(L-R): Dr. Karl Walsh (Head of the Research Division of DAFM), Prof. David Kenny, Teagasc and President of BSAS, Dr. Sinéad Waters (University of Galway and co-chair of the BSAS 2025 local organising committee), Minister Noel Grealish ( Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with responsibility for Food Promotion, New Markets, Research and Development) and Dr. Paul Smith (Teagasc and BSAS Trustee)

The British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) 2025 Annual Conference has been officially launched by Noel Grealish, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, with responsibility for Food Promotion, New Markets, Research and Development.

For only the second time in its 80-year history, BSAS will host its flagship scientific conference in the Republic of Ireland, following its last visit to Croke Park in 2018. The event will take place from 8th to 10th April 2025 at the Galway Bay Hotel, Salthill, Galway, and will bring together scientists, industry leaders, policymakers, and students to discuss the future of livestock science.

With the theme "Animal Science: Supporting Livestock's Role in a Global Society," BSAS 2025 will explore the role of scientific advancements in ensuring sustainable, efficient, and welfare-conscious livestock systems.
Speaking at the official launch, Minister Noel Grealish said:

“I am delighted to welcome the annual conference of the British Society of Animal Science to Galway, only the second time that the conference has been held in Ireland. The BSAS plays a pivotal role in advancing animal science in Ireland and the UK. Given the importance of livestock to our agricultural sector, this is a significant area of research and one that my Department supports extensively through competitive, public-good research funding. I commend the organisers for the theme they have chosen for the conference – ‘Supporting Livestock’s Role in a Global Society’ – this rightly puts a focus on the many positive benefits that livestock farming can contribute to our economy, society, rural areas and our food system. I look forward to opening the conference in April and welcoming the national and international delegates to Galway”.

The largest scientific society in the UK and Ireland representing livestock-based research, BSAS plays a key role in supporting innovation in animal production and sustainable agriculture. This year’s conference will feature leading researchers and industry experts, including:

• Prof. Michael Lee, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Harper Adams University 
• Dr. Sarah Klopatek, Chief Livestock Scientist, JBS USA 
• Prof. Eileen Wall, Head of Research, SRUC 
• Asst Prof. Hilario Mantovani, Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison 
• Dr. Craig Lewis, Genetic Service Manager, Genus PIC 

BSAS President, David Kenny explains the importance of attending BSAS 2025:

"The level of enthusiasm for BSAS 2025 is remarkable, and it’s a testament to the importance of this event for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers alike. Whether you are an established scientist, a practitioner in the livestock sector, or an early-career researcher, this conference is not to be missed. We warmly invite everyone passionate about animal science to join us in Galway this April—this is your chance to be part of the discussions shaping the future of sustainable livestock production."

 Dr. Sinéad Waters, from the University of Galway and co-chair of the BSAS 2025 local organising committee, highlighted the significance of the conference returning to Ireland, stating:

"BSAS 2025 will be an opportunity for leading scientists and industry experts to come together and shape the future of livestock research. Galway, as a centre for innovation and excellence in agriculture, is the perfect location to host these discussions."

The three-day event will feature groundbreaking research presentations, expert panel discussions, and networking opportunities, with an Early Career Day on 7th April dedicated to supporting students and early-career researchers in animal science.