World-leading livestock scientists will next month deliver a ‘crash course’ in the latest animal breeding technologies at SRUC.
Delivered by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) in collaboration with Agrimetrics, the course, which has been dubbed ‘Vetnomics’, is designed for practising vets, their clients, interested farmers, retailers, genomic services providers and breeding companies.
Dr. Steph Smith, the course organiser, explained that Vetnomics is designed to bring attendees up to speed on the application of genomics by taking them away from their day jobs for as short a time as possible.
The two-day course aims to include:
- A refresher in basic genetics;
- The latest developments in genotyping and sequencing;
- The importance of phenotyping; and
- The best assessment and management of animals based on their genetic merit.
She added: “Vetnomics provides a comprehensive but condensed introduction to genetics and genomics in animal breeding and their use in practice in just two days.”
The course will also feature a practical demonstration by Neogen, a company which offers genomics services worldwide.
Professor Mike Coffey, one of the SRUC livestock experts delivering Vetnomics, said: “The practical application of science is playing an increasingly important role in modern farming.
Genomic technologies can help improve and safeguard animal health and welfare through better breeding and management. Vets are the most trusted farm advisers so need to know what to advise on genomics.
“Through the interdisciplinary approach of Vetnomics, we hope to share important messages from animal genetics research, give confidence in emerging technologies and refresh and inform vets as to the underlying mechanisms of genetic progress for data interpretation and discussion with farmers.”
Available online or through a two-day residential, Vetnomics will be held at the Norton House Hotel, Ingliston, on November 22 and 23.
