Top award for UL student’s research into horse genes
Bestowed on the winner of the global competition for scientific innovation through research, it was presented during a glitzy ceremony at the Alltech Annual International Symposium which took place in the company’s home town of Lexington, Kentucky, in the US.
Speaking of her remarkable achievement, Gillian admitted the scope of her win is yet to fully register.
“I was in shock. The other projects were amazing, I really did not think my work could be of global standard.
“I was just so happy to be able to make my friends and family so proud.
“I was lucky enough to have my dad with me for this fantastic experience.
“It meant everything to me to see the pride and love on his face from the stage following the announcement.”
Entrants for the annual competition were asked to join Alltech in the pursuit of natural solutions to animal health, plant technology, environmental sciences, and biotechnology-related challenges.
Gillian’s project, entitled Comparative Genomic Identification and Characterisation of a Novel ß-Defensin Gene Cluster in the Equine Genome identified a cluster of 13 novel ß-Defensin genes which she found to be expressed along the reproductive tract of the mare and stallion.
“These genes are thought to play a pivotal role in controlling how sperm are matured in the stallion, and subsequently the way in which they interact with the reproductive tract of the mare” she said.
The Young Scientist Award brings together bright minds from colleges and universities across the globe.
Undergraduate and graduate students are asked to submit a scientific paper on an agriculture topic such as veterinary science, animal nutrition, feeding technology, agricultural management or agricultural economics.
Students can also write about environmental trends and how the agricultural industry can best utilise marketing practices.
Gillian has just completed a Bachelor of Equine Science degree, and admits she does not know what the future holds.
“I would love to continue my research.
“Seeing how well I can do at this level has given me untold confidence and pride in my work.
“Following my undergraduate degree, I am determined on pursuing a PhD position in the field of Equine Reproductive Physiology.”
