Latest news from the Roslin Institute. To view older news stories, see our news archive. You can also read longform articles on our research in our blog. To learn more about the work and life of our scientists, please see Meet Our Scientists . We also post our news on Facebook and Twitter and you can subscribe to our newsletter. For press enquiries please contact the Press Office via email or +44 (0)131 650 9547. Insights into bone health to aid poultry welfare Scientists determine useful approach to assess bone strength, supporting breeding management decisions for laying hens. DNA encoding method aids data-driven genetics research New approach to representing genetic inheritance could support studies involving large datasets. Indigenous chickens reveal environment-driven microbiome diversity Study reveals Ethiopia’s unique ecological impact on indigenous chicken gut microbiomes, highlighting key insights for global poultry farming. Science Insights 2024: Inspiring future scientists A week of immersive research and hands-on learning inspires future scientists. Mussel genome map enhances production and resistance Complete genetic blueprint supports blue mussel breeding programmes, disease resistance and marine ecosystem conservation. Clearance of deer cull carcasses is loss to ecosystem The removal of deer bodies following annual culls in Scotland may be depriving the environment of essential nutrients, according to a new study. Data insights aid in managing livestock disease spread A new analysis offers a comprehensive view of cattle movements, providing valuable insights for veterinary decision-making. £1.1m award studies zinc oxide ban in pig diet The next stage of a UK collaboration aims to understand the impacts of the dietary supplement ban set to take place later this year. Mutation drives bacterial adaptation to immune response Researchers have uncovered a genetic mutation that helps common bacteria affecting humans and animals to survive against immune defences and antibiotics. Analysis reveals new resistance gene variation in pet pathogen Insight into the diversity of antibiotic resistance genes could aid in developing effective surveillance and interventions. Squirrelpox virus spreads north of central Scotland Scientists from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies have confirmed the death of a red squirrel from squirrelpox virus in an area previously unaffected by the disease. Songbird reference genome aids avian research Researchers have developed a standard DNA code for a species of wild bird, to support studies in avian biology. Cost-effective DNA analysis could support dog research Lower-cost genomic analysis could enable affordable screening of individual dogs for genetic health conditions, and support breeding programmes. Virus ancestry could help predict next pandemic Insight into virus evolution helps narrow the range of pathogens that could cause future epidemics. West Nile virus study sheds light on mitigating outbreaks Mapping development of mosquito-borne virus offers clarity on managing risk of infections. This article was published on 2024-09-02