ANIMAL scientists from across the world will gather in Edinburgh from April 9-11 to discuss the latest advancements in animal science.

The British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) his holding its 75th anniversary conference in the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) and the three-day event, entitled ‘Fit for the future’, will focus on the opportunities of animal science and the challenges surrounding feeding a growing world population with fewer resources.

Maggie Mitchell, chief executive of the British Society of Animal Science, said it would be 'a truly global celebration of the innovation and progress that has been made in animal science over the last 75 years.'

As well as some home-grown talent – including Professor Eileen Wall, Dr Emma Baxter and Professor Cathy Dwyer, all from SRUC – experts from as far afield as Australia have been invited to discuss the pioneering technologies shaping the future of animal production. Professor David Raubenheimer, a renowned nutritional ecologist from Sydney University, with 25 years of experience in the sector, will present a headline lecture on the critical roles of specific appetites in animal and human nutrition.

Another keynote speaker will be Dr Hannah van Zanten, from the Netherland’s Wageningen University’s animal production systems group, who will share her topical insight into the role of farm animals in the circular food system and the pathways available for sustainable production and consumption of animal-sourced food.

Speakers from the industry will also discuss subjects ranging from animal behaviour, the economics of animal welfare and the adoption of new technology in livestock production.