo team and the objectives of the European research and innovation project STEP UP (2024-2027), supported by the Horizon Europe program. One of the main aims of STEP UP is to produce quantitative information/data on livestock farming, as an integral part of the food system and the wider ecosystem. Through a variety of research methodologies and strong stakeholder engagement, STEP UP aims to provide European policymakers with a platform of robust scientific data on the impacts and externalities of more sustainable European Livestock Production Systems (ELPS).
The main task of the project on which you will be working is to contribute to the implementation of a nutritional life cycle assessment (nLCA) of farmed animal products (meat). Nutritional LCA involves the consideration and use of nutritional functional units such as nutrient composition, density or quality, in environmental life cycle assessment (LCA-E) (McLaren et al., 2021). Based on individual data from a pig trial that aimed at improving several dimensions of pork meat quality (Lebret et al., 2023) and environmental life
cycle assessment (E-LCA) results (Gagaoua et al., 2023), you will contribute to the implementation of nLCA and the joint integration of intrinsic (product-related) and extrinsic (production-related) qualities of pork using multi-criteria approaches, within the “One Quality” concept. The project also aims to collect data from published E-LCA studies on pork production available in the literature to complete an in-house database.
More specifically, you will be in charge of:
- Contribute through a first literature review to identify and refine the impact categories and main indicators (metrics) allowing to implement a nutritional life cycle analysis (nLCA) of animal products (mainly meat) based on existing approaches/guidelines (McLaren et al., 2021).
- Propose/develop a nutritional LCA for pork products, using experimental and individual data including E-LCA results already available.
- Complete and enrich a database of E-LCA data/studies on pork production by means of a second literature review.
- Contribute to the study and critical analysis of the methodological obstacles and mathematical/statistical approaches required for the joint integration of the intrinsic (nutritional dimension) and extrinsic (environmental impacts) qualities of pork, using experimental and individual data.
This work will be under the supervision of M. Gagaoua and build on existing collaborations within Sysmo team, the STEP UP consortium and colleagues at SAS joint research unit (Rennes).
TRAINING AND SKILLS REQUIRED
- Recommended training: engineer or Master 2 in agronomy/animal production (or equivalent)
- Knowledge required: Life cycle assessment (LCA), Research methods and literature review, Sustainability of animal production.
- Appreciated experience: evaluation of environmental impacts and use of LCA tools and software (e.g., SimaPro, Open LCA, MeansInOut), Multicriteria evaluation, Statistics.
- Skills sought: Teamwork, Rigor, Able to work independently as well as to collaborate, Creativity, Good communication skills, including the ability to communicate and write well in English.
Other details
- Unit: UMR PEGASE 1348
- Postal code + city: 35590 Saint-Gilles, Rennes
- Type of contract: Temporary position
- Duration of the contract: 10 months
- Starting date: 01/10/2024
- Remuneration: Minimum gross monthly salary of 2 245 € depending on experience
How to apply
Send a motivation letter, a CV and references to:
Mohammed Gagaoua
By e-mail: mohammed.gagaoua@inrae.fr
Deadline for applications: 30/07/2024
The Effect of Breed and Storage on Nutritional Composition of Dairy Colostrum
This study was completed by Sarah Meeke, College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise.
Take home message: It is vital that colostrum is collected and sampled for quality quickly after calving and fed immediately to newborn calves, reducing the rate of bacterial colonisation and Immunoglobulin decline. However, correct storage in either a fridge for a short period of time or freezer can be used in a colostrum feeding protocol to ensure calves are receiving the passive immunity they require to be healthy.
The importance of colostrum to a newborn calf cannot be underestimated, with calves suffering from colostrum deprivation significantly contributing to mortality rates and impacting farm profitability. The quality of colostrum is vital and is largely determined by immunoglobulins Ig (IgG), fat and protein concentrations. On farm measurements of colostrum quality are commonly done using a refractometer or colostrometer which are cost effective methods and measures quality by the level of IgG in a sample. High quality colostrum is defined as having a IgG concentration of >50mg/ml (22% brix value) and low quality <50mg/ml (18% brix value). There are several on farm factors that can affect the quality of colostrum and this study aimed to identity colostrum quality, composition and storage techniques in different breeds on Northern Irish farms. Hypothesising that Holstein cows would produce the highest yield but lowest IgG quality colostrum.
Colostrum samples were taken from three farms and each farm had a different breed of cattle; British Frisian, Holstein and Jersey. Colostrum was tested using a refractometer within 12 hours of collection and then split into one of four storage treatments, fridge, freezer, room temperature and pasteurization. A second reading was taken from the fridge and room temperature after 24 hours, day 3 and 7, and the frozen sample was tested following defrosting and pasteurization. A bacterial count using agar plates and colony counter was carried out on colostrum from all three breeds from each sample type. Fresh colostrum samples from each breed were also measured for protein, fat and lactose %. Farmers were also asked a set of herd management questions.
A single factor ANOVA found a significant difference in the colostrum quality of fresh samples between breeds (P = 0.001), measuring at 23.2 IgG, 21.2 IgG and 18.1 IgG for British Friesian, Holstein and Jersey, respectively. Colostrum quality significantly (P = <0.01) declined between the fresh measurement and day 7 of sampling protocol (22% vs 18%). Pasteurisation did not have a significant impact on IgG levels (P= 0.1), similarly defrosting samples did not result in a significant difference (P =0.1) in quality in any of the breeds. However, the Holstein sample dropped from 23% at fresh to 20.7% after storage which is below the desired threshold of high quality for brix measurements. Bacterial count was greatest in room temperature samples compared to fridge, freezer and pasteurisation and the lowest bacterial count was found in the fresh sample. Although there was a numerical difference of up to 6 days between the dry period length of breeds, there was no statistical difference (P=0.1).
In conclusion, this study has demonstrated the effect room temperature has on IgG levels and the differences in colostrum quality between breeds of dairy cattle. The study has also been successful in demonstrating the decline in colostrum quality over time and on one occasion between freezing and defrosting of a sample. However, the study would have liked to have measured additional factors such as diet, dam age and health status.
Written by Nia Lloyd, Lecturer at Aberystwyth University.
How farming is adapting to new climate requirements - a farmers view
A memory burns in my mind of a recent comedy gig I attended in London. While enjoying the show, I made an unfortunate mistake of making eye contact with the comedian. Before I had any time to develop an escape strategy, I found the spotlight firmly set on myself and the conversation began in a cordial fashion as I said my name and expressed how much I was enjoying the show. The follow up question seemed equally cordial:
Comedian: So what do you do for a living?
Me: I’m a Dairy Farmer
Comedian: You do realise you’re destroying the planet?
Before I had time to respond the Comedian had followed up with some other comments before moving the spotlight to another unfortunate individual. While this was a single interaction with one individual and can be taken in isolation, I do feel a general lack of appreciation exists for the difficult situation the farming community has found itself in. Most farmers I interact with are focused on finding and implementing solutions in an effort to continually adapt to the climate crisis. This is not as a result of requirements forced upon them but because they see themselves as custodians of the land and want to protect it for future generations.
Reflecting on the topic, some subtle changes have occurred in the last number of years that demonstrate how farmers are willing to adapt. I cannot remember the last time I saw a Slurry Tanker on the road with a splash plate, nor spreading in a field. From my view point most spreading is now completed with LESS (Low Emission Slurry Spreading) equipment. This involves a significant cost to farmers in the form of purchasing new equipment or retrofitting old tankers with a dribble bar.
Similarly I have noticed a big swing from traditional fertiliser to protected Urea. In the last number of years, a majority of farmers I interact with have moved to protected Urea. When asking them on the reasoning for this, the most common answer I received was each farmer felt they had a personal responsibility to play their part in managing the climate crisis.
Grassland Management is another area that farmers have stepped up on in an effort to adapt. Gone are the days when Slurry was seen as a waste product that needed to be spread. It is now seen as a valuable commodity. Several farmers I know measure the nitrogen content in slurry before spreading in order to accurately spread the required units of nitrogen. This naturally has the effect of reducing the chemical fertiliser spread on these farms and is a form of adaption that I have very much seen with my own eyes.
These are only three very small examples of how farmers have adapted their practises in response to the climate crisis but I feel it is the underlying attitude in adapting that deserves some praise. While some, like my comedian friend, view farmers in a very black and white manner as the source of the climate crisis, the truth is a lot more nuanced. I find it hard to imagine that my comedian friend has adapted his life in any way but is more than happy to throw blame at the one community who are genuinely trying to adapt and find solutions. Farmers view themselves as front line soldiers in this battle, ready and willing to adapt, we just need everyone else to come with us.
Teagasc PhD Walsh Scholarship Opportunity “Characterisation of the air microbiome in dairy-to-beef calf housing and its association with the respiratory health of calves”
Walsh Scholarships Ref Number 2024047
Background
Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a key cause of morbidity and mortality in dairy to beef calves. It is diagnosed in 33.4% of calves aged between 1 and 5 months submitted to regional veterinary laboratories.
In work conducted by Earley et al. (2019) BRD was the second most common reason for treatment of calves during the preweaning period. BRD is caused by numerous viruses and bacterial agents. BRD has a complex aetiology which is still an area of developing knowledge.
The respiratory tract of calves is not sterile, it is populated with various microorganisms. Some of the commensal microorganisms identified in the respiratory tract of calves are potential pathogens. A key part of our developing our understanding of BRD is understanding how these microorganism transition from commensals to pathogens. This is likely to be influenced by numerous factors such as stress and poor air quality. One key area that has not been investigated is the influence that the microorganism present in the air of calf housing have on the microbiome of a calf’s respiratory tract. Air is also hypothesized as a medium for transmission of BRD pathogens however its relative importance is not well established. No published work has attempted to sequence the air of calf housing, this is likely to provide key information around pathogen transmission and the specific characteristics of poor air quality that might be associated with increased risk of BRD.
Rapid identification of diseased calves and appropriate treatment is vital to achieving satisfactory resolution of BRD cases. One of the key barriers to effective treatment of BRD is antimicrobial resistance however the current susceptibility of BRD pathogens present in Ireland is unknown, developing a
knowledge of the current trends in antimicrobial resistance will allow Irish veterinarians to better plan testing and treatment protocols.
Overall, this project aims to improve our understanding of the dynamics of the air microbiome in calfhousing and how it affects the prevalence and severity of BRD.
i. Examination of the air microbiome in dairy calf to beef housing; longitudinal trends, investigationof housing microclimates and influence of other housing environmental factors
ii. Investigation of the influence of air microbiome on the microbiome of the respiratory tract andhealth of dairy to beef calves
iii. Examination of the virome present in dairy to beef calf housing air
iv. Survey of antimicrobial resistance genes present in bacteria identified in the respiratory tract ofdairy to beef calves
Requirements
Applications are invited from graduates holding or expecting a primary degree (First or Upper Second Class Honours) in a biological science (e.g., Agricultural Science, Animal Science, Biology, Genetics,Veterinary Science). The successful candidate will be expected to register with the School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin for a 4-year Ph.D. degree. The successful candidate should be highly self-motivated and be prepared for periods of field and laboratory work, and engage in training anddevelopment courses. A full driving licence is required. For applicants whose first language is not English, requirements are outlined here.
Award
Funding will be awarded to the student who will complete the scholarship. The current rate is astipend of €25,000 per annum, plus a contribution to fees up to a maximum of €6,000 per annum. Any fees in excess of this amount will be addressed by the HEI. The successful candidate will be mainlybased at the Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre (AGRIC), Teagasc Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath, and will be registered at UCD. The research will be collaborative, involving scientists at University College Dublin, Teagasc, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Grange, Co. Meath, Dublin City University and University of Ghent. The scholarship will start on Monday 9th September 2024.
Further Information
Dr. John Donlon, Teagasc Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath. Phone: +353 (0)46 906 1213, email: john.donlon@teagasc.ie Dr. Conor McAloon, University College Dublin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Science Centre
Belfield Dublin 4. Phone: +353 (0)1 716 6083, email: Conor.McAloon@ucd.ie
Application Procedure
A letter of interest together with a curriculum vitae and the names and contact details of two refereesshould be sent by email to john.donlon@teagasc.ie and Conor.McAloon@ucd.ieClosing date for receipt of applications: 22 July 2024
Undergraduate Thesis of the Year [closed 31st July]
The BSAS Undergraduate Thesis of the Year Award 2024 competition is open to universities and colleges that have students participating in animal science related courses.
Guest Blog: Livestock, ecosystems and the economy
In April 2024, the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) held its 80th Annual Conference, in Belfast. The pivotal theme of this year’s event was the role of livestock in our ecosystems and economy. It inspired some deep discussions, which illustrate some of the directions that animal- based agriculture is heading.
Dr Lucy Ross, livestock specialist and sustainability consultant with Promar, was at the conference. Here, she debates of some of the key issues that emerged at that conference, in conversation with Dr Holly Vickery, from Harper Adams University.
Livestock and sustainability – is a balanced view possible?
Lucy Ross: Part of the issue is that it’s an easy subject to imagine and portray in the popular media: cows produce gas, so fewer cows = cleaner air, right? But it’s not that simple! While there’s no denying livestock’s impact on soil, water, and air, it’s important to get a complete picture.
As Professor Maggie Gill emphasized at BSAS24, we have a crucial need for responsibility, highlighting that every agricultural activity (in fact, any productive or manufacturing industry) leaves an impact, but issues are more nuanced than the simplistic media headlines suggest.
Holly Vickery: Farming, and the research that underpins it, acknowledges this responsibility and is actively addressing challenges.
For instance, excessive nutrient runoff remains a water-quality concern, and improved resource use and recycling are crucial. However, agricultural techniques are evolving rapidly, and solutions are being developed. Promising advancements, such as precision manure application and nitrogen-fixing crops, offer exciting possibilities for a more sustainable future.
