Institute for Global Food Security

The School of Biological Sciences and IGFS is deeply saddened by the news that our colleague, friend and mentor to many, Professor Simon Doherty, passed away yesterday morning. Simon was a highly respected and internationally noted leader in his field and a champion of One Health and the vital role the veterinary profession play in sustainability. His enthusiasm and contribution to the veterinary sciences resulted in him winning many prestigious awards, including being named as World Veterinary Association, Veterinarian of the Year. Simon was a very talented vet, scientist and teacher who inspired everyone he met and worked alongside him, investing much time in supporting the next generation of veterinary practitioners. He adored working with our students and he made extraordinary contributions to our School, Institute and the University. He had a profound impact on the lives and futures of many students. Our deepest condolences go to Simon’s family, friends and colleagues at this sad and difficult time Ilias Kyriazakis Queen's University Belfast Siobhan Fitzsimons MCIPD Nigel Scollan Sharon Huws Ciaren Graham Geoff McMullan British Veterinary Association (BVA) Veterinary Council of Ireland North of Ireland Veterinary Association Veterinary Ireland VetNI

Delighted to welcome MSD Animal Health Ireland to Institute for Global Food Security Food Security at Queen's University Belfast Excellent discussions on food security, sustainable food systems, animal health and greenhouse gas emissions, infection resilience, one health, animal welfare, smart technologies to measure animal well-being, data analytics and AI Lesley Pim Lance Woods BSc(Agr) MBA NSch Fergal Morris @John Graham Sharon Huws Linda Oyama Niamh Elizabeth O'Connell Eric Morgan Ilias Kyriazakis Institute for Global Food Security Ian Bruce Archie Clements Chris Scott Momentum One Zero

The UK Food Security Report (UKFSR) 2024 has been published and sets out an analysis of statistical data relating to food security in the UK. The UKFSR examines past, current, and future trends relevant to food security to present a full and impartial analysis of UK food security. Our colleague Professor Katrina Campbell provided expert contributions and guidance throughout the synthesis of the report. The report can be viewed here - https://lnkd.in/gbb7PsFf Nigel Scollan Sharon Huws Siobhan Fitzsimons MCIPD Queen's University Belfast QUB Research and Innovation

In light of the significant water quality issues affecting Lough Neagh, particularly since the recent algae blooms, the "Lough Neagh Reflections – Restoring Water Quality in Northern Ireland" event will highlight the practical measures farmers are using to reduce nutrient run-off from their farms. Although one part of a wider problem, this event will showcase positive actions taken by the farming community to address the issue. Event highlights: - Film Screening: Navigating the waters, one farm at a time - Panel Discussion: Lough Neagh and practical steps to reduce nutrient run-off This event addresses the urgent need for action, promoting sustainable farming practices and exploring policy changes to tackle the ongoing environmental crisis in the region. NI Science Festival Institute for Global Food Security ##SustainableFarming #TacklingAlgaeBlooms #FarmersForWater #LoughNeaghAction #FarmingForTheFuture

Recent research reveals your dog can detect when your stress levels are heightened, and that they subsequently mirror your emotions during this time. The study, conducted by researchers from the School of Biological Sciences, shows that changes in an owner’s heart rate (HR) can predict changes in their dog’s HR. The team, led by our colleague Dr Gareth Arnott, set out to investigate whether changes in owner stress levels influenced canine stress in a novel environment, for example in a veterinary setting. Read more - https://lnkd.in/eBmUZWgf Nigel Scollan Sharon Huwsv Siobhan Fitzsimons MCIPD Ciaren Graham Animal Welfare Research Network

Researchers at the School of Biological Sciences, IGFS and Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute will participate in the £4.5m LUNZ Grassland (Grassland Resilience for Net Zero) project that aims to optimise grassland use through techniques like upland grazing, low-carbon forages, and agroforestry could help the UK achieve its mitigation goals while saving over £1.6 billion annually. NI lead, our colleague Dr Katerina Theodoridou, commenting on the announcement said; "I’m really excited to be the Northern Ireland lead on the LUNZ Grassland Resilience for Net Zero project and play a role in addressing this vital component of the UK’s journey toward Net Zero by 2050. The livestock industry faces tough challenges in cutting emissions, enhancing biodiversity, and ensuring that rural communities continue to thrive. We aim to collaborate with pioneering farmers to showcase effective approaches and, alongside our project partners, help more farmers adapt their practices and land management methods for a sustainable future". Read more - https://lnkd.in/eqyi-3PX Nigel Scollan Sharon Huws Siobhan Fitzsimons MCIPD Ciaren Graham Omar C.

