Will Shaffer: Genetic Selection in Cattle | Ep. 83
Jun 26, 2024
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Researcher Will Shaffer discusses optimizing genetic selection for stable cattle performance across different environments. Topics include genotype-environment interactions, environmental sensitivity in traits, enhancing genetic progress, and future career goals. Will shares insights on respiration rate, temperature impact, and practical research outcomes in cattle breeding. The podcast explores the importance of understanding environmental features and the challenges of genetic selection in cattle.
Genotype-environment interactions impact genetic evaluations in cattle breeding.
Will Shaffer focuses on enhancing genetic progress through understanding complex traits.
Integration of kindness and collaboration fosters productivity and progress in scientific endeavors.
Deep dives
Genetic Evaluation Assumptions and Potential
Genetic evaluations and EPDs are commonly assumed to remain consistent regardless of location; however, environmental factors play a crucial role in determining breeding values. A shift towards a new era of communication in the beef industry is emphasized, promoting accessibility to innovative insights and expertise.
Career Path and Research Focus
Will Shafer's journey from the family farm to genetics research highlights his deep-rooted interest in breeding values and genetic progress. His current focus on genotype-environment interactions aims to enhance understanding of complex traits like sire conception rate and identify underlying biological factors impacting fertility.
Improving Genetic Selection
Will Shafer discusses the importance of kindness and collaboration in scientific endeavors. Being kind fosters a positive work environment and encourages productivity and progress. By integrating kindness, helpfulness, and a genuine interest in collaboration, individuals can work together effectively to achieve common goals.
Personal Reading and Favorite Book Series
In his leisure time, Will enjoys revisiting his favorite childhood book series, "The Inheritance Cycle," for relaxation and escapism. Engaging with fantasy novels like these allows for a break from the rigors of academia and offers a mental retreat.
Traits for Success
Kindness and patience are identified as essential traits enabling successful individuals in various fields. The ability to be compassionate, helpful, and understanding, both towards others and oneself, contributes significantly to personal and professional development.
In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Will Shaffer discusses his research on genetics and environmental interactions in beef cattle. Will share insights into optimizing genetic selection for achieving stable cattle performance across diverse environmental conditions. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain expert insights and elevate your beef production knowledge. Tune in to The Beef Podcast Show on your favorite platform!
"Genotype and environment interactions are essential for accurate genetic evaluations and improving cattle performance."
Meet the guest:Will Shaffer is a Genetics PhD candidate at Kansas State University, where he also earned his Master’s in Genetics and a Master’s certificate in Statistics. His extensive research includes modeling genotype-environment interactions, differential miRNA expression, and sire conception rates. Will has practical experience as a ranch assistant at Shaffer Cattle Co. and a research assistant at Oklahoma State University. He excels in data analytics and experimental design and has made significant contributions to the beef industry.
What you will learn:
(00:00) Highlight
(01:40) Introduction
(10:37) Importance of genotype-environment interactions
(18:43) Environmental sensitivity in traits
(22:16) Respiration rate and temperature
(25:40) Enhancing genetic progress in herds
(32:38) Will's career goals and future research
(44:23) Final three questions
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