Iowa State University to Offer Short Course on Designing Breeding Programs for Minor Livestock Species

Iowa State University is offering a short course January 25-29, 2027, in Ames, Iowa, titled “Designing Breeding Programs for Minor Livestock Species – From Theory to Practice”. This workshop aims to share recent scientific advancements and identify opportunities to address major challenges in genetic improvement in minor livestock species; determine future areas of research, extension, and teaching related to this topic; and foster collaborations among early-career and established researchers and stakeholders in the animal breeding community across the U.S. The workshop is intended for graduate students, early-career researchers, and professionals interested in the design and optimization of livestock breeding programs. The no-course course will accept up to 40 participants and travel and lodging scholarships are available for a maximum of 25 participants. Iowa State University notes that although minor livestock species, including sheep, goats, South American camelids, and bison, play an important role in diversifying and strengthening the resilience of U.S. agricultural systems, farmers of these species are not fully taking advantage of available new technologies in animal breeding. The application deadline to participate is November 20, 2026.