Our colleague Dr Kerstin Kröger recently represented Queen's University Belfast at the 13th Ocean Dialogue in Can Tho, Vietnam. The Ocean Dialogue Series, initiated by the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV), aims to connect scientists, lawyers, and diplomats to discuss marine science, policies, and legal frameworks toward sustainable ocean governance. Since 2017, it has grown into the leading platform for ocean law and policy in Southeast Asia. The 13th Dialogue, themed "Exploring New Frontiers of the High and Deep Seas," was held on November 14, 2024 More - https://lnkd.in/eCgXMVrZ Siobhan Fitzsimons MCIPD Ciaren Graham Ben Collins Sharon Huws Nigel Scollan Richard Collins Queen's University Belfast - School of Law

Queen's University Belfast and Ulster University have been successful in a major, UK government funding award to train a new generation of PhD students in the joint area of AI and bio-sciences. The project, NILab, will be led by Queen’s and funded with £7M (BBSRC-NERC Doctoral Landscape Awards) as part of the Government’s UK Research and Innovation programme. Commenting on the School of Biological Sciences' involvement, Professor Ilias Kyriazakis said: "We are delighted for our School to have a substantial involvement in this new DTP. Ai is becoming of increasing importance in all aspects of biological science research and applications. NILab complements very well our current Centre for Doctoral Training SUSTAIN which aims transform Agri-food systems by AI" Read more - https://lnkd.in/eJDxXEfJ Siobhan Fitzsimons MCIPD Ciaren Graham Nigel Scollan Sharon Huws

FlockFocus isn’t just another project; it’s a flagship initiative highlighting the cutting-edge work Momentum One Zero brings to the agri-food sector. 🌱🐔 Designed to revolutionise poultry welfare and enhance sustainability, FlockFocus is powered by AI and advanced monitoring technology. Here’s what makes it truly groundbreaking: 🔹 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Supported by $1 million in funding from FFAR (Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research) and McDonald's’s Smart Broiler programme, this project exemplifies high-impact partnerships focused on real-world solutions. 🔹 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐈 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: Utilising state-of-the-art AI, FlockFocus continuously monitors poultry welfare by capturing and analysing essential data, providing invaluable insights for optimising animal care and farm operations. 🔹 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 & 𝐀𝐧𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐟𝐚𝐫𝐞: FlockFocus sets new standards for sustainable, humane practices in the food production industry by improving living conditions for poultry. 🔹 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡: Currently in trials with leading industry players like Moy Park, this project demonstrates how secure connected intelligence can be applied on a large scale, transforming animal welfare standards worldwide. Hear Prof. Niamh Elizabeth O'Connell explain how FlockFocus is shaping the future of agri-food and driving meaningful change in global food systems! Watch the full video here: https://lnkd.in/eicDDjX8

Congratulations to our colleague Professor Rudolf Krska who has been honoured with this year’s Nils Foss Excellence Prize. Prof. Krska has received the globally recognised €100,000 award in celebration of his groundbreaking research in developing analytical methods that enhance the sustainability and safety of the food production chain. Ranked among the top three researchers in food safety worldwide and the most cited author in the field of mycotoxins, Prof. Krska is admired for his innovative solutions including the development of integrated methods to prevent and reduce natural toxins in food and feed chains. Read more - https://lnkd.in/eFZUfX-e Chris Elliott Nigel Scollan Geoff McMullan Ciaren Graham Sharon Huws Siobhan Fitzsimons MCIPD QUB Research and Innovation Nicholas Birse