Katja Nilsson

Agr Dr, HBIO, Quantitative Genetics and Breeding

E-mail

My research is focused on the genetic background to behaviour and health traits in several species, for example dairy cattle, dogs and pigs.

Presentation

I completed my MSc in Animal Sciene at SLU in 1997, and then worked as a high school teacher at an agricultural high school for a year. In 2003 I defended my thesis with the title “Genetic analysis of maternal behaviour in sows” and received my PhD in Animal Breeding and Genetics. Since then I am working as a researcher and teacher at the Dept. of Animal Breeding and Genetics, SLU. I was director of studies for undergraduate education at the department 2011-2017.

Research

Examples of current research projects:
Automated recording of activity in sows in relation to lameness
Piglet survival and sow behaviour
Cross-breeding strategies in pigs to improve survival and welfare
Genetic evaluation of temperament in dogs
Genetic selection for temperament in dairy cattle