Moredun aims to find global solutions
Moredun Research Institute has recently reworded its mission as a reflection of its research focus and reach, commented chief executive Julie Fitzpatrick. The mission now reads: "To lead in livestock health solutions for global food security".
Professor Fitzpatrick added that Moredun aims to "contribute significantly to finding global solutions to food security". She spoke of the institute's new mission during its an annual press day, in which recent major projects are highlighted.
One of the projects it described, was the evaluation of a new diagnostic test for liver fluke in cattle and sheep, in collaboration with Quality Meat Scotland. Project Leader Philip Skuce said they were able to detect liver fluke one month ahead of the traditional egg count and that the team were working to transfer this to natural outbreaks of the disease.
Another project mentioned at the event was the ongoing research to contribute to better diagnostics and vaccination of sheep scab. Project Leader Stewart Burgess said that current controls are becoming unsustainable, however, the team are woking on a vaccine that shows promising levels of protection.
Beth Wells, a member of the institute's communications team, spoke of their recent return from Moredun's annual series of UK-wide roadshows. She said that the team had been encouraged by the good turnout and the range of interests from the attendees.
Beth added that Moredun has also been organising interactive scientific activities for schoolchildren, which have been well-received by teachers, she reported.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
