REPRODUCTIVE BIOTECHNOLOGY CONCENTRATION AT UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

Funds are available for six Fellowships and three IRTA toestablish a graduate program in reproductive biotechnology that educates a diverse group of MS students with the principles of animal reproduction and the technical competency required to excel in careers in animal production. Measurable objectives include a new concentration in reproductive biotechnology within existing graduate programs in Animal Sciences and Animal Molecular and Cell Biology, graduation of six MS Fellows, two from groups traditionally under-represented in agriculture, and an internship program. Features include the participation of 10 faculty, new courses providing experiential learning in reproductive biotechnology and a focus on interdisciplinary education involving reproduction, animal science, cell biology, genetics and biotechnology. Fellows will learn the experimental method through the development of a research program on a topic relevant to contemporary issues in reproductive biotechnology and applied reproduction. Fellows will gain experience of the practical application of reproductive biology by participation in an internship with a leading company involved in reproductive biotechnology or with a research team at Universidade de São Paulo that implements reproductive technology research programs on commercial farms. The measurable target, directly relevant to NNF program goals and USDA strategic goals, is the education of 6 MS-level scientists with the broad understanding, experience and enthusiasm needed to provide human capital for the continued prosperity of American agriculture. The development of a formal program in reproductive biotechnology will ensure that there will be a sustained pipeline for development of graduates in an important agricultural TESA.