BULLNET

It comprises a multi-disciplinary and inter-sectorial research programme designed to unravel the complex underlying biology of compromised fertility of individual bulls. Cutting-edge basic, applied and machine-learning approaches will be used to understand the biological regulation of sperm function and testis biology in order to optimise fertility. 

This will ensure the delivery of a robust, flexible semen product from young, appropriately reared and managed, first-season elite sires that can be used successfully for artificial insemination (AI) with predictable and consistent fertility, so as to provide the industry with key tools to meet current emissions and animal welfare demands. BullNet will also lead to the advancement of knowledge in how bull management strategies and semen processing affect the functional and molecular characteristics of sperm, thus opening scientific horizons for new applications in the area of assisted reproduction. 

The overall aim of this programme is to train a new generation of creative, entrepreneurial and innovative doctoral candidates (DCs) to the highest international standard in the area of bull fertility. BullNet will expose DCs to different sectors and they will acquire a comprehensive set of transferable skills working in the specific research area relating to their individual research projects, with an emphasis on the need for technology transfer from academic institutions to commercial users. 

Moreover, given the wide range of academic and industrial organisations involved, the DCs will be able to face current and future challenges in order to convert knowledge and ideas into products and services for economic, technological and societal benefit. This is an exciting opportunity to work with the world leaders in the area of bull fertility. While each Doctoral Candidate will be based at one of the partner institutions, they will participate in network wide training events which consist of in-person training weeks with workshops, practical sessions, seminars etc as well as online invited sessions every 3 months. All Doctoral Candidates will get an opportunity for a 3- to 6- month secondment in industry.