Simulation for Animal Breeding: Genetics, Biomarkers, and Disease transmission
Course description
This PhD level course provides an in-depth exploration of simulation methods applied to key areas of animal science, animal breeding and genetics. Students will learn how to simulate and analyse different types of data, ranging from production and performance traits to molecular and epidemiological data, within animal populations. The course integrates core statistical frameworks — including linear models for both univariate and longitudinal observations — with advanced simulations of breeding programmes in species such as cattle, pigs, broilers and fish.
The course also considers the simulation of complex data structures, such as biomarkers and RNA-Seq datasets, and addresses the challenges of molecular phenotyping and multi-level data integration. The final module explores behavioural and epidemiological modelling, including the use of social network data and stochastic transmission models to simulate disease dynamics and interactions between individuals.
Throughout the course, students will engage with realistic scenarios and datasets, gaining hands-on experience of contemporary tools and approaches currently used and demanded in animal breeding research and industry.
Course facts
P000172, Simulation for Animal Breeding: Genetics, Biomarkers, and Disease transmission, 1.5 Hp
Print syllabus
Syllabus
Finalized by: Fun, 2026-02-03
Valid from :
Level
Third cycle
Subject
Animal Science
Grading Scale
The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.
Course language
English
Entry Requirements
Objectives
On completion of the course, the student should be able to:
- Design and implement breeding strategy models
- Use relevant source code for data simulation
- Critically assess simulation settings and parameters
- Analyse and interpret simulation outcomes
Content
The course is carried out with lectures, computer exercises, and assignments. The computer exercises have associated assignments to be handed in. Attendance on computer exercises is not mandatory.
In addition to the assignments related to computer exercises, there is one home assignment to be handed in. The home assignment shall also be presented in an oral presentation (digitally). Attendance on the oral presentation is mandatory.
The course offers students the opportunity to work with realistic case studies and datasets, providing practical training in modern tools and methodologies that are widely applied and sought after in animal breeding research and industry.
Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course
\- Approved written assignments. \- Approved oral presentation of home assignment.
Responsible Department/Equivalent
Department of Animal Biosciences
Supplementary information
Other Information
The course is a joint effort of HBIO researchers engaged in research on diverse farmed animals.
By taking this course, students will gain the ability to adapt and reuse provided scripts to test their own hypotheses using simulated data, supporting the design and planning of future scientific projects. The course is therefore particularly valuable for those working with animals in research.