212-408 Advanced Topics in Farm Animal Science

The course may involve the use of animals in experiments. Students should be aware that these experiments are an essential part of the course and that exemption from this component is not possible.

212-358 Animal Physiology

The aim of this subject is to present to students a range of topics covering new and innovative research related to the improvement in or modification of animal performance and product yield, composition and quality.

On completion of this subject, students should be aware of the motivation for, and implications of, current animal research areas and the use of new technologies to improve or modify animal performance; have an advanced understanding of the molecular, physiological, metabolic and endocrine factors involved; and be aware of any social, economic or ethical considerations associated with the application of new technologies to improving or modifying animal performance.

Subject content will include topics drawn from current research areas in growth and development, meat production, lactation, and reproduction. Emphasis will be placed on factors controlling growth and differentiation, growth promoting agents, hormones involved in the repartitioning of nutrients towards meat, milk and fibre production, transgenesis and reproduction.

A 3-hour end-of-semester written examination (50%), two assignments of up to 3500 words each, (40%) and a seminar (10%).