Lucy Ross: I think we all need to better communicate the circular benefits of livestock, while pointing out that we can’t just provide singular solutions. Of course, popular media prefers polarising stories though, so the simple rather negative framing will likely continue.
Can livestock farming actually improve biodiversity?
Holly Vickery: Judging by discussions at BSAS24, many farms and researchers are exploring ways to integrate farming systems and pasture management, to create win-wins for livestock and the environment.
There’s awareness that livestock can be utilised to provide ecosystem benefits, particularly in mixed- farming models and there is enthusiasm for multi-disciplinary solutions, which consider the whole ecosystem.
Lucy Ross: One real-world challenge lies in creating a system that encourages different types of farms to link together on a regional basis. While nutrient cycling presents complexities, collaboration offers significant environmental benefits.
Holly Vickery: Some researchers, such as Dr Mary McEvoy are exploring the promise of diverse pastures for biodiversity, reduced emissions, and continued food production. However, those at BSAS 24 raised questions about how to apply this in their real-world situation, including:
- How do we select multi-sward varieties that are reliable for our specific conditions? (In other words, what suits my neighbour may not suit me, and why should I invest if there is no hard evidence of a solution’s applicability to my business?)
- How much difference does soil type and regional variation contribute to results?
- Most UK grassland is in the form of permanent pasture: how do we incorporate clover and multispecies into permanent pasture without ploughing?
Lucy Ross: Without doubt, further research will offer exciting possibilities, although challenges remain regarding soil type, fertility, longevity and management. Again, bridging the gap between research and real-world application will be crucial.
Academics, including Professor Bridget Emmett, UKCEH’s Science Area Head for Soils and Land Use, acknowledge the importance of balancing production with ecosystem services for true sustainability. In fact, UKCEH is building this type of solution into its products. Their tools and datasets help farmers visualize the environmental impact of their choices.
Can addressing soil health benefit producers as well as the environment?
Holly Vickery: Healthy soil is essential for a sustainable future. At BSAS 24, Dr Jack Hannam, President of the British Society of Soil Science, highlighted that up to 40% of UK agricultural land is degraded. However, practices like regenerative agriculture and innovative tools to aid grazing management are already reversing this trend.
Managed correctly, livestock can be hugely beneficial for soil health. For example, strategically managed grazing can improve nutrient cycling, soil biology, and carbon sequestration.
One way to help acknowledge these benefits and increase their use, would be to re-frame the idea of “profit”, so that it’s not just measured by yield, but includes rewards for enhancing environmental health, and other benchmarks such as social responsibility.
Lucy Ross: These are radical ideas, which may not attract a positive reaction in all quarters but do have a place if the preservation of productive environments is to be achieved. The path to success must include strengthening natural capital, soil health, and overall farm resilience.
Technology will play a key role in this. Automating data collection from farm equipment will help farmers make informed decisions and more targeted management, further reducing environmental impact. However, the way to harness this potential equitably remains unclear.
In short, a combined approach – adopting innovative technology and responsible practices – is key to unlocking the positive environmental potential of livestock farming. The challenge lies in finding a way to do this while still enabling farmers to farm. At Promar, this is what we are creating – a truly sustainable approach, which does not destroy farm business while enriching the environment that supports it.
Is carbon sequestration and carbon trading economically viable?
Holly Vickery: At BSAS24, soil carbon sequestration emerged as a key topic in carbon trading discussions. Experts emphasized the need for standardized methods and urgent action, despite uncertainties around soil behaviour and storage capacity.
Lucy Ross: Farmers raised a lot of interesting questions, such as querying soil’s carbon-storage limit and wondering about the potential of using biochar.
While biochar shows promise, a deeper understanding of soil profiles is needed for optimal placement. Further research will uncover the depth of its true potential.
What’s the future for the UK livestock industry?
Lucy Ross: The livestock industry’s contribution goes well beyond food production, that’s for sure, and presenters at BSAS24 were keen to point this out. [Livestock output was worth around £20 billion in 2022.] The industry also provides valuable co-products and ecosystem services that contribute significantly to our economy in other ways. These need to be appreciated too.
Holly Vickery: For me, BSAS24 underscored the need for science-based policies that consider the full picture of animal agriculture, including its environmental contributions. It also showcased the critical role livestock can play in achieving a sustainable circular food economy, through co-products utilized in various industries, and highlighting their role beyond food production.
However, in the face of constant trade pressures and changing consumer demands, the industry must be adaptable. Innovation is key to remaining competitive and to balancing economic viability with environmental responsibility.
How can change be achieved that benefits UK livestock farmers?
Lucy Ross: Farmers have a lot to say, and justifiably so, on the need for fairness in the supply chain. For example, James Taylor, a dairy and beef farmer in Portrush, articulated a widely held feeling among farmers. He highlighted the importance of clear and consistent communication with farmers from retailers, processors, researchers, and legislators, as consumer preferences and markets evolve.
Many farmers are in vulnerable positions in so many ways, bearing the brunt of environmental and economic pressures, while potentially being penalised by buyers for pursuing demonstrably eco-friendly practices such as selling sustainable food to local consumers.
Holly Vickery: To ensure sustainable change it is essential that we work collaboratively with farmers, research, industry, and policymakers to develop solutions that benefit all stakeholders, the economy, and the environment. Recognizing livestock’s multifaceted role in rural livelihoods and cultural heritage is another important element of appreciating their full societal value.
There’s a need to bridge the gap between research and farm
Lucy Ross: The agricultural research landscape is evolving rapidly due to new technologies, shifting consumer trends, and changing funding priorities. To keep pace, research needs to connect more effectively with real-world farming.
Holly Vickery: In academia, we’re always looking for ways to collaborate with farmers, to ensure the commercial applicability of our research and that strategies we investigate are feasible for use in the real-world.
Key to this is effective two-way communication, and a willingness for both parties to engage in on- farm research and collaboration that does not hamper farms’ needs to continue their commercial operations.
Lucy Ross: Farmers are receptive to practical improvements but require support to bridge the gap between research and implementation. Effective training, delivered efficiently, is also essential. At BSAS 24, farmers supported approaches such as discussion groups, development farms, and peer-to- peer learning led by trusted advisors.
In return, academic research needs to find models that enable research to be undertaken that does not compromise farmers’ needs to operate commercial ventures. Potential approaches here involve more long-term projects, greater use of passive data collection, and a greater willingness of all parties to share experience and knowledge in a collaborative environment.
Holly Vickery: By embracing technology, fostering collaboration, and prioritizing knowledge exchange, researchers can stay relevant and contribute to sustainable agriculture. This requires cooperation and a commitment to learning from each other. This is achievable, but requires good communication, good faith, and flexibility.
We also need to establish standardised ways of collecting and using data, and to solve the issue of ownership and compensation. It’s something that the whole supply chain needs to work out together.
What were the key take-aways from BSAS24?
Lucy Ross: Overall, it’s ensuring stakeholders come together to share knowledge, ideas and best practice, it helps participants at all points in the supply chain, and academics too, plot a path toward resilient and sustainable livestock farming, as well as targeted research. Opportunities to discuss the big issues in a neutral setting are vital.
Holly Vickery: Academic and research institutions are looking for ways to work effectively with farms, as they see that it will provide them with better results, and that farmers want robust evidence that new ideas are applicable and profitable to their needs. There is goodwill on both sides, but gaps still need to be bridged to enable efficient implementations.
Lucy Ross and Holly Vickery on the main messages of BSAS24:
- Diversity is strength – A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Farms can only thrive with tailored solutions, and learning from each other’s successes is crucial.
- Tech for transformation – From precision farming to soil analysis, technology empowers farmers to optimize resources and minimize their environmental impact. However, the future of data in farming remains an issue that, although promising, is still unattractive for many farmers due of lack of clarity about ownership, collection, compensation, or who exactly profits from it.
- Holistic harmony – Viable solutions prioritize biodiversity, conservation, and soil health alongside production. Embracing regenerative practices unlocks greater farm resilience. Integrating these approaches into policy is essential.
- Collaboration is key – Tackling complex challenges requires joint efforts. Regional partnerships and knowledge sharing between diverse farms bolster both environmental and economic sustainability.
- Research and trust – Collaborative research drives innovation, while consumer education builds trust. Highlighting livestock’s positive contributions to food security, livelihoods, and ecosystems is vital.
Promar – linking research and practice at all points in the supply chain
At Promar, we’re committed to helping all players in the agricultural industry. This includes finding ways to enhance environments and ecosystems while enabling farm businesses to thrive. We facilitate and enhance dialogues between different strands of the supply chain, bridge gaps between academia and industry, and help farms to successfully navigate the multiple challenges that they face.
Our unique perspective helps companies to obtain a complete picture quickly. If you have a project in mind, speak to us.
The Animal AgTech Innovation Summit
SAVE THE DATE: The Animal AgTech Innovation Summit will welcome 350+ leaders to Amsterdam over two days of in-depth discussions and plenty of networking focused on building safe and sustainable meat and dairy production.
BullNet Doctoral Network position: The concurrent and latent impact of inflammatory conditions on the fertility and robustness of intensively reared bulls
Job Information
Organisation/Company -TEAGASC
Research Field - Biological sciences » Biological engineering
Researcher Profile - First Stage Researcher (R1)
Positions - PHD Positions
Country - Ireland
Application Deadline - 8 Jul 2024 - 23:59 (Europe/Dublin)
Type of Contract - Temporary
Job Status - Full-time
Hours Per Week - 35-40
Offer Starting Date - 2 Sep 2024
Offer Description
BullNet is a Marie Curie Doctoral Training Network focused on understanding and improving bull fertility. It will hire and train 14 PhD students (Doctoral Candidates) in a diverse range of disciplines while addressing key industry relevant research questions. It comprises a multi-disciplinary and inter-sectorial research programme designed to unravel the complex underlying biology of compromised fertility of individual bulls.
This is an exciting opportunity for one Doctoral Candidate to work at TEAGASC with the world leaders in the area of bull fertility. The Doctoral Candidate will also participate in network wide training events which consist of in-person training weeks with workshops, practical sessions, seminars, as well as online invited sessions every 3 months. There will also be 3- to 6- month secondment opportunities.
Host: Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Grange, Co Meath, Ireland
Main Supervisor: Prof David Kenny (Teagasc Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Grange, Ireland; David.kenny@teagasc.ie); Prof Pat Lonergan (University College Dublin; pat.lonergan@ucd.ie)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of the nutritional control of reproduction in cattle.
Project Description: Metabolic acidosis arising from subacute ruminal acidosis (induced by feeding high grain diets) has been associated with altered metabolic function however, the latent effect on the musculoskeletal and reproductive systems are not clear. The objectives are (i)Clearly define the incidence and reasons for culling in natural service and AI bulls using data from the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation and AI industry databases, with specific emphasis on musculoskeletal disorders. (ii) Establish an in vivo model of metabolic inflammatory pathology whereby peripubertal bulls are individually intensively fed on a high or moderate grain diet from 5 months and slaughtered at 15 months of age: 1. Characterise the concurrent and latent metabolic, physiological and immunological response. 2. Assess libido and conduct detailed semen quality analysis including computer assisted sperm assessment, in vitro functional assays etc. and 3. Conduct detailed morphological, histopathological and molecular analyses of key metabolic organs (i.e. liver) and musculoskeletal tissue.
Where to apply
Requirements
Research Field
Biological sciences » Biological engineering
Education Level
Master Degree or equivalent
- Strong background/academic acumen in animal/veterinary science.
- In-depth knowledge of the nutritional control of reproduction in cattle.
- An in-depth knowledge of microbiological and molecular techniques is an advantage but not mandatory.
- Applicants must speak and write fluently in English
- Candidates should demonstrate their interest and practical experience in handling cattle, as the project will involve actively working with the cattle.
Languages
ENGLISH
Level
Excellent
Additional Information
The candidates will be employed according to the MSCA Doctoral Network rules and follow the regulations of the hosting institution. The financial package will include the monthly researcher allowances subdivided into
1) a living allowance of €3,400 per month (country correction coefficient applies - The living allowance is a gross amount, including compulsory deductions under national law, such as employer and employee social security contributions and direct taxes)
2) a mobility allowance of €600 per month and,
3) a family allowance per month, where applicable.
Doctoral candidates will be given an employment contract for 36 months by their host institution and will be entitled to full employee benefits and inclusion in social security schemes of the host country.
You have the chance to join a comprehensive, interactive and international training programme, as well as training across international institutions
Supported researchers: applicants must be doctoral candidates, i.e., not already in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment. Researchers who have successfully defended their doctoral thesis but who have not yet formally been awarded the doctoral degree will not be considered eligible.
Mobility rule: researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity (e.g., work, studies) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their recruitment date.
Application Procedure
Applications (in English) must include the following documents in a single PDF file:
1. Cover letter (max 500 words) including a statement why you are suited for this position, demonstrating any relevant techniques used and your expected impact on the project.
2. Curriculum vitae (max 3 pages) - the CV must be without gaps, in order to easily check the mobility and experience requirements.
3. Transcripts of B.Sc. and M.Sc. courses, including grades.
4. One written academic reference included
In case the Master’s Degree has not been obtained at the closing date for application, the candidate has to submit a declaration signed by their supervisor or University official stating that the degree will be obtained by the time of PhD enrolment (1st September 2024)
Please send your application documents in a single PDF to bullnet@ul.ie.
The subject line of the email must be in the following format: “BullNet: application for DC1”. Ineligible or incomplete applications will not be considered.
The candidates will initially be evaluated on the basis of the received documents against the following criteria:
• Academic record
• Scientific quality of the applicant’s CV
• Expected individual impact and benefit to the fellow and to the project
• Previous experience in the subject areas of Bullnet
Shortlisting and Interviews
The short-listed candidates will then be interviewed by a panel that will include the recruiting PIs plus additional consortium members with a balance in terms of gender and varied sector experience. The selection procedure will be open, transparent, and merit-based, fully aligned with the EURAXESS Code of Conduct (https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/charter/code). Although the selection will be based on the quality of applications, gender balance will also be considered.
