Crossbreeding in Danish dairy herds is increasing slowly and is currently at a level of 15%. Research has shown that crossbreeding can improve health, reproduction and economy and reduce greenhouse gas emission in a dairy herd. To increase the use of crossbreeding there is a need to study these effects at the herd level in more detail and to study management aspects that are affected by crossbreeding.
A thesis could analyse alternative strategies to manage the transition period from a purebred herd to a crossbred herd. Another focus could be to analyse how to utilise crossbreeding further by specialisation of breeding, multiplier and production herds. A sub question here could be to study the consequences of production herds purchasing calving heifers versus purchasing primiparous cows. Other focus areas could be defined for a thesis on crossbreeding management.
The work will be related to the ongoing DairyCross project and the SimHerd Crossbred model will be available for the project. The project could include literature review, data analyses, herd simulation modelling and analysing of scenarios for technical and economic consequences.
To be decided in agreement with the supervisor.
Department of Animal- and Veterinary Sciences, AU Viborg - Forskningscenter Foulum, DK-8830 Tjele.
The master thesis could be any of 30, 45 or 60 ECTS.
Prerequisites: an interest in data analysis is required. The MSc-study will become part of a research team in a collaborative with an on-going project. The MSc student may be invited to co-author a scientific publication.
