Genetics & genomics
Implementing, analysing, and improving cross-discipline genetic variation studies to benefit local and global food chains and production systems.
Genetics is the study of individual genes in a living organism. Genomics is the study of all genes within an organism and how they interact with the environment around them.
At SRUC, cross-discipline researchers are studying and detailing genetic variations and genomic application in the production efficiency, fertility, health, and welfare of agricultural plants and animals in order to optimise their health, welfare and fitness, and to improve their economic value and quality.
Improvements to the data capture, data mining, phenotyping, computing, statistical and -omnic technologies that global geneticists use to undertake essential genetics and genomics research are also an important part of the genetics and genomics work done at SRUC.
Genetics and genomics work in SRUC news:
Royal honour for SRUC Head of Research
A lifelong devotion to animal genetics, which included meeting the world’s most famous sheep, has led to an honorary OBE for SRUC’s Head of Research.
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SRUC selected for Queen Elizabeth Prizes for Education USA Exchange
SRUC livestock experts have been selected to take part in a prestigious international programme designed to strengthen academic collaboration between the UK and the United States. They will join scientists from seven other UK institutions in the Queen Elizabeth Prizes for Education: USA Exchange 2026.
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Scientists show how climate-smart forage can help farmers cut livestock emissions
The answer to how farmers in Africa and Asia could one day grow crops that are both resistant to a changing climate as well as being able to reduce methane emissions in cattle could be found in a laboratory in Scotland.
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Scientists lead world-first study to track antibiotic resistance in pets
Scientists in Scotland will lead the world’s first study of antibiotic resistance levels in the nation’s pet population to help reduce infection risks for animals and humans.
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Sheep experts team up to reduce emissions
SRUC and the Texel Sheep Society have teamed up with partners from New Zealand, Ireland, and three other key sheep-breeding nations to provide a platform for national and global comparison of methane and carbon dioxide emissions for the purpose of selective breeding for lower-emitting animals.
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‘Cool Calf’ could help accelerate dairy journey to net zero
Hilda, the first Langhill Herd calf to be born through IVF, is part of the Cool Cows project, which aims to establish a nucleus of highly methane-efficient animals.
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Consultancy
SRUC proudly boasts expert knowledge network teams at SAC Consulting, part of SRUC, that bring research to life with technical know-how and collaboration to create tangible value for customers:
SAC Consulting
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