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University announces £10m investment in animal science
The deal will bring to market new veterinary vaccines and tools for diagnosing diseases that affect farmed animals.

Deal will bring new veterinary vaccines to market

The University of Edinburgh has secured an investment of £10 million to bring animal science innovations to market.

The investment in a new company, Roslin Technologies, will develop business opportunities arising from research from the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.

The deal will enable researchers to explore the commercial potential of technologies that enable low-cost manufacturing of new medicines using chicken eggs.

It will also bring to market new veterinary vaccines and tools for diagnosing diseases that affect farmed animals.

“This investment recognises the strength of the University’s innovation capacity and cements our position as one of the world’s leading research-intensive universities,” said Sir Timothy O’Shea, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Edinburgh.

Professor Bruce Whitelaw, interim director of The Roslin Institute, added: “The Roslin Institute is internationally recognised for providing a strategic research base for large animal genetics and health science within the UK.

“Having pioneered the commercialisation of animal biotechnology for three decades, the establishment of Roslin Technologies now provides an exciting platform to accelerate the translation of Roslin’s data-driven innovations into the commercial sector.”

Roslin Technologies Ltd is thought to be the largest agriculture biotechnology start-up in UK history to focus on research projects aimed at improving animal health and raising agricultural productivity.

The company is a collaboration between the University, private equity advisors JB Equity and the British Innovation Fund, a newly-formed fund that invests in leading innovation venture funds and companies from British universities.

Image (C) University of Edinburgh

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.