Interviews to be held in mid to late July
New Guest Blog: Livestock, Ecosystems and the Economy
Mapping the R0 of Bovine Tuberculosis in cattle within England and Wales: is there potential for future eradication, under the currently implemented test and control strategies?
This study was shortlisted for the 2023 Thesis of the Year Award and completed as part of Caitlin Duggan's BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Bioscience, which she studied at Aberystwyth University.
Take home message: Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) cases are predicted to decrease in cattle across England and Wales with an R0 of less than 1 shown in this study. Farmers in high bTB risk areas should consider the number of cattle they house in their holdings. A higher cattle density was linked to more bTB cases therefore providing a potential solution to reduce bTB in herds. In summary, while bTB cases are expected to decrease, complete eradication by 2038 remains challenging due to the observed trends and control strategies. Further research on new control strategies being introduced in 2025 to predict their impact will be crucial.
Will bovine tuberculosis (bTB), be eradicated by 2038 as the government plan? Current control measures include the topical culling of badgers adopted by England whereas Wales uses badger trapping and testing to only cull those that turn out positive for bTB. Previous studies have used modelling for bTB to predict the number of cattle infected with bTB at certain time points. This study specifically focuses on both England and Wales, which is unique compared to previous research.
The study aimed to find the R0 which represents how many new cases one infected individual can cause in a group of susceptible cattle. If R0 is greater than 1, the disease spreads easily. Also, the study aimed to define how long it takes for cattle exposed to become infected with bTB as currently estimates vary from months to years. The research used mathematical models based on data collected by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) between 2016 and 2021. The model took into account the number of cattle and the average birth rate, death rate, sensitivity to skin testing, rate of transmission, and rate of progression from exposed to infected.
The results showed cattle exposed to bTB were predicted to become infected after approximately 508 days falling between the previously established range. Managing this long incubation period poses a challenge for disease control efforts. The study predicted an R0 of 0.95, similar to previous reports, and indicates that cases of bTB are decreasing in England and Wales. This suggests that control strategies have been effective in reducing bTB. However, this value might underestimate the transmission risk due to wildlife (e.g., badgers) not being included in the model. Interestingly, the study found a link between the number of cattle within an area and the R0. Regions in the West of England with higher cattle numbers had a higher R0 compared to the East of England. Reducing cattle density in high-risk areas could help control bTB prevalence. Current control strategies are showing a positive effect in reducing cases of bTB in England and Wales. The findings suggest both countries will not be bTB-free by 2038 without further control strategies being implemented to reduce the R0.
Dr Issy Lewis, Animal Health Lecturer, Hartpury University.
Research Fellow School of Biological Sciences and Institute for Global Food Security at Queen’s University Belfast
Research Fellow
Job reference: 24/111971
Date posted: 03/06/2024
Application closing date: 17/06/2024
Job description
The School of Biological Sciences and Institute for Global Food Security at Queen’s University Belfast is currently seeking to appoint an exceptional candidate to the post of Research Fellow. The appointee will join the Huws group, focused on sustainable livestock production using the disciplines of Microbiology, Animal Science, and Bioinformatics.
About the person:
The successful candidate will primarily work within a multidisciplinary team undertaking research focused on sustainable ruminant production, with an emphasis on methane mitigation. The post holder will work with industry partners locally and globally to deliver impact for the agricultural and food sector. The successful candidate will work alongside the lead, a bioinformatician and a project manager within the new Centre of Excellence in Agri-Food Microbiomics. The candidate will be expected to perform the research required (for example in vitro testing) and the reports thereafter in a timely and professional manner. In general, the postholder will be an active member of the research project/team assisting in the planning and delivery of research activity. Priority will be given to candidates with research interests and expertise in anaerobic microbiology, particularly with respect to livestock microbiomes.
To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information.
Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding.
What we offer:
Beyond a competitive salary, the University offers an attractive benefits package including a holiday entitlement of up to 8.4 weeks a year, pension schemes and development opportunities. We support staff wellbeing with flexible working options, work-life balance initiatives and support for physical and mental health. You can find more detail on all of this and more at http://go.qub.ac.uk/reward.
Queen's University is committed to promoting equality of opportunity to all. We subscribe to Equality Charter Marks such as the Diversity Charter Mark NI and Athena Swan and have established staff networks such as iRise, (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and International Staff Network) and PRISM (LGBTQ+) which help us progress equality.
For further information on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, please visit www.qub.ac.uk/diversity.
University of Leeds Research Fellow in Livestock Science
Are you an ambitious researcher looking for your next challenge? Do you have an established background in Livestock Science? Do you want to further your career in one of the UKs leading research intensive Universities?
We are seeking an enthusiastic, capable and adaptable scientist with excellent communication skills, who is keen to establish themselves in livestock science research. Whilst it is not essential that you should have prior experience of working with pigs, you should have a strong interest in developing pig research. You will work closely with academics and industry to co-develop proposals, conduct commercial and non-commercial research at the National Pig Centre.
You should have a PhD (or be close to completion) in animal science or a related area, complemented by excellent analytical and laboratory skills and a proven track record in communicating your research outcomes. You will be based primarily at the University of Leeds farm at the National Pig Centre and will also be a part of the School of Biology.
What we offer in return:
- 26 days holiday plus approx.16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) – That’s 42 days a year! · Generous pension scheme plus life assurance– the University contributes 14.5% of salary · Generous pension scheme options plus life assurance
- Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state-of-the-art Campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.
- Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team.
- Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.
- And much more!
The University of Leeds and the Faculty of Biological Sciences are committed to providing equal opportunities for all and offer a range of family friendly policies. The University is a charter member of Athena SWAN (the national body that promotes gender equality in higher education), and the Faculty of Biological Sciences was awarded a Silver award in 2020. We are proud to be an inclusive Faculty that values all staff, and are happy to consider job share applications and requests for flexible working arrangements from our employees. Our Athena SWAN webpage provides more information.
To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact:
Dr Katie McDermott, Lecturer in Sustainable Livestock Production Email: k.mcdermott@leeds.ac.uk
Ryan Clarkson, Platform Manager, National Pig Centre Email: fbsrcla@leeds.ac.uk
Location: | Other |
Faculty/Service: | Faculty of Biological Sciences |
School/Institute: | School of Biology |
Category: | Research |
Grade: | Grade 7 |
Salary: | £37,099 to £44,263 per annum |
Working Time: | 100% |
Post Type: | Full Time |
Contract Type: | Fixed Term (for 2 years) |
Release Date: | Monday 03 June 2024 |
Closing Date: | Monday 01 July 2024 |
Reference: | FBSBY1196 |
BSAS News May 2024
Accomodation
Accommodation is not included in the registration fee. We are aiming to negotiate special rates for conference delegates at local hotels. Please book your accommodation directly with the hotel of your choice. This page will be updated as more information becomes available.
BSAS 2023 Proceedings
Science in Parliament - Winter 2023
Science in Parliament - Spring 2023
Science in Parliament - Winter 2022
Science in Parliament - Summer 2022
Science in Parliament - Spring 2022
BSAS 2023 Developing Talent Proceedings
Science in Parliament - Winter 2021
Science in Parliament - Autumn 2021
Science in Parliament - Summer 2021
Science in Parliament - Spring 2021
AGM 2023 Accounts
AGM 2023 Election of Office Bearers
AGM 2023 Agenda
AGM 2023 Appointed Trustees Biographies
AGM 2023 Annual Review of Activities
BSAS News April 2024
Conference 2025
BSAS 2025 Conference Details Coming Soon
BSAS 2025 Annual Conference
Registration opens in June 2024
Livestock horizons beyond food production
Embark on a transformative journey with an event that transcends conventional narratives to illuminate the multifaceted roles of livestock in shaping a sustainable future. Explore how responsible livestock management practices foster biodiversity conservation, harmonising ecosystems and safeguarding endangered species. Discover the transformative power of a circular bioeconomy, spotlighting livestock's pivotal role in creating value, minimising waste, and promoting sustainability. Delve into diverse economies, from biomethane production to sustainable phosphorus extraction, pharmaceutical development, and the utilisation of livestock-derived ingredients in clothing and cosmetics industries. Join us as we foster dialogue, innovation, and collaboration towards a more sustainable future powered by the untapped potential of livestock.
Attendees
This event caters to a broad audience interested in sustainability, agriculture, and innovation. Farmers and agricultural practitioners seeking sustainable livestock management techniques will find practical solutions. Researchers exploring biodiversity conservation, circular bioeconomy, and resource recovery will discover cutting-edge advancements. Professionals in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, clothing and renewable energy will learn about livestock-derived applications. Policymakers and environmental advocates can gain insights into shaping sustainable agricultural policies. Ultimately, this event welcomes all who wish to explore the transformative potential of livestock beyond food systems and contribute to a sustainable future.
Call For Posters
Contributions are invited from early-stage researchers and PhD students working on the fields of sustainable agriculture, biodiversity and environmental health and resilience, circular economy, renewable energy, resource management, pharmaceuticals, clothing and cosmetics. Abstracts should demonstrate how livestock, and its waste or co-products, are a key component within their project and the relevant industries.
The objective for the competition is to identify posters which best explain the outcomes of the research, and also in the context of the potential application of the results by the industry and consumers. There will be voucher prizes of £100 for 1st place and £50 for 2nd place. An abstract of maximum 250 words (250 words does not include author names, affiliations, references or figure captions) indicating title, authors, institution included with the Poster, should be sent to conferences@soci.org by Monday 18 November 2024 with the subject line “Livestock beyond food - poster submission” You can download an abstract template here.
For further information and prices, please email conferences@soci.org.
Location
SCI London
14/15 Belgrave Square
London
SW1X 8PS
Conference Team
Tel: +44 (0)20 7598 1561
Email: conferences@soci.org
Programme
10:00 Registration and refreshments
10.30 FAO's Livestock Agenda for ecosystem services and circular bioeconomy
Prof Michael Lee, Harper Adams University, FAO’s Livestock Environmental Assessment and Performance (LEAP) technical advisory group
Session 1: Livestock as partners in ecosystem health and resilience
10:45 Promoting healthy and resilient livestock systems: A holistic perspective
Dr Lisa Norton, UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology
11:00 The multidimensional role of livestock in supporting ecosystem services and biodiversity
Prof Davy McCracken, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC)
11:15 A policy-based view on the role of livestock on nature-friendly food production
Speaker to be confirmed
11:30 Panel discussion
11:50 Refreshment break
Session 2: Unlocking the hidden potential: Transforming livestock slurry into valuable resource
12:15 The place of biogas from slurry in the future role of bioenergy in the UK
Lucy Hopwood, National Non-Food Crops Centre (NNFCC)
12:30 Biomethane solutions for nutrient management
Dr Chris Johnston, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI)
12:45 Microanaerobic solutions for small livestock farmers
Dr Ilan Adler, University College London & EcoNomad Solutions
13:00 Panel discussion
13:20 Lunch, posters and exhibition
Session 3: From waste to wealth: Exploring bio-based products from livestock
14:15 The role of animal by-products in bio-based industries and circular economy
Dr Stephen Woodgate, Beacon Consulting
14:30 Unlocking the vital role of animals in biopolymer pharmaceuticals
Prof Vitaliy Khutoryanskiy, University of Reading
14:45 Wool revolution: Enhancing British flocks for premium fibre and profitability
Andrew Hogley, British Wool
15:00 Panel discussion
15:20 Networking reception
16:30 Close of conference
Beef Quest Technician
Location: Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Dunsany, Co Meath, C15 PW93 | |
Salary: Technician Grade 1 with a Salary Scale of €35,095 to €46,025 | |
Closing Date: 28/05/2024 12:00 PM | |
Funded Full Time | |
Job Description
Basic Function:
Teagasc are seeking to appoint a highly motivated research technician to support the research programme on beef cattle sustainability. This position is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine funded ‘Beef-Quest’ project which aims to develop solutions and strategies, to reduce the finishing age of Irish beef cattle. The position will be based at Teagasc Grange and primarily involve the collection of animal production (e.g. live weights, nutrition, health records) data across commercial beef farms as well as the implementation and management of beef cattle experiments with a focus on animal performance, enteric fermentation methane emissions and feed intake.
Background:
Reducing the mean finishing age of prime beef cattle from 26 to 22-23 months by 2030 has been identified as fundamental to achieving Ireland’s 25% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the agricultural sector. The successful candidate will be play a central role in the Beef-Quest project by managing animal experiments and supporting post-graduate students in the collection of animal production data from commercial beef farms. The person will be responsible for daily management of the research projects, regular monitoring of experimental equipment and assembly of data.
Job Objectives
- Management and implementation of research experiments as outlined in agreed experimental protocols.
- Assist layout of farm systems experiments to establish experimental treatments as outlined in the experimental protocol.
- Prepare housing systems and/or paddock systems as required by experimental protocols.
- Oversee experimental recording and database management; including the use of relevant software (e.g. Microsoft Office).
- Collect, process and (if required) analyse samples of feedstuffs, animal tissue and any other relevant materials; liaise with laboratory staff in respect of the analyses of samples, receipt and data entry of results in relevant software/databases and liaise with project leaders in relation to experimental data.
- Supervise personnel associated with experiments, and collaborate with and facilitate post-graduate students (and others).
- Assist post-graduate students in the collection of animal production (live weight, health) and management (nutrition, environment) data from commercial beef farms.
- Health & Safety Co-ordinator Duties or such other Health & Safety Duties as may be assigned from time to time.
- To assist Teagasc in meeting the commitments of the Quality Customer Service Charter and Action Plan.
- To actively participate in the annual business planning and Performance Management Development System (PMDS) processes.
