Professor Matt Littlejohn’s research for LIC has identified key genetic variants that have a significant impact on production and health in our national herd.

Over the last 25 years, LIC has made a number of discoveries about genes that affect production, fertility and survival among dairy and beef animals. Professor Littlejohn has advanced this work by applying novel techniques and one of the largest genetic screenings ever undertaken to focus on the impact of genetic variants that have an effect when an animal has two copies of them. He identified variants which increase milk production by 10% and liveweight by up to 20%, along with others that influence the incidence of disease. LIC is now able to offer testing for these variants, so that farmers can use results to improve their herds.

Professor Matt Littlejohn

Blue ribbon genes

Hill Laboratories Primary Industry Award

Professor Matt Littlejohn’s research for LIC has identified key genetic variants that have a significant impact on production and health in our national herd.

Over the last 25 years, LIC has made a number of discoveries about genes that affect production, fertility and survival among dairy and beef animals. Professor Littlejohn has advanced this work by applying novel techniques and one of the largest genetic screenings ever undertaken to focus on the impact of genetic variants that have an effect when an animal has two copies of them. He identified variants which increase milk production by 10% and liveweight by up to 20%, along with others that influence the incidence of disease. LIC is now able to offer testing for these variants, so that farmers can use results to improve their herds.