The Engineering Biology Hub for Future Farmed Animals The Engineering Biology Hub integrates decades of world-leading research with cutting-edge technology to advance genome engineering in farmed animals. Built on a foundation of high-quality reference genomes for key terrestrial and aquatic species, the hub brings together a unique combination of expertise, datasets, infrastructure, and innovation.Our VisionWe aim to provide scientists with the tools and knowledge to precisely and ethically engineer animal genomes, thereby enhancing animal health, welfare, and productivity in sustainable farming systems.Our GoalsAdvancing capability: Developing and sharing next-generation engineering biology tools for farmed animals.Nurturing talent: Training opportunities to develop a pipeline of skilled scientists and future research leaders.Driving innovation: Converting cutting-edge research into commercial opportunities with real-world benefits.Building connections: Leveraging the Hub to attract collaboration and foster innovative research.Informing policy and engaging openly: Sharing evidence to guide policy decisions and build meaningful dialogue.Meet our Hub MembersExplore our Research Network Building the Foundations for Engineering Biology at Roslin The Roslin Institute has established itself as a world leader in animal genetics and genomics, with foundational work that directly supports the ambitions of the Engineering Biology Hub. From early genome mapping efforts such as PiGMaP to landmark achievements like the creation of Dolly the sheep, the first mammal cloned from an adult cell, Roslin has pushed the boundaries of genetic science. Longstanding investment from the BBSRC has supported critical infrastructure, including Edinburgh Genomics, and placed Roslin at the heart of global initiatives such as the Functional Annotation of Animal Genomes (FAANG) consortium. These platforms provide the tools and data to unlock gene function, understand complex traits, and build the genomic reference resources essential for engineering biology. Roslin’s expertise has translated directly into agricultural innovation with significant economic impact. This research in genomic selection and disease resistance has delivered benefits across agricultural species, such as gene-edited pigs resistant to PRRS virus, salmon resistant to infectious pancreatic necrosis, and cattle bred for feed efficiency and fertility. These outcomes highlight Roslin’s effectiveness in translating advanced genomics from the lab to the field.Now, as the UK expands its focus on engineering biology, Roslin’s capabilities in genome editing, quantitative genetics, and translational research provide a strong foundation. The institute’s work aligns with national ambitions for more sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and bio-based innovation. The Engineering Biology Hub at Roslin is uniquely positioned to help lead the next phase of biological engineering, where genome-scale knowledge and precision tools are applied to real-world challenges in food security, animal health, and environmental sustainability. Our funders The Engineering Biology Hub is funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the University of Edinburgh and the Data-Driven Innovation initiative, the Roslin Foundation and the Gates Foundation. This article was published on 2025-10-21
