The University of New England and the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) have announced the appointment of Robert Banks as the Director of the university’s Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU).

Dr Phil Wright, NSW DPI’s Chief Scientific Officer, and Professor Annabelle Duncan, UNE’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, welcomed the appointment.

Dr Wright said “Dr Banks has an excellent reputation in Australia’s sheep and cattle industries as a genetic innovator. His technical and communication skills will ensure AGBU continues to be the leading group for genetic evaluation in Australia and internationally.”

Professor Duncan said AGBU has been serving Australian agriculture since 1976 as a joint venture between UNE and DPI. “It is exciting to announce the appointment of Dr Robert Banks to continue the role of applying the science of genetics to Australia’s livestock industries,” Professor Duncan said.