BioBusiness research project : Training and development of innovative solutions for animal health and welfare problems by means of precision livestock farming (PLF)

In order to satisfy an increasing global hunger for meat, dairy, and eggs, livestock production is increasingly becoming industrialized worldwide. This agricultural transformation, however, is revealing animal health and welfare problems. A solution to this dilemma may lie in implementing new technology complimentary to industrial production that is founded in animal biology and capable of identifying and correcting health and welfare problems. However people educated in biology are not aware of the possibilities of modern technology and people developing new technology are not familiar with the world of biology. The main objective of the 4 year BioBusiness project is to train biologically educated people (veterinarians and biologists) to collaborate with technology driven people (bio-engineers and computer engineers). The project is being conducted by a strong Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) related consortium formed by 10 partners of research institutions, universities, and companies. A total of 11 early stage researchers were recruited as Marie-Curie Fellows to work as a team for the development of high-tech products in the following areas: 1) optimal embryonic development in chickens; 2) lameness in dairy cows; 3) aggressive behaviour in pigs. Each fellow has a supervisor responsible for scientific and research education. The fellows affiliated with academic partners are seeking a PhD degree in this project. All fellows are trained in animal applied research, technology, product development, and marketing. The progress of the fellows is monitored by a group of expert researchers under 3 specific conditions: a) individual academic/scientific progress; b) industrial progress in product development activities and; c) individual development by the network and synergy on group activities. The research outcome of the project will be 11 well-trained people who understand the innovative potential of PLF from an animal health and welfare position. Moreover they will develop innovative product concepts and the corresponding business models. Together, farmers will have a tool to improve their business and animal health and welfare through PLF technology