Hendrix Genetics is growing fast and collaborates with universities and institutes in many countries, supporting many projects. Most of the research is done by graduates, such as PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. Typically they are not very familiar with commercial breeding practices.

In turn, the R&D teams of Hendrix Genetics and international business partners in animal genetics benefit from the exchange with science as critical input for the future of animal breeding programs.

After a warm welcome by Dr Gerard Albers, Senior Director R&D of Hendrix Genetics, Thijs Hendrix, Président of Hendrix Genetics, opened the first Hendrix Genetics Academy ever. He emphasized the importance of advancing science and technology to feed an ever-growing world population with affordable animal proteins. “The key to feeding the world in a sustainable manner is in your hands,” he remarked in his opening speech.

“The Academy’s first meeting was a great opportunity for two-way sharing of information,” said Dr Abe Huisman. “Our academic guests were really inspired by seeing the applications of their research and industry R&D staff benefited from the interaction with a wide range of scientists in round table discussions, presentations and excursions. Because research is often more advanced for certain species, such as chickens, it was also a good opportunity to share information for different animals.”

“The Hendrix Genetics Academy was an eye opener for some of us young scientists,” remarked Utlwanang Moreri, Ph.D. student at the French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), who attended the first Academy event in Boxmeer.

The next Hendrix Genetics Academy meeting is scheduled for 2014.