Student testimonial
A European Master’s in ABG: "With the knowledge of this programme I want to fight climate change"
Roberto Espinola Alfonso is following the European Master’s in Animal Breeding and Genetics (EMABG) in the specialisation ‘Biological and Societal Context of Breeding’. He will spend the first year of his Master at WUR, writing his first minor thesis about ‘Beef cattle international evaluation’ that will allow breeders to compare animals’ genetic value across different countries. Next year he will be at SLU in Uppsala, Sweden, to write his second thesis.
I am really proud of myself that I made it into this programme. I will not take this for granted!
“Beef production is increasing rapidly in the world. As a matter of fact, the entire livestock industry is, with the accompanying environmental impact. With the knowledge of this programme I want to fight climate change by selecting genetic indicators for lower emissions when breeding for beef production.”
What's next?
“After EMABG, I hope to work for an European breeding company with genotype population data, but I am also open to the possibility to work with the same matter in an organization or institution. Then, after a few years, I would like to return to Paraguay and incorporate all my knowledge in the breeding industry, as Paraguay is one of the largest beef exporters in the world.”
About EMABG
The EMABG is open for motivated students who would like to specialise in the field of animal breeding and genetics. This programme is offered jointly by six European universities with strong, complementary teaching and research in this domain. Students benefit from studying in two host universities, as it will give them an international experience and will enhance their network. Graduates are ready to work for breeding organizations and conduct research that fits the demands of society.