- Fully co-operate with the provisions made for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of themselves, fellow staff and non-Teagasc staff and co-operate with management in enabling Teagasc to comply with legal obligations. This includes full compliance with the responsibilities outlined in the Safety Statement.
- Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time
* This job specification is intended as a guide to the general range of duties and is intended to be neither definitive nor restrictive. It will be reviewed from time to time with the post holder.
Skills Requirement
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Qualifications |
At the time of applying, candidates must have
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As this role will involve driving vehicles, candidates must satisfy and continue to satisfy during employment with Teagasc, legal requirements to drive a car unaccompanied on Irish public roads.
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Eligibility
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This is an open public competition. Should a current serving Teagasc staff member be successful in their application through open public competition for this post, their current contract of employment with Teagasc will come to an end on taking up this post. |
Note: The ‘essential’ qualifications, knowledge, skills and behavioural competencies outlined above are ‘must-have’ which will be used in the selection process.
Animal Scientist in Suckler Beef Production
Location: Teagasc, Animal & Grassland, Research and Innovation Centre, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath. | |
Research | |
Salary: Research Officer with a Salary Scale of €39,683 to €75,761 | |
Closing Date: 10/05/2024 12:00 PM | |
Permanent Full Time | |
Job Description
Basic Function:
To develop, lead and implement a state of the art research programme in the production of suckler beef cattle with particular focus on the following:
- Genetic and nutritional factors influencing the productivity of suckler beef cattle.
- Increasing animal performance and efficiency from both grazed and conserved forages
- Impact of both genetics and nutrition on environmental sustainability of suckler beef production systems
Background:
The beef industry is a major contributor to the value of Ireland’s agri-food sector. For example, the output value of the Irish cattle sector was 16% of Agri-food exports in 2022 generating approximately €3.1 billion. Additionally, beef cattle production is a significant enterprise on over 94,000 farms, which are widely dispersed throughout the country. Teagasc plays a key role in developing and supporting competitive, profitable and sustainable systems of beef production.
These production systems must maximise the use of grazed grass to capitalize on Ireland’s natural competitive advantage in grass production, and to contribute to the high quality, grass-fed reputation of Irish beef worldwide.
Teagasc are seeking to appoint a highly qualified and enthusiastic researcher to develop and lead a cutting research programme to underpin the continued development and sustainability of the Irish suckler beef production sector. The successful candidate’s research programme will have particular emphasis on, but will not be limited to, investigating the impact of animal genetics and nutrition on the biological performance of suckler beef cattle, and how these management interventions influence both economic and environmental sustainability. The programme will also investigate how to further increase animal performance from grazed and conserved forage. This will be a key appointment for Teagasc with national significance in further developing our beef industry over the coming years.
The Grange campus is part of the Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre in Teagasc and has extensive facilities for field and laboratory research. These include pasture and overwintering facilities for in excess of 1100 cattle including 200 beef cows and their progeny to finish. Field and laboratory resources include state of the art electronic individual feed intake and methane emissions measurement equipment; a feed digestibility research unit and a suite of animal nutrition, animal health and molecular biology based laboratories to support a world-class beef cattle research programme.
Indeed, Teagasc has an international reputation for research and development in grass-based systems of livestock production and the successful candidate will work with a dynamic and multidisciplinary team of researchers and knowledge transfer specialists across Teagasc’s Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Programme at Moorepark, Grange and Athenry.
Job Objectives
- Develop, lead and implement a cutting edge research programme on aspects of the breeding and nutrition of suckler beef cattle
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Design and manage experiments; statistically analyse and publish the resulting data.
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Manage staff and resources assigned to the research programme.
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Identify opportunities for cutting-edge research to address key knowledge gaps.
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Lead successful submissions for external funding, that is consistent with the Teagasc research programme, with the objective of developing critical mass in the area by building and supervising a dynamic team of post-doctoral researchers(s) and post-graduate student(s).
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Develop and maintain active collaboration with relevant national and international research organisations.
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Work closely with Teagasc Knowledge Transfer Specialists to ensure effective dissemination of research findings to advisors and stakeholders.
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Supervise, in conjunction with academic collaborator postgraduate students to Masters and PhD level.
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Interpret and publish research results in the scientific and popular press, at conferences (nationally and internationally) and to stakeholders
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Contribute to the teamwork and team spirit in the Animal & Bioscience Department, and foster and add to further collaboration and integration
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To assist Teagasc in meeting the commitments of the Quality Customer Service Charter and Action Plan.
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To actively participate in the annual business planning and Performance Management Development System (PMDS) processes.
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Fully co-operate with the provisions made for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of themselves, fellow staff and non-Teagasc staff and co-operate with management in enabling Teagasc to comply with legal obligations. This includes full compliance with the responsibilities outlined in the Safety Statement.
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Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time
* This job specification is intended as a guide to the general range of duties and is intended to be neither definitive nor restrictive. It will be reviewed from time to time with the post holder.
Skills Requirement
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Essential |
Desirable |
Qualifications |
Note: While a PhD is an essential requirement for this post, equivalent research experience may be deemed acceptable solely at the discretion of the Director of Teagasc. |
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Skills |
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Knowledge |
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As this role will involved driving vehicles, candidates must satisfy and continue to satisfy during employment with Teagasc, legal requirements to drive a car unaccompanied on Irish public roads |
Note: The ‘essential’ qualifications, knowledge, skills and behavioural competencies outlined above are ‘must-have’ which will be used in the selection process.
ECC Presentation Club - Presentation Training Webinar
Speaking at a conference in the near future? Book your place on the ECC presentation webinar which will take place on 19th August at 2PM.
Get specialist training from our Early Career Team in a small group setting.
To reserve your please email communications@bsas.org.uk confirming your name, university/ place of work, year of study and any other information you would like to let the training team know - for example what conference you are presenting at or which theme you are speaking on. It is expected that participants will have a good understanding of the English language.
Participants must prepare a presentation (up to 8 minutes long) in order to get tailored feedback and top tips.
Editor-in-Chief - animal science proceedings
animal – science proceedings is one of the three scientific journals jointly owned by a Consortium comprised of the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS), the European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP) and the Institut National de Recherche pour l’agriculture, l’alimentation et l’environnement (INRAE).
The Consortium is seeking candidates for the position of Editor-in-Chief for animal – science proceedings.
animal – science proceedings publishes high-quality proceedings from conferences, symposia and workshops on aspects of life sciences with emphasis on farmed and other managed animals, leisure and companion animals, and insects. More information about animal – science proceedings can be found on the websites of the Consortium and the publisher.
The Editor-in-chief is responsible for the development of the journal within the framework of the budget defined by the Management Board, to:
- propose the scientific guidelines of the journal to the Management Board
- ensure the scientific quality of the journal
- ensure good relations with conference organisers and with the guest editors for the issue
- ensure harmonious relations with the publisher or printer, or the service provider in charge of digital dissemination of the journal
There are normally between five and nine issues per year that require a time commitment of three working days an issue on average. In addition, about 10 days are required for attendance animal consortium meetings, most of which are virtual. Candidates are expected to have experience in writing scientific articles, to possess good communication skills, and to take initiative while being a team player. The Editor-in-Chief will receive a fixed honorarium for his/her activities.
SRUC Veterinary Investigation Officer
The Opportunity:
Working within the School of Veterinary Medicine and under the direction of the Veterinary Centre Manager in conjunction with colleagues responsible for the integration of educational activities, in this role you will:
- Provide an effective, reliable, and efficient farm animal diagnostic and consultancy service to veterinary surgeons in practice and farmers in the area. Key components of this work include the detailed investigation of farm animal disease outbreaks through post-mortem examination, laboratory diagnostic tests and farm disease investigations.
- Maintain a close working relationship with local veterinarians and farmers to facilitate data collection to inform the trends, distribution, and nature of livestock diseases in the area covered by the Aberdeen Hub. Through this work contributing to the local and national disease surveillance functions of SRUC.
- Investigate in detail unusual outbreaks of farm animal disease in collaboration with veterinary colleagues within SRUC and other specialist institutions.
- Contribute to the education of undergraduates within the School of Veterinary Medicine so ensuring they have developed the skills and understanding related to the importance of disease surveillance and herd health management when they move into their graduate roles.
- Undertake research and develop initiatives with colleagues in SRUC SVM, the wider SRUC family and external institutions.
- Contribute as required to SRUC farmer education and awareness campaigns to promote animal welfare.
- Assist with the Animal Health & Welfare Management Programme by providing support to local vets and farmers.
- Participate in disease eradication and control programme being directed by APHA Service by providing appropriate supporting laboratory services as and when required by the Scottish Government.
- Contribute to the advisory, development and research effort of other departments within SRUC. The VIO should liaise with colleagues within the SRUC advisory service (particularly the specialist dairy, beef and sheep agricultural advisors, nutritionists and building advisors) to support a farm animal health advisory service in the local area.
- Carry out any other duties delegated by the SVM Senior Management Team and veterinary managers of the hubs.
- Work for periods at other SRUC Veterinary Services sites as necessary and as directed by the manager of SRUC.
The post-holder will perform additional duties as directed from time to time by the Line Manager. The post holder must use their initiative in the conduct of their work and always apply sound judgement to ensure that they conduct themselves within the framework of SRUC regulations and procedures.
Minimum Qualifications and Experience:
The ideal candidate will have demonstrable experience in progressive farm animal practice and will preferably have undertaken post graduate study to certificate, masters or diploma level in a given species (cattle, sheep or pigs) or in a related subject eg. pathology. Candidates must have an interest in developing veterinary education to ensure sustainability of veterinary support to the rural environment and be a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. They will be required to undertake the ‘in-house’ educators programme and encouraged to work towards further qualifications whether species or veterinary education based. Teamwork is essential as is a current UK driving license.
Further details on the requirements of this role can be found in the Job Particulars document which you must read before applying for this role.
Funded PhD Studentship: Leveraging metabolomics to reduce copper toxicity in dairy cattle
Location: | Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB |
Salary: | As per advert |
Post Type: | Full Time |
Contract Type: | Fixed Term - 36 Months |
Closing Date: | 23.59 hours BST on Friday 17 May 2024 |
Reference: | RD-PHD-24-JM-R1-MH |
Primary supervisor: Dr James McCaughern, Harper Adams University
Second supervisors: Dr Joe Roberts, Dr Sandy Mackenzie and Professor Liam Sinclair
Project Title: Leveraging metabolomics to reduce copper toxicity in dairy cattle
Successful candidates will receive a yearly stipend (paid monthly) set at the UKRI rate - for 2024/5 this will be £19,237. Harper Adams University is unfortunately unable to offer a fee waiver for international students applying and evidence of funding will be required for International Fee paying students to show they can cover the difference between the UK and international fees for the full four years - for the 2024/5 academic year this amount is £10,890. However, scholarships maybe be available at the time of appointment to cover the difference between UK and International fees for the duration of the programme.
During this studentship, the successful applicant is expected to develop sought-after technical skills in the fields of animal nutrition, health and welfare. Applicants must hold a minimum of a 2:1 or equivalent bachelor's degree in an appropriate subject /high grade point average bachelor's degree for international applicants or a 2.2 alongside a suitable Master's Degree. Potential for research based on alternative qualifications/experience as judged acceptable by the university, will be considered on a case by case basis.
Project description:
Background:
Metabolomics is a technique that utilises advanced analytical chemistry to provide researchers with a more complete picture of the animal’s phenotype at the metabolic level (Taylor et al., 2022). The ability to detect and quantify a large number of metabolites within a single sample is helping develop a greater understanding of systems-wide biology across a range of scientific disciplines, and to identify new diagnostic tests (Monteiro et al., 2013). Despite increasing popularity within other fields, the ability to generate significant steps forward within animal science remains relatively untapped.
One such area where metabolomics can serve to improve animal health, welfare and performance is the dietary supplementation of copper (Cu) to dairy cattle (Atkins et al., 2021; Sinclair et al., 2013; 2017). There are many biological consequences of an inadequate dietary Cu supply, such as anaemia and impaired growth (Suttle et al., 2022). In contrast, there is now substantial evidence of a significant over-supply of Cu to winter-fed dairy cattle within the UK, with a mean dietary Cu concentration of 28 mg/kg of DM reported by Sinclair and Atkins (2015), well in excess of the recommended 9-11 mg/kg DM (NASEM, 2021; NRC, 2001). Reasons for this elevated Cu-status on farm are unclear, but may result from a perception within the feed industry that “more is better” (McCaughern et al., 2020). However, recent evidence from long-term studies at Harper Adams University has clearly demonstrated significant sub-clinical consequences as a result of over-feeding Cu (McCaughern, 2020). For example, McCaughern et al. (2024) identified both a decline in fertility, coupled with negative effects on liver function and the immune system when replacement Holstein-Friesian dairy heifers were fed dietary Cu concentrations above requirements. Milk yield and fertility in early lactation were also compromised (McCaughern, 2020). These findings provide very strong evidence for a revision of Cu feeding limits, both nationally and internationally. Metabolomics can add further weight to these arguments by identifying the key biological pathways responsible for these phenotypic changes, as well as identifying new indicators of Cu status.
Aims and objectives:
To utilise samples that have been biobanked from previous research studies on the bioavailability of Cu and the long-term effect of over-feeding Cu to growing and lactating dairy cattle to:
- Profile the biological changes which occur in dairy cattle as a result of an altered Cu status;
- Identify novel indicators of Cu status and toxicity in growing and lactating dairy cattle
- Produce 3 to 4 internationally excellent papers in peer reviewed journals
Methodology:
Six dairy cattle studies have been undertaken at Harper Adams University in the last 10 years to determine factors influencing Cu availability and the effect of long-term over-feeding of Cu on growing and lactating dairy cattle (Atkins et al., 2020; McCaughern et al., 2020, 2024; Sinclair et al., 2017, Williams et al., 2024). During these studies intake, fertility and milk yield were recorded, and the Cu status and immune function monitored through regular blood and liver biopsy sampling. These samples have been biobanked pending further analyses. In this project blood plasma samples will undergo non-targeted metabolomic analysis according to Icely et al. (2024- pre-submission), to determine the changes in the animal’s metabolism. Blood plasma collected concurrently with liver samples will also be used to scope novel indicators of Cu status, and help facilitate the development of new veterinary tests for Cu status and toxicity in cattle.
