Themed talks, discussion and guest lecture launch next phase of collaboration between neighbouring organisations.
A programme of research-themed events has marked a new phase in a strategic collaboration between the University of Edinburgh and Moredun Research Institute.
A series of research presentations, which highlighted collaborative projects between the organisations, set the tone for an open forum on the future of the partnership.
Afterwards, a guest lecture from Professor Tom McNeilly, Director of the Moredun Research Institute, marked his appointment as an Honorary Professor of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.
Research potential
An audience of researchers heard talks on projects that had been supported by pump-priming funding – awards that support studies in their early development.
Subjects covered included immunity in lowland lamb production, parasites of economic importance, the One Health risks and benefits of wild swimming, and mite control in laying hens.
These presentations were followed by an open discussion on opportunities for further development between the two organisations, aimed to develop a centre of research excellence, attract investment, and strengthen industry partnerships.
Honorary position
In the guest lecture that followed, Professor McNeilly described his career from its beginnings in mixed veterinary practice, to embracing research as a specialism, undertaking a PhD, and his 20-year career with Moredun.
He recounted working in livestock diseases and population biology, before assuming his current position in 2023.
Professor McNeilly paid tribute to a series of mentors including Professor David Gally of the Roslin Institute, Professor Julie Fitzpatrick, CEO of Moredun Research Institute and Scotland’s part-time Chief Scientific Advisor, and Lord Trees, Chairman of the Moredun Research Institute.
In concluding his talk, he shared the advice to “Be positive, be kind, embrace the opportunity to learn from others, and don’t be afraid to ask silly questions”.
Professor Lisa Boden, Head of School: “Our collaboration with Moredun is of strategic significance, underscoring our unique positioning and common research and innovation strengths within this relatively compact geographic region.”
Professor Bruce Whitelaw, Director, Roslin Institute: “These activities represent a collaboration that aims to promote Easter Bush as a global centre of excellence in One Health research, tasked to generate tipping points for innovation.”