Researchers have been invited to submit pre-proposals for the 2024 funding round of the Cobb Research Initiative (CRI).
The CRI was developed to help improve poultry genetics further.
“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 liveability
Broiler liveability
Meat quality
Hatchability and chick quality
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 encouraged.
In 2023, Cobb awarded nine grants in its first round of funding, creating partnerships with eight research programmes in several countries.
“These research projects really are a partnership between Cobb and the grant recipients. Our approach to working with the research programs is unique and it has resulted in tremendously positive feedback,” Herring said.
Dr Yang Zhao from the University of Tennessee was a 2023 grant recipient. “The Cobb Research Initiative has been instrumental in enhancing my research programme. 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, applicants can submit pre-proposals electronically from 30 January to 4 March. More information, including submission instructions and previously funded research can be found at www.CobbResearchInitiative.com.