TEAGASC PHD WALSH FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITY
“Multi-breed genomic evaluation of longitudinal data”
Ref Walsh Fellowship Number: 2012037
Background
Random regression models have been proposed as an alternative to multi-trait models for the genetic
evaluation of longitudinal data such as growth data across varying ages. Genomic selection increases
yearly genetic response in cattle breeding as young animals can be selected based on their own DNA
with the same accuracy than based on 50 offspring records. To date the size of the reference
population used to estimate genomic effects has remained small especially in beef breeds. The
objectives of this project are two-fold: 1) to develop models that allow for better utilisation of animal
live-weigh data and 2) to develop multi-breed genomic evaluations for longitudinal data. Results from
this project are expected to increase the rates of genetic gain, create more reliable breeding values and
increase the accuracy of an animal’s proof.
Requirements
Applicants should have a relevant MSC in quantitative genetics or related discipline and Level 8
(Honours degree) in animal science or related discipline. The applicant should fulfil the requirements for
postgraduate studies at the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry in University of Helsinki
http://www.helsinki.fi/af-faculty/studies/postgraduate/guidelines.html. The successful candidate should
be highly motivated, and knowledge of statistical methodology used in modern animal breeding.
Award
The PhD Fellowship is a joint research project between Teagasc, Moorepark, the Biotechnology and
Food Research Unit in MTT, Finland and the University Of Helsinki. The student will be based primarily
in Teagasc Moorepark under the supervision of Drs Nóirín McHugh and Donagh Berry but will spend
approximately half the duration of the PhD in Finland based at MTT under the supervision of Dr. Pekka
Uimari and Prof. Esa Mäntysaari and the University of Helsinki working under the supervision of Dr.
Jarmo Juga. The Fellowship will start on 1st of October 2012. The fellowship provides a stipend of
€21,000. University fees are paid by the student from the stipend which is tenable for 4 years.
Further Information/Applications
Dr Nóirín McHugh, Animal & Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and
Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
Phone +353 (0)25 42676 email: noirin.mchugh@teagasc.ie
Dr Jarmo Juga, Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Helsinki, Finland
email: jarmo.juga@helsinki.fi
Application Procedure
Submit an electronic copy of Curriculum Vitae and a letter of interest simultaneously to:
Dr Nóirín McHugh (noirin.mchugh@teagacsc.ie) and
Dr Jarmo Juga (jarmo.juga@helsinki.fi).
Closing date
22nd June 2010.