Candidates are encouraged to contact Dr James McCaughern to discuss the project before applying if they wish to.
Contact:Dr James McCaughern, Harper Adams University
Clinical Training Scholar (SCTS) in Small Animal Cardiology
Clinical Training Scholar (SCTS) in Small Animal Cardiology
The Scholarship is for one year in the first instance, renewable for periods of one year up to a total of three years.
The Scholarship provides an outstanding opportunity to receive specialist training in all aspects of small animal cardiology and is available to start from December 2024.
You will receive core training in all aspects of clinical cardiology, including interventional procedures and transoesophageal echocardiography. You will also be required to undertake and publish a research project. The training programme is approved by the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ECVIM-CA).
The Scholar will be required to register for the Diploma of the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. The training programme requires participation in the Department's clinical service, including the out-of-hours rota and first opinion practice, in addition to small-group teaching of veterinary students.
You must be a Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, or hold a veterinary degree qualifying you for membership. Membership will be required prior to commencing the Scholarship. Completion of an appropriate internship or a minimum of two years' experience in small animal practice is essential.
The internship has an abundance of benefits such as:
- Tax-free stipend
- Academic opportunities, e.g. teach Cambridge students during rotations and College supervision opportunities; weekly Department research and clinical seminars; journal and book clubs
- Generous CPD allowance
For more information on benefits and our internship programmes: https://www.hospital.vet.cam.ac.uk/qvsh/internship-and-residency-programmes
Informal enquiries should be directed to Jose Novo Matos (Principal Clinical Cardiologist) by email: jms330@cam.ac.uk
Interviews will be held on Wednesday, 5th of June 2024.
A SCTS application form (SCTS1) and information pack can be downloaded from the following website: https://www.vet.cam.ac.uk/job.
Applicants should supply a completed SCTS Application Form (SCTS1), Curriculum Vitae and Covering Letter giving reasons for wishing to undertake the SCTS in the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge.
Applications should be submitted via e-mail to vetmed@vet.cam.ac.uk with the above documents as one attachment, by the closing date stated.
Applications will be monitored regularly, and we may contact candidates prior to the closing date. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
Please quote reference PP41325 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
2024 ASAS-CSAS-WSASAS Annual Meeting
The 2024 Annual Meeting will take place at the Calgary TELUS convention Centre. Calgary is located in Western Canada in the province of Alberta nestled in the foothills of the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains.
See website for further informations https://www.asas.org/meetings/annual-2024/abstract-and-program-information
EAAP Adaptation of mountain livestock farming to global change
On behalf of the French Organising Committee, we are very delighted to invite you to attend the Mountain Livestock Farming Systems Meeting co-organised by the European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP), VetAgro Sup and INRAE to be held in Clermont Ferrand, the capital of the Auvergne, from June 5th to 7th, 2024.
The general topic of this Congress will be Adaptation of mountain livestock farming to climate change. Different sessions will be jointly organised to cover various areas of knowledge related to Interaction between farming systems and wildlife, Product quality and mountain farming, and several other topics.
Sessions
- Adaptation of mountain livestock farming to climate change
- Interaction between farming systems and wildlife
- Product quality and mountain farming
- Ecosystem services of mountain farming
- Local breeds
- Social role of livestock in mountain area
- Forage systems for mountain livestock
- Solution to enhance economy of livestock farming systems
- New technologies for mountain livestock
- Transhumance in European mountains – challenges and perspective
- Health and welfare of mounain farming system animals
Milking the Data: Value-Driven Dairy Farming Conference
Conference Objective
Precision dairy farming (PDF) is a collection of cutting technologies designed for the automatic, real-time monitoring of cow welfare, health, environmental impact, and production. It is recognized as a high priority for achieving policy goals in many countries worldwide, as it enables the transition towards more resilient and sustainable dairy farming practices. In 2016, the Discover Conference on Big Data Dairy Management discussed the potential of big data analyses and technology in the dairy industry. Since 2016, enormous progress has been made in the field of artificial intelligence, sensing technology and data analyses in all domains. While such progress brings excitement to advance the dairy industry toward sustainable systems, it is crucial to address the current challenges facing data-driven dairy, including data privacy concerns, data standardization, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between animal science, engineering, and computer science.
This conference is an opportunity to bring together various stakeholders to establish a shared understanding of the current state of precision dairy farming technologies and data governance and identify obstacles to successful implementation. Insights gained from this conference can help inform and influence policy decisions, ensuring that the regulatory environment supports the growth and sustainability of the dairy industry.
Who Should Attend?
This program will address issues important to university, government, and industry researchers; university extension specialists; software developers, precision dairy technology manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, genetics providers, consultants, nutritionists, producers, and veterinarians. Graduate Students and early career professionals are especially encouraged to attend.
David Elliott
From a family of animal journals to a family of organizations
The animal family of journals (i.e. animal, animal – open space, and animal – science proceedings) is jointly owned by a Consortium composed of the EAAP, BSAS, and INRAE and published by Elsevier on behalf of the Consortium.
To widen and strengthen the scientific basis of the family of journals, the Consortium is delighted and honoured to announce that IRTA has become an associated party of the Consortium. Together, the four organizations will determine the scientific policy of the journals in a rapidly changing landscape of scientific publishing.
IRTA, the Institute of Agrifood and Technology Research under the Regional Government of Catalonia, is dedicated to promoting research and technological development in agri-food, including animal science. IRTA scientists frequently contribute by publishing in “animal” and actively participating in the editorial team.
The IRTA team has decided to support the scientific direction of the journals and showcase their partnership in animal science publishing. Maria Font i Furnols, an animal science researcher at IRTA and the current deputy editor-in-chief of “animal,” played a crucial role in facilitating these activities within the new partnership.
The “Animal Consortium” is delighted to announce IRTA as the first organization to engage in this innovative relationship with the “Animal Consortium”. The Consortium plans to establish similar partnerships with other research organizations in the field of animal science.
Nicholas Jonsson
Tianhai Yan Awarded the 2024 Sir John Hammond Award for Outstanding Contributions in Animal Science
The British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) and the British Cattle Breeders Club (BCBC) proudly announce Dr. Tianhai Yan as the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Sir John Hammond Award. This esteemed award recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to animal science through research, teaching, knowledge exchange, breeding, farming, industry, or affiliated professions.
Dr. Tianhai Yan, Programme Leader and Head of Ruminant Nutrition Unit at the Agri-Food and Bioscience Institute (AFBI), has been selected as this year's recipient for his outstanding achievements and significant impact on the field of animal science. With a career spanning multiple decades, Dr. Yan has demonstrated exemplary dedication and innovation in his work, earning the respect and admiration of his peers worldwide.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Yan has published over 152 papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals, authored 9 scientific book chapters, and presented 204 abstracts in national and international scientific conferences. His research has significantly advanced our understanding of ruminant nutrition, metabolism, and emissions modelling, influencing policy and industry practices both locally and globally.
Notably, Dr. Yan's groundbreaking research on cattle methane and nitrogen emissions has played a pivotal role in shaping government environmental policy. His work has not only contributed to environmental sustainability but has also directly benefited the dairy and beef production industries in the United Kingdom. Dr. Yan's updated energy rationing models in the 'Feed into Milk' and 'Feed into Beef' programs have revolutionised industry practices, enhancing efficiency and productivity.
In addition to his research contributions, Dr. Yan has demonstrated a profound commitment to education and mentorship. He has supervised and co-supervised 14 PhD students and continues to mentor 8 PhD students from various institutions. Dr. Yan's dedication to nurturing the next generation of scientists has had a lasting impact on the field of animal science, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence in research and innovation.
BCBC Chair Andy King added 'It is an honour to have been part of the judging panel and to announce Tianhai Yan as the recipient of the Sir John Hammond Award for 2024 in recognition of the depth of research that he has undertaken over a considerable period of time. Not only has this been of very practical relevance in cattle production it is now an essential contribution towards policy development in tackling the challenge around Climate change'
The panel's decision to award Dr. Tianhai Yan with the 2024 Sir John Hammond Award was unanimous, recognising his exemplary achievements, leadership, and unwavering dedication to advancing the field of animal science. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the industry and will continue to shape the future of animal science for years to come.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Tianhai Yan on this well-deserved honour.
14 PhD positions in the MSCA Doctoral Network project BullNet
Organisation/Company: University of Limerick
Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)
Country: Ireland
Application Deadline: 2 May 2024 - 15:00 (Europe/Dublin)
Type of Contract: Temporary
Job Status: Full-time
Hours Per Week: 35-40 depending on organisation
Offer Starting Date:1 Sep 2024
Offer Description
BullNet is a Marie Curie Doctoral Training Network focused on understanding and improving bull fertility. It will hire and train 14 PhD students (Doctoral Candidates) in a diverse range of disciplines while addressing key industry relevant research questions. It comprises a multi-disciplinary and inter-sectorial research programme designed to unravel the complex underlying biology of compromised fertility of individual bulls. Cutting-edge basic, applied and machine-learning approaches will be used to understand the biological regulation of sperm function and testis biology in order to optimise fertility.
This will ensure the delivery of a robust, flexible semen product from young, appropriately reared and managed, first-season elite sires that can be used successfully for artificial insemination (AI) with predictable and consistent fertility, so as to provide the industry with key tools to meet current emissions and animal welfare demands. BullNet will also lead to the advancement of knowledge in how bull management strategies and semen processing affect the functional and molecular characteristics of sperm, thus opening scientific horizons for new applications in the area of assisted reproduction.
This is an exciting opportunity to work with the world leaders in the area of bull fertility. While each Doctoral Candidate will be based at one of the partner institutions, they will participate in network wide training events which consist of in-person training weeks with workshops, practical sessions, seminars etc as well as online invited sessions every 3 months. All Doctoral Candidates will get an opportunity for a 3- to 6- month secondment in industry.
While a background in reproduction is highly desirable we are seeking are seeking DCs in the following areas as they apply to animal reproduction.
For application process queries, contact bullnet@ul.ie
For informal queries about the project you are interested in, contact the academics listed below. The list of positions are as follows:
DC1:
Title: The concurrent and latent impact of inflammatory conditions on the fertility and robustness of intensively reared bulls
Host: Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Grange, Co Meath, Ireland
Main Supervisor: Prof David Kenny (Teagasc Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Grange, Ireland; David.kenny@teagasc.ie); Prof Pat Lonergan (University College Dublin; pat.lonergan@ucd.ie)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of the nutritional control of reproduction in cattle.
Project Description: Metabolic acidosis arising from subacute ruminal acidosis (induced by feeding high grain diets) has been associated with altered metabolic function however, the latent effect on the musculoskeletal and reproductive systems are not clear. The objectives are (i)Clearly define the incidence and reasons for culling in natural service and AI bulls using data from the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation and AI industry databases, with specific emphasis on musculoskeletal disorders. (ii) Establish an in vivo model of metabolic inflammatory pathology whereby peripubertal bulls are individually intensively fed on a high or moderate grain diet from 5 months and slaughtered at 15 months of age: 1. Characterise the concurrent and latent metabolic, physiological and immunological response. 2. Assess libido and conduct detailed semen quality analysis including computer assisted sperm assessment, in vitro functional assays etc. and 3. Conduct detailed morphological, histopathological and molecular analyses of key metabolic organs (i.e. liver) and musculoskeletal tissue.
DC2:
Title: Molecular plasticity in male germ cells during spermatogenesis
Host: INRAE, Paris, France
Main Supervisor: Dr Helene Kiefer (INRAE, France;helene.kiefer@inrae.fr)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of molecular techniques and bioinformatics is an advantage.
Project Description: The epigenome of germ cells is sensitive to environmental variations but there is no data about the molecular changes occurring during spermatogenesis. We therefore hypothesise that the effects of high energy/grain diets during rearing on testicular function are partly mediated by epigenetic modifications. The objectives are (i) Isolate pure populations of spermatogenic male germ cells from mature testes. (ii) Describe the molecular variations that can be observed between the different spermatogenic stages. (iii) Investigate whether high energy diets offered during rearing affect these variations, and relate the diet-induced modifications to testicular function. (iv) Investigate whether high energy diets offered during rearing affect the sperm epigenome.
DC3:
Title: Effect of sperm exposure to epididymal extracellular vesicles (EVs) on sperm miRNA cargo, regulation of the female reproductive environment, and embryo developmental competence
Host: Spanish National Research Council (CSIC – INIA), Madrid, Spain;
Main Supervisor: Dr Beatriz Fernandez-Fuertes (CSIC- INIA, Spain; beatriz.fernandez@inia.csic.es); Prof Sean Fair (University of Limerick; sean.fair@ul.ie)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of molecular techniques is an advantage.
Project Description: The sperm epigenome can be modified as they migrate through the epididymis of the bull and this can be altered by diet. The specific objectives are to (i) Determine the effect of bull sperm exposure to epididymal EVs on sperm function, miRNA cargo, embryo development and gene expression, as well as the regulation of the oviduct and uterine environments. (ii) Evaluate changes in epididymal EV cargo in response to different diets, with a focus on miRNA. (iii) Determine differences in maternal response and embryo development between sperm exposed to epididymal EVs isolated from bulls fed high or moderate grain diets.
