Dr Swati Jivanji is unlocking genetic secrets to help improve the health and performance of valued livestock.
White face markings are considered a dominant genetic trait in Hereford cattle and a clear sign of Hereford parentage. However, Swati showed that epistasis – the influence of other genes – could break the rule, producing dappled faces or pigmented ‘goggles’ around the eyes, which protect against UV radiation and resultant eye cancers.
Dr. Swati Jivanji
Good spotting
Hamilton City Council Emerging Scientist Award – Finalist
Dr Swati Jivanji is unlocking genetic secrets to help improve the health and performance of valued livestock.
White face markings are considered a dominant genetic trait in Hereford cattle and a clear sign of Hereford parentage. However, Swati showed that epistasis – the influence of other genes – could break the rule, producing dappled faces or pigmented ‘goggles’ around the eyes, which protect against UV radiation and resultant eye cancers.
Her findings may lead to genetic tests to improve the welfare of Hereford and Hereford-cross dairy calves. Swati was also involved in a successful project using gene editing to lighten the coat of Holstein cattle to reduce heat stress. She is now applying her molecular genetic expertise to identify recessive variants in the New Zealand dairy population that affect animal health and/or production.
Dr Swati Jivanji is a 2023 finalist in the Hamilton City Council Emerging Scientist Award.