New applications in biotechnology are revolutionizing genetic improvement of livestock. Our research program focuses on improving efficiency of food animal production using genetics. Both cutting edge molecular and traditional quantitative techniques are employed. BEEF CATTLE PRODUCTION In beef cattle Dr. Cassady is the leader of a multidisciplinary team whose objective is to improve the quality and efficiency of beef production through improved nutrient utilization. The team members have expertise in nutrition, endocrinology, and genetics. This research is currently supported by the American Angus Foundation, the North Carolina Cattlemen's Association, the Angus Cattle Drive Endowment, and the North Carolina Agriculture Foundation PIG PRODUCTION The objective of our pig research is to develop methods to improve production efficiency through genetic selection and management. This includes improved nutrient utilization and increased sow lifetime productivity. This research is currently supported by the National Pork Board, North Carolina Pork Producers Assoociation, National Swine Genome Coordinators Office, Smithfield Premium Genetics, and the North Carolina Agriculture Foundation PIG BIOMEDICAL The objective of our biomedical research is to develop pig populations with congential defects for use as models to study these same congential defects in humans. This work is done in collaboration with Dr. Kate Ackerman at the University of Rochester, Division of Critical Care Medicine, Dept of Pediatrics and Department of Biomedical Genetics.