February 5, 2024

 

Cobb opens up for research proposal submissions to advance poultry genetics

 

Researchers can submit pre-proposals for the 2024 funding round of the Cobb Research Initiative (CRI) beginning January 30, Cobb announced.

 

The CRI was developed to help propel poultry genetics further by creating opportunities that bring together diverse scientific research disciplines to create advancements in global protein production.

 

"At Cobb, we are committed to advancing food security, safety, sustainability and efficiency to ensure the continued accessibility and affordability of protein," said Dr. William Herring, vice president of research and development at Cobb. "To achieve these objectives, we collaborate with experts across diverse fields, extending beyond poultry experts, to glean novel insights and develop cutting-edge tools to advance poultry genetics."

 

The CRI priorities include broiler breeder livability, broiler livability, meat quality, hatchability and chick quality, and egg fertility and production.

 

Proposals that promote the convergence of science, automation, data and technology to advance poultry genetics, health, welfare and production efficiency are highly encouraged.

 

In 2023, Cobb awarded nine grants in its first round of funding, creating partnerships with eight research programmes across multiple countries.

 

"These research projects really are a partnership between Cobb and the grant recipients. Our approach to working with the research programmes is unique and it has resulted in tremendously positive feedback," Dr. Herring added.

 

"The Cobb Research Initiative has been instrumental in enhancing my research programme," said Dr. Yang Zhao, a 2023 grant recipient from University of Tennessee. "It has provided a platform for expanding my knowledge in the [poultry] breeding industry while also facilitating the development and implementation of cutting-edge technologies that would otherwise be difficult to achieve."

 

For the 2024 application period, pre-proposals have to be submitted by March 4.

 

- Cobb