Advances in sheep production and management

Abstract

Sheep production is present in all continents and has been practiced in Brazil since its colonization. However, the production that stands out most in the world is in New Zealand, where the sheep production system is known worldwide for its high efficiency production. New techniques in genetics, breeding and nutrition are discovered and deployed daily in the country. As Brazil has a great increasing potential in the production of sheep, and has similar environmental characteristics to New Zealand, the learning of these new techniques to improved production efficiency in Brazil can be very interesting. The candidate will participate in activities undertaken Hugh Blair's research group ("Science-based extension for lower North Island sheep and beef farmers"). She will also learn new research techniques, participate conferences, courses and technical visits, discuss and analyze research results with members of Hugh Blair's research group, and prepare a report and research paper for publication. In addition, this experience will give her the opportunity to improve her English skills and will also provide a cultural and social exchange between the Universities (Unesp and Massey University). Finally, the candidate will be able to make a background analysis of the sheep production in New Zealand, with a surveying of all techniques applicable in Brazil in order to propose a methodology to increase the efficiency of sheep production in Brazil. (AU)