Alliance-funded symposium connects students with industry, trains next generation of ag leaders

University of Guelph graduate students heard first-hand what it takes to be successful in livestock careers during the University of Guelph Animal Biosciences Symposium, supported by the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance, a collaboration between the Government of Ontario, Agricultural Research and Innovation Ontario, and the University of Guelph.

The December event celebrated outstanding student science from the Ontario Agricultural College’s Department of Animal Biosciences. It also connected students with representatives from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA) and the agri-food industry, while giving students an opportunity to hone their research communication and networking skills – key abilities for future agri-food leaders.

Nearly 200 in-person and virtual attendees from agri-food businesses, government and academia learned about innovative U of G research, career opportunities and tips for navigating the industry after graduation. 

Rob Flack, Ontario’s Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, sent a greeting to attendees, which was followed by an introduction from Deputy Minister Dr. John Kelly.

“It was inspiring to see the innovative research being conducted by University of Guelph students and their enthusiasm for agriculture, said Dr. Youngji Rho, Feed Ingredient and By-Products Specialist in the Agriculture Development Branch at OMAFA. “This event not only helped me stay up to date on current research and trends, which is crucial for my role, but also allowed me to connect with potential future colleagues and the next generation of agricultural leaders.”

“The symposium truly showcased the tangible benefits of the Alliance's investment in fostering collaboration and mentorship within the agricultural community.”

Dr. Dan Ganesh, director of Bos Nutrition Services Inc., took the stage to talk about the diversity of agriculture, adaptability and trends in animal production, and offered advice on leveraging research and work to secure future opportunities. Dr. Tina Widowski, a University of Guelph professor of applied animal behaviour and welfare and recent inductee to the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame spoke about her career and life trajectory working in swine and poultry science.

Attendees also heard from 28 graduate students who presented research results on diverse, industry-focused topics like the health and welfare of layer chickens, preventing boar taint, dairy cow feed efficiency and emissions, and lamb immune development. Most projects received funding through the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance.

By the numbers

• 130 students, faculty members, government representatives and members of the agri-food industry attended in person.
• 70 attendees signed on virtually.
• 29 U of G graduate students shared research posters
• 28 U of G graduate students shared preliminary or final research results via poster presentations.
• At least 3 industries were represented by partners offering career insights (feed industry, animal sciences industry, and government).