DC4:
Title: Evaluation of the impact of the bull diet on the epididymal and ejaculated sperm quality
Host: Université Clermont Auvergne, France
Main Supervisor: Prof. Joël Drevet (Université Clermont Auvergne, France; joel.drevet@uca.fr); Dr Fabrice Saez, Université Clermont Auvergne, France; fabrice.saez@uca.fr)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of molecular techniques is an advantage.
Project Description: The modification of the sperm proteome during epididymal maturation in the bull is poorly understood. The objectives are to (i) Characterize the proteome of extracellular vesicles responsible for a large part of epididymal sperm protein maturation, i.e. epididymosomes. (ii) Characterize the proteome of seminal extracellular vesicles involved in post-ejaculatory sperm maturation. (iii) Correlate these data with the sperm proteome, both in epididymal and ejaculated cells, as a function of diet. (iv) Investigate the nutritional impact of different diets on epididymal and ejaculate sperm quality, focusing on sperm nuclear integrity (condensation, oxidation and fragmentation), as well as oxidative stress at post-testicular and systemic levels.
DC5:
Title: Identification and characterisation of antibacterial defence mechanisms in bull semen
Host: Institute for Reproduction of Farm Animals Schönow, Germany
Main Supervisor: Prof Martin Schulze (Institute for Reproduction of Farm Animals Schönow, Germany; m.schulze@ifn-schoenow.de);
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of microbiological, spermatology and molecular techniques is an advantage.
Project Description: Bacterial killing activity of seminal fluid is known across several species, including the bull. However, to what extent the microbiome influences the occurrence of the bacterial killing activity against specific gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria in individual bulls has not been studied. The objectives are: (i) Collect seminal plasma (SP) from AI bulls (summer vs. winter), determine bacterial killing activity (BKA) & sort bulls based on the level of BKA (high or low) against gram+, gram- bacteria, or both (four groups, 1-4). (ii) Determine the microbiological profile of the test group ejaculates (16S rDNA sequencing). (iii) Analyze post-thaw sperm quality of the test groups using an extended spectrum of spermatological methods (e.g. thermo-resistance, mitochondrial activity, membrane integrity, multi-color assay, etc.) and relate it to BKA. (iv) Identify and isolate possible BKA-exerting components from SP samples (e.g. proteomics analyses, 2D SDS page, MALDI, etc.). (v) Characterize fertilizing capacity of ejaculates with low and high BKA (e.g. IVF, AI trials, non-return rate).
DC6:
Title: Predicting and improving cryotolerance in bull semen
Host: Institute for Reproduction of Farm Animals Schönow, Germany
Main Supervisor: Prof Martin Schulze (Institute for Reproduction of Farm Animals Schönow, Germany; m.schulze@ifn-schoenow.de); Prof Sean Fair (University of Limerick, Ireland; sean.fair@ul.ie)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of spermatology and molecular techniques is an advantage.
Project Description: Bulls vary in the cryotolerance of their semen for reasons that are not fully understood.The objectives are: (i) Characterise and interrogate the relationship between the lipidome, proteome, and exosome of undiluted and sex sorted semen from bulls categorised as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ freezers. (ii) Establish a predictive model of bull cryotolerance in both conventional and sex-sorted semen by using omics data in combination with pre-and post-freeze motility, antioxidant capacity, membrane integrity, fluidity, and stability. (iii) Investigate the effect of altering sperm cryopreservation media components including antioxidants (e.g Hydroxytyrasol) and membrane stabilizers (e.g. cholesterol, lecithin), and the effects of the deep interactions among these components and specific dilution, cooling and equilibration processing techniques on the cryotolerance of semen from bulls categorised as good and bad freezers. (iv) Assess temperature dependent volume response and osmotic tolerance in sperm from good and bad freezers, the effects of antioxidants and membrane stabilizers on these properties, and correlate these data with lipidome and proteome differences. Identify media components that should be used in cryopreservation medium to mitigate osmotic damage both during glycerol equilibration and during cooling for both good and bad freezers.
DC7:
Title: Sperm modulation of the female adaptive immune response
Host: University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
Main Supervisor: Prof Sean Fair (University of Limerick, Ireland; sean.fair@ul.ie)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of molecular techniques as applied to spermatology and immunology is an advantage.
Project Description: Bull sperm are immunogenic in the uterus and we have recently demonstrated that sperm from high fertility bulls have a more active transcriptomic response leading to more rapid clearing of the endometrium of sperm as well as priming the endometrium for implantation. The objectives are (i) Using an established in vitro uterine explant model characterise the physiological role for sperm subpopulations (motile and non-motile) on the uterine immune response using a panel of pro-inflammatory genes and proteins. (ii) Using an in vivo model, investigate the uterine exposure of sperm from high and low field fertility bulls on the modulation of cytokine signalling, inflammation and immune response pathways both locally in the uterus as well as regionally in the cervix, uterine horn and oviduct. (iii) Investigate the effect of uterine conditioning by sperm from high and low fertility bulls during oestrus, on the developmental competence of in vitro derived embryos transferred to heifers on Day 7 and recovered on Day 15. (iv) Assess if repeated exposure of the endometrium of heifers with sperm dampens the immune response and, if so, what cells are being dampened
DC8:
Title: Paternal sncRNAs legacy to the early embryo
Host: University College Dublin, Lyons Research Farm, Newcastle, Dublin, Ireland
Main Supervisor: Prof Pat Lonergan (University College Dublin; pat.lonergan@ucd.ie)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of embryology and molecular techniques is an advantage.
Project Description: Sperm can alter DNA methylation patterns, mRNAs, small non-coding RNAs, and proteins in the embryo after fertilisation. The objectives are to (i) Study the dynamics mRNAs/sncRNA expression in the early embryo at several key stages (blastocyst, elongating conceptus) (ii) Analyse the influence of sperm sncRNAs on embryonic gene expression (iii) Infer causal networks and disrupted pathways from these data (iv) Explore in-depth the role of some key networks involved in embryo development.
Students will receive training on in vitro fertilisation and embryo production, non-invasive integration of sncRNAs in embryos, quantification of gene expression in the early embryo and bioinformatic analysis through courses at UCD and secondments abroad.
DC9:
Title: Distributed machine-learning for the prediction of fertility; FAIR data management, methods to handle privacy sensitive data, knowledge graphs.
Host: University of Cologne, Germany
Main Supervisor: Prof Oya Beyan (University of Cologne; oya.beyan@uni-koeln.de); Prof. Stefan Wesner (wesner@uni-koeln.de), Prof Achim Tresch (University of Cologne; achim.tresch@uni-koeln.de)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in computer science, statistics, big data, machine learning or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of FAIR management systems and knowledge graph database systems is an advantage.
Project Description: Analysing complex data sets, such as sperm quality data, requires the secure integration of heterogeneous and cost-intensive modification of data format. Moreover, lack of transparency about data quality and provenance is a cause for severe reproducibility and reusability issues. The objectives are to (i) Acquisition and curation of a high-quality data set that follows the FAIR principles (findable, accessible, interoperable, reusable) that serves as input to machine-learning algorithms. Introduction of standardized vocabularies and ontologies. (ii) Development of data connectors (software interfaces) to secure data access from every participating animal breeding centre. Improvements in existing workflows and data-processing pipelines, following compliance with domain standards and practices. (iii) Introduction of a data usage license management. Identify different license types, develop machine-readable versions of them. Automate validation of certificates. (iv) Create knowledge graph database by embedding heterogenous data sets (sperm quality, genomics, transcriptomics, microbiome, field fertility) and applying privacy preserving techniques to query the sensitive data without revealing the proprietary information.
DC10:
Title: Development of machine-learning tools for the prediction of fertility; Building of classifiers and data analysis
Host: University of Cologne, Germany
Main Supervisor: Prof Achim Tresch (University of Cologne; achim.tresch@uni-koeln.de); Prof Oya Beyan (University of Cologne; oya.beyan@uni-koeln.de)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in machine learning, statistics, data analytics, applied mathematics or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of advanced machine-learning techniques is an advantage.
Project Description:
Most studies predicting the fertility of conventional semen only have field data at the bull level which is a major limitation. This project aims to relate in vitro sperm quality and molecular data of sex-sorted semen at the ejaculate level to field fertility. The objectives are to (i) Quantify the inter- and intra-ejaculate variability of sperm quality and its impact on fertility in a multi-centric study, using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) and flow cytometry data from replicate samples from hundreds of bulls from each breeding centre used for sex sorting. (ii) Quantify the dependency of molecular data (sperm transcriptomics and microbiome datasets) and microscopically determined sperm parameters (CASA, flow cytometry). (iii) Use advanced machine-learning techniques and variable selection/dimension reduction to improve the prediction of the primary endpoints including cryotolerance and the fertility of sex-sorted and conventional semen. Data integration of further molecular covariates (16s rDNA, structural DNA variants, proteomics) and testing for their added predictive value. (iv) Establish an analysis workflow, together with a software tool for the selection of ejaculates/bulls by breeding centres..
DC11:
Title: Potential vectors modulating sperm-to-sperm interaction for improving sperm quality and fertility
Host: University of Zurich, Switzerland
Main Supervisor: Prof Heinrich Bollwein (University of Zurich; Switzerland; heinrich.bollwein@uzh.ch); Dr Eleni Malana (University of Zurich; Switzerland; emalama@vetclinics.uzh.ch)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of spermatology and molecular techniques is an advantage.
Project Description: It has been shown that heterospermic insemination doses, has improved post-thaw sperm quality characteristics compared to homospermic doses and here we hypothesis that exosomes contained in the seminal plasma mediate sperm-to-sperm interactions. The objectives are: (i) To establish a model of good vs. bad freezers (sires with good vs. suboptimal sperm cryotolerance) based on a combination of pre-freeze vs. post-thaw sperm quality parameters and the quantitative characteristics of extracellular vesicles (exosomes) identified in the seminal plasma (SP). (ii) To characterise the secretion/molecular content (miRNA/sncRNA) of seminal exosomes (SE) in sperm of good vs. bad freezers. (iii) To characterise and compare the effects of whole SP, SP depleted of SE (SPdSE) and SE collected from good vs. bad freezers on fertility-relevant sperm quality parameters and developmental rates of in vitro produced embryos. (iv) To explore the role of SE in sperm-to-sperm interaction by comparing the sperm quality traits, the profile and miRNA cargo of SE in heterospermic vs. homospermic semen samples
DC12:
Title: The contribution of structural variants to quantitative variation in the establishment of pregnancy
Host: Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) of Zurich; Switzerland
Main Supervisor: Prof Hubert Pausch (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology of Zurich; Switzerland; hubert.pausch@usys.ethz.ch)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in computational genomics, genetics, animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. Knowledge of bioinformatics and computational genomic techniques, as well as experience with a programming language is a prerequisite.
Project Description: It is becoming increasingly evident (from species other than cattle), that structural variants are likely to have larger effects on phenotypes than SNPs and Indels but are not well captured by SNPs. The objectives are to (i) Identify structural variants (>50 bp) in the genome of bulls with low and high field fertility success (selected from ~3,500 genotyped AI bulls with field fertility data) from long sequencing reads mapped against a bovine pangenome. (ii) Derive structural variant genotypes from the pangenome and impute them into large and densely genotyped mapping cohorts with gene expression and fertility-related phenotypes. (iii) Association testing between structural variant genotypes and complex trait phenotypes (1300 Brown Swiss AI bulls with detailed semen quality records from ~70,000 ejaculates and field fertility data, as well as RNAseq-derived gene expression from testis, epididymis and vas deferens of 120 whole-genome sequenced bulls) to identify trait-associated structural variants. (iv) Partitioning of the heritability by variant annotations and transcriptome-wide association testing to quantify the contribution of structural variants to the genetic variation of traits relevant for male fertility.
DC13:
Title: Post-testicular maturation markers to monitor bull fertility
Host: University of Nottingham, United Kingdom
Main Supervisor: Prof. Ravinder Anand-Ivell (University of Nottingham; ravinder.anand-ivell@nottingham.ac.uk); Prof Richard Ivell (University of Nottingham; richard.ivell@nottingham.ac.uk)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of cell culture and molecular techniques is an advantage.
Project Description: There is no published information on the development of the epididymal secretome through puberty, or whether this is synchronized to the appearance of sperm in the first ejaculates and hence to their fertility. The objectives are: (i) Develop a robust method to assess epididymal biomarkers of post-testicular sperm maturation in mature bulls comparing freshly ejaculated, diluted (with extender), and frozen-thawed preparations, as well as caudal epididymal and testicular sperm. (ii) Using a biomarker approach, compare the post-testicular (epididymal) sperm proteome from pubertal development to sexual maturity at bi-weekly intervals, and after nutritional modulation, thereby determining whether epididymal maturation develops synchronously with other sperm parameters. (iii) Characterise regulation of the mature bull epididymal secretome using primary cell culture. (iv) Monitor the role of INSL3, its receptor RXFP2, and related relaxin family hormones in the epididymis of the bull and assess their influence on semen quality.
DC14:
Title: Semen microbiome and its relationship to fertility
Host: Queens University Belfast, United Kingdom
Main Supervisor: Prof Sharon Huws (Queens University Belfast, United Kingdom s.huws@qub.ac.uk); Prof David Kenny (Teagasc Grange, Ireland; David.kenny@teagasc.ie)
Duration: 36 months starting July to September 2024
Profile: A candidate with a master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, biological science or aligned field. In-depth knowledge of microbiological and molecular techniques is an advantage.
Project Description: Bull semen has a rich microbiome but the origin and impact of this on sperm quality, cryotolerance and field fertility is unclear. The objectives are: (i) Characterise the diversity of the bull semen microbiome in neat semen and determine whether these microbiomes influence semen quality. (ii) Investigate the origin (lab, prepuce, epididymis testes, seminal glands) of semen microbiome and the effects of sperm processing and cryopreservation. (iii) Investigate the effects of key bacterial isolates isolated from (i) and (ii) on sperm quality and cryotolerance and field fertility after artificial insemination. (iv) Determine the effects of seminal exosomes on semen microbiomes in vitro.
