AFBI celebrates 10 years of making a difference

Today AFBI celebrated its 10 Year Anniversary with staff across AFBI sites. Since the formation of the Institute in April 2006, scientists in the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute have tackled a range of threats to the local agri-food industry. These include bluetongue, Schmallenberg, swine flu, dioxins, and ash dieback to name but a few.

AFBI researchers have provided the scientific evidence for the DARD Minister’s annual EU fish quota negotiations, the development of Marine Conservation Zones, and Northern Ireland’s successful applications for derogations from the Nitrates Directive. 

AFBI has also provided innovative online carcase benchmarking tools for improving the profitability and competitiveness of cattle, sheep and pig production. 

AFBI scientists have carried out world leading research that has resulted in the development of animal vaccines that are sold globally, and, through the application of state of the art technology and expertise, continue to verify the freedom of locally produced food from contaminants, whether destined for local consumers of export customers.

To mark the 10th anniversary of the formation of AFBI and hear more about its scientific work, Mr Colm McKenna, Chairman of the Board, invites you to an Open Day to be held at AFBI Hillsborough, Large Park, Hillsborough, County Down, BT26 6DR on Thursday 2 June 2016.

The theme of the event is “AFBI Science Making a Difference” and a particular focus will be research results that can help dairy farmers improve production efficiency at this time of poor economic return. 

There will also be an opportunity to hear a short presentation on Genomics to Improve Livestock Farming and the new Centre for Innovation in Livestock Excellence, as well as other cutting edge science AFBI is carrying out in support of the local agri-food industry.

Notes to editors: 

AFBI carries out high quality technology research and development, statutory, analytical, and diagnostic testing functions for DARD and other Government departments, public bodies and commercial companies.

AFBI's Vision is “Scientific excellence in Northern Ireland …  serving the world”.

All media enquiries to AFBI Press Office 028 9025 5326.

Share this page