Strong contributions of the Roslin Institute to the rural economy and gender balance were praised during a debate. The Institute's impact is felt on a local, national and international level through its work in advancing knowledge to prevent and treat important veterinary diseases and develop sustainable farm animal production systems, and in advancing the careers of women in science. Read more

Infertile hens have been used to carry eggs containing other breeds. Scientists used gene-editing techniques to inject specialised stem cells – called primordial germ cells – from another chicken breed into the eggs from the surrogate chickens. The advance could help to boost breeding of endangered birds and improve production of commercial hens. Read more

In the news: STV, The World News & others

Bacteria can overcome significant challenges to transfer from one species and flourish in another, research has shown. Studies of the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infections in people and animals, have shown for the first time how it can rapidly adapt to new species. Scientists used a newly developed model to study how pathogens can transfer from humans to sheep. Read more

In the news: Market Research Feed, Chochilino & others

The Roslin Institute has signed an agreement with Roslin Technologies, Scotland’s Rural College and Moredun Research Institute, to fund the commercial development of an E. coli O157:H7 vaccine for cattle to prevent life-threatening illnesses in people. Scientists at Roslin and Moredun have provided the fundamental research behind the feasibility of a vaccination approach and are now working closely with Roslin Technologies on the next steps. Read more

In the news: The Scottish Farmer & others

A large-scale study of German shepherds has given valuable insight on genes linked to common characteristics. Some of the dogs’ behaviours, such as chasing, playing with humans, and fear of loud noises – were influenced by genetics. The results could inform breeding for desirable traits or management approaches to minimise problem behaviours. Read more

Also on this study: Heredity podcast & Behind the paper – a Nature Ecology and Evolution blog