Building the next genomic workforce: NRSP8 workshop highlights training, AI, and collaboration
By Wellison J.S. Diniz, Auburn University
Scientists, industry leaders, and trainees gathered in Nebraska this June for a forward-looking NRSP8 Summer Workshop aimed at democratizing access to cutting-edge animal genomics and data science. Held June 6 and 7 at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, the workshop brought together 33 participants from academia, industry, and government to explore new frontiers in animal genetics, phenomics, artificial intelligence (AI), and collaborative funding strategies.
This year’s workshop was designed to be inclusive, featuring three parallel training tracks: Introductory, Intermediate, and Advanced, tailored to diverse experience levels. Sessions spanned from foundational genetics education to high-level discussions on pangenomics, AI in data integration, applications of phenomics, and pipeline development for complex datasets. NRSP8 members from several universities served as the instructors for the three training track sessions.
“This meeting filled a critical gap,” said organizers, noting the strategic timing alongside the U.S. Precision Livestock Farming conference and the central location that made the event accessible to more stakeholders.
Keynote speakers from Neogen Genomics and Illumina discussed the transformative role of industry-academic partnerships as well as the role of new technologies (e.g., single-cell omics, long-read sequencing, and genotyping by sequencing methods) in advancing genomics research. Their presence wasn’t just symbolic; they actively participated in roundtables, discussions, and networking events.
Major themes and takeaways
AI and genomics: Attendees engaged in rich dialogue on integrating AI into livestock genomics, noting both opportunities (computer vision, LLMs) and barriers (lack of trust and clarity in AI “black box” methods).
Data integration: From miRNA and isoform analysis to pangenomic and phenomic datasets, participants expressed a strong interest in developing shared pipelines and tools.
Genomics for trait discovery: A hot topic was the interaction between genetic potential and environmental management, with discussions pointing to the need for more robust environmental data and better models for resilience traits.
The event emphasized workforce development and career exposure through structured networking lunches and industry-trainee pairing. The workshop left a positive impression.
“Attendees told us they appreciated the intimate format, the hands-on sessions, and the immediate relevance of what they learned,” said the organizing team. Industry representatives echoed the sentiment.
We look forward to building on this success at the next NRSP8 workshop. We invite researchers, trainees, and industry leaders to join us in shaping the future of livestock genomics. Get more information on how to join NRSP8 at www.animalgenome.org/NRSP8