Requirements
Research Field: Biological sciences » Other
Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
Depending on the position the candidates are applying for, applicants must demonstrate good knowledge in any of the following areas:
- Animal/Veterinary Science
- Animal Nutrition
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Embryology
- Cell Biology including Sperm Cell Biology
- Data Science and Machine Learning
- For specific degree requirements, check ‘Profile’ within each project description (under DC1, DC2, DC3 etc).
- An in-depth knowledge of microbiological and molecular techniques is an advantage but not mandatory.
- Applicants must speak and write fluently in English
Languages: ENGLISH
Level: Excellent
Additional Information
The candidates will be employed according to the MSCA Doctoral Network rules and follow the regulations of the hosting institution. The financial package will include the monthly researcher allowances subdivided into
1) a living allowance of €3,400 per month (country correction coefficient applies - The living allowance is a gross amount, including compulsory deductions under national law, such as employer and employee social security contributions and direct taxes)
2) a mobility allowance of €600 per month and,
3) a family allowance (€660) per month, where applicable*.
Doctoral candidates will be given an employment contract for 36 months by their host institution and will be entitled to full employee benefits and inclusion in social security schemes of the host country.
You have the chance to join a comprehensive, interactive and international training programme, as well as training across international institutions
- Supported researchers: applicants must be doctoral candidates, i.e., not already in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment. Researchers who have successfully defended their doctoral thesis but who have not yet formally been awarded the doctoral degree will not be considered eligible.
- Mobility rule: researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity (e.g., work, studies) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their recruitment date.
Application Procedure
Applications (in English) must include the following documents in a single PDF file:
1. Cover letter (max 500 words) including a statement why you are suited for this position, your expected impact on the project and your preferred top 3 ranked projects (e.g. 1. DC1, 2. DC2, 3. DC3 with 1 being your first choice) if more than one would be suitable for you.
In your cover letter, please indicate if you are open to being considered for other projects outside of your top 3 that are listed in this advert.
2. Curriculum vitae (max 3 pages) - the CV must be without gaps, in order to easily check the mobility and experience requirements.
3. Transcripts of B.Sc. and M.Sc. courses, including grades.
4. One written academic reference included
In case the Master’s Degree has not been obtained at the closing date for application, the candidate has to submit a declaration signed by their supervisor or University official stating that the degree will be obtained by the time of PhD enrolment (1st September 2024)
Please send your application documents in a single PDF to bullnet@ul.ie.
The subject line of the email must be in the following format: “BullNet: application for DC##_Title of PhD project”. The closing date for applications is 2 May 2024 at 15.00 Dublin time. Ineligible or incomplete applications will not be considered.
The candidates will initially be evaluated on the basis of the received documents against the following criteria:
• Academic record
• Scientific quality of the applicant’s CV
• Expected individual impact and benefit to the fellow and to the project
• Previous experience in the subject areas of Bullnet
Shortlisting and Interviews
The short-listed candidates will then be interviewed by a panel that will include the recruiting PIs plus additional consortium members with a balance in terms of gender and varied sector experience. Candidates, positively evaluated but not initially selected, will be put on a reserve list.
The selection procedure will be open, transparent, and merit-based, fully aligned with the EURAXESS Code of Conduct (https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/charter/code). Although the selection will be based on the quality of applications, gender balance will also be considered.
Recruitment calendar:
Call opening: 8 April 2024
Deadline for applications: 2 May 2024 15.00
Remote evaluation: Mid-May 2024
Interviews: Late May to early June 2024
Notification to candidates: Mid to late June 2024
Start date for the doctoral candidates: 1 September 2024
Work Location(s)
Number of offers available: 14
Company/Institute: Across Europe - See specific project description (under DC1, DC2, DC3 etc) for more information on lead institution
Country: Ireland
State/Provinc: Limerick
City: Castletroy
Postal Code: V94 T9PX
Prof. David Kenny Appointed as President of the British Society of Animal Science Marking a Milestone for Ireland
The British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) proudly announces the appointment of Professor David Kenny as its new President, marking a significant milestone as only the second president based in the Republic of Ireland. Prof. Kenny follows in the footsteps of Dr. Jim O’Grady, who served from 1990 to 1991, in representing Ireland's vibrant contributions to the field of animal science.
Prof. Kenny's presidency comes at an exciting time, coinciding with the announcement that the BSAS Annual Conference in 2025 will be hosted in Galway, Ireland, from 8th to 10th April. The theme, "Animal Science supporting livestock's role in a global society," underscores the critical role of animal science in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the livestock industry worldwide.
Prof. Kenny's appointment reinforces the society's commitment to driving collaboration among scientists, industry professionals, and policymakers to address pressing challenges and opportunities in livestock farming [and animal welfare] and nurturing the next generation of animal scientists. His dedication to excellence and passion for advancing the field make him an ideal choice to lead the society forward.
"We are delighted to welcome Prof. David Kenny as our new President," said Maggie Mitchell, CEO of the British Society of Animal Science. "His extensive expertise and leadership qualities will be invaluable as we continue to drive advancements in animal science for the benefit of society and the environment."
Expressing his gratitude and enthusiasm, Prof. Kenny stated, "I am honoured and privileged to lead the British Society of Animal Science as president for the next 12 months. The society continues to play a pivotal role as a platform for the widespread dissemination of state-of-the-art research findings, professional development, education, and as a representative body for the animal science sector."
As Head of the Teagasc Animal and Bioscience Research Department in Ireland, Prof. Kenny brings over 25 years of research experience to his new role. His expertise spans a wide range of topics, including the biological control of economically important traits in ruminant livestock production systems, ruminal methanogenesis, and the development and functionality of the rumen microbiome.
Prof. Kenny's commitment to research and education is exemplified by his supervision of 19 Ph.D. and numerous M.Sc. students. his extensive publication record, which includes over 200 internationally peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts and book chapters. He is a recognised leader in the field, serving as the incoming president of BSAS, president of the Physiology Study Commission of the European Association of Animal Production, and a member of the management board of the international scientific journal, animal.
Among his many accolades, Prof. Kenny was awarded the prestigious Hammond Award by BSAS in 2018 for his outstanding contributions to understanding how nutrition affects economically important traits in cattle. Beyond his academic pursuits, Prof. Kenny is deeply involved in the agricultural community, running a beef and sheep farm in County Mayo, Ireland, and actively engaging with the beef cattle sector and wider agricultural industry.
"I intend to work closely with the presidential team and the Trustees to further grow the society's membership, events, publications, and training opportunities," Prof. Kenny affirmed. "Together, we will continue the diligent work of our predecessors in ensuring the viability and continued development of BSAS into the future."
Prof. David Kenny's presidency heralds a new chapter for the British Society of Animal Science, marked by innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to advancing the frontiers of animal science for the betterment of society and the environment.
About the British Society of Animal Science:
The British Society of Animal Science is a leading professional organisation dedicated to advancement of animal science. Through its activities, the society promotes collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation among researchers, educators, industry professionals, and policymakers to address global challenges in animal agriculture and sustainability.
About Prof. David Kenny:
Professor David Kenny is Head of the Teagasc Animal and Bioscience Research Department in Ireland. He has over 25 years of research experience in the biological control of a range of economically important traits to ruminant livestock production systems, including growth and reproductive efficiency, ruminal methanogenesis and the development and functionality of the rumen microbiome. He has supervised the studies of 19 Ph.D. and nine M.Sc. students to completion, as principal supervisor and his research has resulted in the publication of over 200 full length internationally peer reviewed scientific manuscripts and book chapters to-date. He is the incoming president of the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS; April 2024), president of the Physiology Study Commission of the European Association of Animal Production and is a member of the management board of the international scientific journal, Animal. He has led many large research consortia and is currently co-ordinator of the recently awarded €5m Horizon Europe project, ‘Towards sustainable livestock systems: European platform for evidence building and transitioning policy (STEP UP)’. He was awarded the prestigious Hammond award by BSAS in 2018 in recognition of outstanding contribution to an improved understanding of how nutrition affects the complex underlying biology regulating economically important traits in cattle, including feed efficiency, rumen methane emissions and male and female reproduction.
He runs a beef and sheep farm in County Mayo, in the west of Ireland and is integrally involved, and is well known, within the beef cattle sector and wider agricultural industry in Ireland.
Keynote (test) Event
Exploring the mind of farm animals to improve welfare
Are you a glass half full or a glass half empty kind of person? In other words are you an optimist or a pessimist? What you might actually have noticed is that your underlying moods and emotions influence how you interpret the world around you. Having a good day with everything going well and in a positive mood then you might well be viewing the world through a glass half full lens. On the flip side if you’ve had one of those bad days, things might well look more pessimistic overall. This in fact represents an adaptive form of cognitive bias whereby our underlying emotional state influences our interpretation of ambiguous information. Importantly, in recent years we have demonstrated that non-human animals, including a range of farm animal species also demonstrate these cognitive biases. This matters for two important reasons. First it provides evidence that animals experience emotions and second it has implications for animal welfare.
An influential model of animal welfare assessment is the Five Domains Model that considers the domains of nutrition, physical environment, health and behavioural interactions, all of which feed into a fifth domain of mental state. This holistic approach helps emphasise that animal welfare is more than health. An animal can be healthy but have poor welfare. Thus, it highlights the importance of mental wellbeing. However, this presents a major challenge as how do we assess mental wellbeing in farm animals that can’t communicate directly with us? This has led to exciting, pioneering research that aims to better understand the emotional lives of non-human animals. Rather than using the word ‘emotion’, the more technical term used in this area is affective state. So now back to cognitive bias!
This approach has been developed by Professor Mike Mendl, Dr Liz Paul and others from the University of Bristol. Back in 2004, they published an influential Nature paper that has ultimately led to a new area of animal welfare science. In the 2004 study they trained lab rats so that when they heard one sound frequency they could receive a food reward by pressing a lever. Thus that sound frequency predicted a positive reward. They were also trained that when they heard a second different sound frequency they needed to avoid pressing the lever or something negative would happen (e.g. a blast of white noise). Once the rats learnt this so called ‘Go / No-go’ task, half of them were maintained in standard housing conditions. However, the other half were placed under housing conditions known to induce a degree of stress (e.g. damp bedding and unpredictable husbandry regimes). This experimental treatment was the manipulation of emotional state, the prediction being that those housed in unpredictable conditions would be in a more negative affective state than those maintained in the standard housing conditions. Following the housing period, the rats were then re-tested in the previous learning task. However, this included an important clever additional element! In addition to giving the rats trials where they heard the previously learnt sound tones, one frequency predicting the positive reward and the other something negative, in some trials they also played a sound frequency that was intermediate between the two previously learnt cues. That is, they exposed the rats to an ambiguous stimulus, essentially asking does the animal perceive it as predicting a reward or predicting a punishment. The prediction was that if those housed in the predictable housing were in a more positive emotional state than those in the unpredictable housing the former would be more likely to respond to the ambiguous sound tone as if it predicted a food reward. This was indeed what they found. This pioneering study then set the scene for a suite of so called judgement bias tasks than now span from invertebrates to a range of farm animal species, and was the subject of a recent meta-analysis of the topic. This includes some of my own research which has used the approach to demonstrate that giving dairy cows access to pasture had benefits for their affective state. Also, in work as part of a collaboration with Professor Simon Turner at SRUC in Edinburgh, we’re using the approach in pigs to assess if those animals that have lost an aggressive encounter are in a more negative affective state compared to winners. This matters because regrouping aggression is a welfare issue that needs to be managed in pig production.
Using judgement bias to infer animal emotion also has a number of limitations. For example, the approach of first training an animal on an associative learning task means it is only feasible in a research setting and not practical for on farm welfare assessment. This has sparked interesting research in alternative approaches. One such approach is termed attention bias. This is another form of cognitive bias whereby animals (including humans) in a negative affective state will pay more attention to potentially threatening stimuli compared with those in a more positive affective state. For example, this approach has been pharmacologically validated in sheep. In the study, individual sheep were allocated to one of three treatments, receiving either an anxiogenic drug to increase anxiety, an anxiolytic to reduce anxiety or a saline control. They were tested individually in an arena during which they were briefly exposed to a threatening stimulus (a dog seen through a window which was then covered after a short period of time). Subsequently those given the anxiogenic drug spent more time being vigilant and looking towards were the threat had been, while also being less likely to feed. This approach has the advantage of not requiring the animals to have been previously trained on a task. It has been used in a number of practical settings. For example, we’ve recently used it in a study involving dogs from a licenced breeding establishment and demonstrating that those that had been given additional environmental enrichment were less vigilant in an attention bias test, consistent with a more positive affective state. We’ve also recently used it as part of a study comparing the welfare of sheep managed using either virtual fencing or physical fencing and if you’re interested you can hear the results of that study at the upcoming BSAS conference!
While attention bias avoids the need for animals to learn a task, it is still not practical for inclusion in on farm assessments of animal welfare. For that an approach called Qualitative Behaviour Assessment (QBA) is proving very useful. QBA was pioneered and developed by Professor Francoise Wemelsfelder based at SRUC in Edinburgh. The approach involves a holistic assessment of the behavioural expression of an individual animal in relation to a list of descriptive terms, with the animal scored on a scale for each term. The descriptive terms could include words such as ‘relaxed’, ‘alert’, and ‘playful’. This sounds highly subjective and anthropomorphic. However, there is convincing evidence that how animals score using QBA is related to other validated measures of welfare. Indeed, the utility and success of this non-invasive observational approach is also evidenced by the fact it has now been incorporated into a number of UK assurance schemes used by retailers.
