Leading pig geneticist Dr Rex Walters is giving a talk at Derby University’s Enterprise Centre on September 5 at 10:30.
The meeting will provide an opportunity for pig producers, breed clubs, associations and societies to improve their knowledge and gain further insight into what makes the perfect pig.
The event is not only for people who are new to pig keeping and breeding, but also for experienced breeders and those that run pig courses to be able to learn and pass on the knowledge to new and up and coming pig keepers, and for those that have an overall interest in the domesticated pig.
The talk will discuss the building blocks of the pigs’ thought process; the genetic make up that effects their behaviour, colouration and build; how much is nature and how much is nurture; why they do what they do and what does it all means.
Dr Walters studied Animal Science at Wye College, before gaining a Master of Philosophy by researching pig genetics. He then went on to achieve a doctorate. He is now an adviser to several national and international organisations (including the British Pig Association) and is an appointed expert and observer in livestock breeding and biotechnology to the European Commission in Brussels.
He has published, and presented, more than 150 papers on pig breeding and genetics, and is regularly invited to contribute in international seminars and conferences. He is particularly interested in the practical exploitation of genetics and genetic conservation.
The meeting takes place at Derby University Enterprise Centre, Bridge Street, Derby DE1 3LD. Arrival is 10:00 for a 10:30 start, and there’s a small charge of £5.00 per person – although the meeting is free for members of the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Society. Lunch is included.
To register, email: kim@kbrook.co.uk