Previously research on animal emotion and sentience was deemed somewhat off limits and anthropomorphic. Now, thanks to pioneering researchers and advances in animal welfare science we are beginning to shed light on the mental wellbeing of non-human animals. However, there is still much that remains to be explored. In biology and science in general we talk about the ‘hard problem’ of consciousness. Research into animal mental states is within this challenging area. Rather than shy away from this we should embrace it and use it to attract talented researchers who like a challenge! Animal welfare science brings together a range of disciplines and perspectives with the goal of generating and using fundamental knowledge and understanding to have applied relevance to improve the lives of animals. Animal sentience, the capacity to experience emotions both positive and negative, is now enshrined in UK law with the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act 2022. Importantly this includes all vertebrates, as well as invertebrate decapod crustaceans and cephalopods. This is also raising the question regarding other species not currently included in the Act. For example, in the cognitive bias studies discussed above, honey bees have been found to perform as well as many other vertebrate species! With this in mind I see there is an interesting session on insect welfare at the upcoming conference. The UK also has the recent Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act 2023 with the aim of harnessing advances in animal breeding technology to enhance performance, health and welfare. While technologies in this area can have great potential the legislation also requires approaches to follow up with welfare assessments of the animals involved. It will be important that this includes practical approaches to assess mental state and wellbeing. This is an exciting time to be involved in animal welfare science. For those interested in finding out more about the opportunities for research in this multidisciplinary area then take a look at the Animal Welfare Research Network (https://awrn.co.uk/). This is funded by BBSRC and Defra and is free to join.
Written by Gareth Arnott, Queens University Belfast
Frank Dunshea
The winds of change are blowing at animal – open spac
The winds of change are blowing! When animal – open space was launched in June 2021, one of the aims was to propose an alternative to the standard external peer review of manuscripts. We believe that external peer review contributes to but is not a guarantee of the quality of a scientific paper. We see this nowadays with papers being published by journals after a peer review of doubtful quality. Open Science thus puts a greater responsibility on the shoulders of readers. Up to now, manuscripts in animal – open space were reviewed by scientific editors of the journal who meticulously evaluate the content of the manuscripts, focusing on the reproducibility of the study and the associated data. In accordance with the philosophy of Open Science, the journal set up a postpublication, open-commenting process that allows readers to interact with authors through the PubPeer platform via a link called “Discuss the Article”. The intention was to encourage an open discussion about the published article and replace the “hidden” reviews done by a couple of peers. Unfortunately, this reader-author interaction has not been widely used. Is the scientific community not ready yet to engage in such an open discussion? Are we too early with this approach? This remains unclear. Nevertheless, in addition to the peer-review, the goal remains to foster an open dialogue between readers and authors regarding the published article.
Authors who published their research results and the associated data in animal – open space support the concept of Open Science promoted by the journal. However, other authors have been reluctant because their institutions request them to publish research only in journals with an Impact Factor. We recently learned that animal - open space is not eligible to apply for indexation in the Journal Citation Reports database (WoS) to get an Impact Factor because it does not have implemented an external peer review process. We regret this position, but this is as it stands now. Again, we might have been too early in trying to fully embrace Open Science. Those who rely on metrics probably put too much value on external peer review as a key to scientific quality. Our view is that it is better to have a solid open internal peer review process than to pretend to do this with a non-transparent external peer review process. But we have to face reality. Whether we like it or not, Impact Factor is still perceived as an indicator of the quality of a journal, and having an external peer review is necessary to be eligible for getting one. The journal has therefore decided to add an external peer review process to papers submitted to animal – open space. In line with our philosophy, the reviewers’ comments and authors’ response will be accessible to readers as supplementary material with the manuscript. As the editor-in-chief of the journal, I am excited about this new step in the development of animal - open space. I hope that all those reading these lines will consider this journal for future publications, especially for types of publications such as Data Papers and Method Articles.
animal – open space will continue offering the possibility to publish not only classical Research Articles but also Data Papers and Method Articles that relate to farmed or other managed animals, leisure and companion animals, and the use of insects for animal feed and human food. By the end of 2023, 54 manuscripts have been published, including 5 data papers and 12 method papers. Despite being a new journal in the livestock research field, the articles published in animal – open space are well-perceived by the community.
Especially encouraging is the fact that Data Papers and Method Articles published in 2022 have already been cited in 2023, indicating that these types of articles are highly valued by the research community.
The animal Consortium is seeking an editor-in-chief for animal – science proceedings
animal – science proceedings is one of the three scientific journals jointly owned by a Consortium comprised of the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS), the European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP) and the Institut National de Recherche pour l’agriculture, l’alimentation et l’environnement (INRAE). The journals are currently published by Elsevier.
animal – science proceedings publishes high-quality proceedings from conferences, symposia and workshops on aspects of life sciences with emphasis on farmed and other managed animals, leisure and companion animals, and insects. More information about animal – science proceedings can be found on the websites of the Consortium and the publisher.
The Consortium is seeking candidates for the position of Editor-in-Chief for animal – science proceedings. The Editor-in-Chief ensures the co-ordination, preparation and publication of the journal, in co-ordination with the publisher.
The Editor-in-chief is responsible for the development of the journal within the framework of the budget defined by the Management Board, to:
- propose the scientific guidelines of the journal to the Management Board
- ensure the scientific quality of the journal
- ensure good relations with conference organisers and with the guest editors for the issue
- ensure harmonious relations with the publisher or printer, or the service provider in charge of digital dissemination of the journal
His/her main activities are to:
- organise all aspects of the editorial process
- liaise with the publisher to provide conference organisers with deadlines and costs
- agree guest editors with the conference organisers
- liaise with the conference organisers to ensure deadlines are met and the manuscript provided for publication meet journal guidelines
- liaise regularly with the publisher in relation to the production of the journal and to other matters such as marketing
- liaise with the other editors to identify full (review) articles from conferences that may be published in animal
- meet the scientific and publication targets set by the Management Board
- operate within budget framework defined by the Management Board
- undertake any other activities as determined by the Management Board
There are normally between five and nine issues per year that require a time commitment of three working days an issue on average. In addition, about 10 days are required for attendance animal consortium meetings, most of which are virtual. Candidates are expected to have experience in writing scientific articles, to possess good communication skills, and to take initiative while being a team player. The Editor-in-Chief will receive a fixed honorarium for his/her activities.
For more information about this position, please contact Jaap van Milgen (chair of the animal Consortium; jaap.vanmilgen@inrae.fr) or Cledwyn Thomas (current Editor-in-Chief of animal – science proceedings; cledwyn.thomas@gmail.com).
Candidates are asked to send their CV and a short motivation letter to Jaap van Milgen by May 15th, 2024. The appointment can start in September 2024, and includes a 4-months transition period with the current Editor-in-Chief.
Your Guide to BSAS 2024
Accounts 2023
Northern Ireland Pork & Bacon Forum
BSAS 2024 - Key Sessions
Lance Woods
An interview with animal’s new editor-in-chief, Dr Isabelle Louveau
About Dr Isabelle Louveau, Editor-in-Chief
- 1991 : Doctorate in Biology, Rennes 1 University, France, with an 18-month internship in a research laboratory at Pennsylvania State University, State College, USA
- 1992 : recruitment as a researcher in INRA (French National Institute of Research in Agronomy, now INRAE)
- 2006 : Accreditation to supervise research
- 2005-20007 : Editor, Domestic Animal Endocrinology's editorial board
- 2015–2019 : "Physiology" section editor, Livestock Science's editorial board
- Since 2015 : Editor, Journées de la Recherche Porcine (Swine Days' Research) organisation committee
- 2017–2022 : Vice-president, Commission on Animal Physiology, EAAP (2 terms)
- 2020-2023 : Editor and then Deputy Section Editor, Physiology & Functional Biology Section, animal's editorial board
- From 2024 : Editor-in-chief, animal
Who owns animal?
The animal journal is part of a journal family (animal, animal – science proceedings, and animal – open space) owned by an international consortium comprised of two learned societies and one research institution:
- BSAS : British Society of Animal Science
- EAAP : European Federation of Animal Science
- INRAE : Institut national de recherche pour l'agriculture, l'alimentation et l'environnement (French National Institute for Research in Agriculture, Food and Environment)
All decisions regarding animal are made by the consortium. The journal is completely independent in its editorial policy and strategy. The royalties it receives (45% of income for each published article) are shared between the consortium members. These funds are then allocated to finance conferences, targeted research actions, etc. Read more here.
1. After a transition period at the end of 2019, animal implemented Gold Open Access in 2020. What consequences did you observe after this change of business model, from 2020 up to 2024?
- We first observed a change in submitting authors' geographical profiles. Some countries cannot afford article-publishing charges and no longer submit as a result. The animal journal is a member of Research4Life, a partnership that grants waivers to teams of researchers from low-income countries. We can also offer a limited number of waivers. Despite these two schemes though, we have unfortunately lost submissions from these countries.
- animal's impact factor did not decrease when we transitioned to the Gold Open Access model. On the contrary, it rose above the threshold of three in 2021. This threshold is a minimum requirement to publish for some institutions. As a result, some authors who previously would not submit started to send us articles. More recently, Clarivate has changed its calculation methods for impact factors. This led to a better ranking for animal amongst journals of the same category.
- On the whole though, transitioning to a Gold Open Access model has caused a 30 to 40% decrease in the overall number of submissions. We have only recently (since summer 2023) started to observe a slight pick-up in the number of submissions.
- As for the quality of submissions: it has spread out towards the extremes. We receive a significantly greater number of out-of-scope or sub-standard quality articles. However, we also receive more articles of excellent quality. The overall quality of acceptable and accepted articles has noticeably increased.
2. Could you tell us more about the journal's scope widening to include insects, as of 2024?
- The decision to widen animal's scope to include insects was made by the journal's Management Board. It stems from the Board's will to adapt to the development of new livestock farming sectors, as evidenced by the ever-increasing number of communications concerning or including insect production submitted to EAAP's Annual Meetings.
- The journal's scope has now been adapted to include insects. However, just as for all other animal species within the scope:
- It is the production aspect and rearing factors that are of interest for animal;
- Animal responses must be included, in particular whole-animal outcomes.
- This new section will be cross-disciplinary and theme-based: it will be centred around insects and all aspects of insect production, unlike other sections, which are organised by disciplines.
- The new Section Editor, as well as a Deputy Section Editor and a few editors, have already been recruited.
- Submissions of articles about insect production are already welcome!
3. What is animal's editorial policy regarding the quality assessment of articles?
Articles are assessed through a multi-criterion evaluation. It entails:
- Assessing overall comprehensibility, including
- the quality of scientific content, that is the clarity of the expression of ideas and scientific concepts,
- the quality of the English language used and its legibility;
- Ensuring that principles of responsible publishing and ethics are respected, for instance by
- detecting plagiarism,
- ensuring that international authorship standards are upheld and CRediT author statement is used,
- ensuring that any use of artificial intelligence to assist in writing be duly acknowledged;
- Evaluating the scientific quality and the reproducibility of the research presented.
Recently, we have decided to raise our standards when it comes to statistics in articles, to foster a better understanding of studies and their analysis by readers. We will soon publish a Statistics guidebook for authors, reviewers, and editors, which will formalise our expectations and provide guidance to support authors and help them to produce robust and reproducible statistics.
BSAS hosts Annual Conference in Belfast amid 80th anniversary celebrations
BSAS hosts conference amid 80th anniversary celebrations
The British Society of Animal Science’s (BSAS) Annual Conference, is set to take place in Belfast from April 9th to April 11th, 2024, coinciding with the society's 80th anniversary celebrations. Established in 1944, BSAS has been at the forefront of fostering collaboration and innovation in animal science for eight decades.
The conference, themed on ‘The role of livestock in our ecosystems and economy’ is shaping up to be a dynamic and enriching event, offering unparalleled opportunities for learning, networking, and collaboration as it will convene experts, researchers, and enthusiasts from across the UK and Ireland and beyond to discuss and explore the latest scientific advancements and knowledge.
The opening session of the conference will include Prof Maggie Gill (Aberdeen Uni), Prof Frank O’Mara of Teagasc and the EU Animal Task Force and Dr Katie McDermott (University of Leeds). Frank will be the main speaker opening the debate and outlining the current state of knowledge with regard to the role of livestock in our ecosystems and economy.
A further highlight of this year's conference is the President’s Session (Wednesday 10th April), in which the presidents of the British Ecological Society (Prof Bridget Emmett; UKCEH); British Society of Soil Science (Dr Jack Hannan, Cranfield Uni); President-Elect from the Agricultural Economics Society of Ireland (Dr Erin Sherry, AFBI) and Elizabeth Magowan, President of BSAS, will come together to discuss and find a fact-based position on the role of livestock in our ecosystems and economy. The session will be chaired by a past President of the Ulster Farmers Union – Prof John Gilliland. The presidents session will be followed by the ‘Hammond Lecture’ which will be delivered by Prof Hannah Van Zanten of Wageningen University. Hannah is a world leading scientist, and her presentation will outline novel approaches to driving circularity in farming systems with Livestock a key feature of that circular system.
On Thursday 11th April, sessions on sustainable beef production and reducing the environmental impact of dairy systems will address the potential interventions which will reduce emissions and how we can apply science to best benefit.
The highlights above are just a few examples of the cutting-edge science and its practical application that will be discussed and debated at the conference. Full programme details can be found here.
There are various options for attending e.g. one day ticket, three day ticket, 80th anniversary Gala dinner ticket and a one off special offer of £120 to attend the presidents session noted above, including lunch.
AFBI Quality Assurance Manager (Livestock Science) - Higher Scientific Officer
REF: IRC300577
DEPARTMENT: Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute Northern Ireland (AFBI)
SALARY: £32,880 - £34,011
LOCATION: AFBI Hillsborough, Co. Down BT26 6DR
In order to apply for this position, please click on the “Apply for this job online” link below to register to this vacancy and to submit an online application.